### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3155}}` (Yizrâch) is identified as a variation of `{{H2296}}` ('Ezrachi), which denotes a "Zerahite" or "Ezrahite." Fundamentally, it signifies a descendant of Zerach (or Zerah), one of the twin sons born to Judah by Tamar, as recorded in [[Genesis 38:30]] and [[Genesis 46:12]]. Therefore, `{{H3155}}` functions as a clan or tribal designation, indicating a specific lineage within the tribe of Judah. The root of Zerach (`{{H2226}}`) is related to the verb `{{H2224}}` (zarach), meaning "to shine" or "to rise" (as the sun), imbuing the ancestral name with a sense of dawning or radiance, though the primary semantic range of `{{H3155}}` is strictly genealogical and relational.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3155}}` (Yizrâch) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 27:8]]. In this passage, it identifies Sibbecai the Hushathite as being "of the Izrahites" (or "Zerahites" in many translations). The context is a detailed enumeration of the commanders of King David's monthly divisions of the army. Sibbecai is listed as the commander for the eighth month, leading a division of twenty-four thousand men.
This solitary occurrence underscores the meticulous nature of the biblical record, particularly concerning genealogies and administrative structures in ancient Israel. The inclusion of Sibbecai's specific lineage, even in a military roster, highlights the enduring importance of tribal and clan identity within Israelite society. It demonstrates how individuals were not merely identified by their personal name and role, but also by their ancestral connections, which often determined their status, inheritance, and even their place in the national administration or military.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related term to `{{H3155}}` is `{{H2296}}` ('Ezrachi), explicitly stated in its base definition as the primary form from which `{{H3155}}` is a variation. Both terms refer to descendants of Zerach.
Further related concepts include:
* **`{{H2226}}` (Zerach):** The progenitor of the clan, a son of Judah, whose descendants are identified by these terms.
* **`{{H2224}}` (zarach):** The verbal root "to shine" or "to rise," from which the name Zerach derives, suggesting a connection to light or dawn.
* **Genealogy and Lineage:** The broader biblical emphasis on tracing family lines, which was crucial for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, priestly succession, and ultimately, the messianic lineage (e.g., [[Matthew 1:1-17]], [[Luke 3:23-38]]).
* **Tribal Structure:** The organization of Israel into twelve tribes and their respective clans, which formed the bedrock of their social, political, and religious life. The identification of individuals by their tribal affiliation, as seen with Sibbecai, reflects this fundamental aspect of Israelite society.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H3155}}` itself is a purely genealogical descriptor and does not carry overt theological weight, its presence within the biblical text contributes to several important theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the divine meticulousness in the ordering and preservation of Israel's history and people. The detailed record-keeping, even for seemingly minor figures like Sibbecai, reflects a divine purpose in maintaining the integrity of the covenant nation.
Secondly, as a term linked to the tribe of Judah, it subtly connects to the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan. The tribe of Judah was divinely chosen as the royal tribe, from which kings would emerge (e.g., [[Genesis 49:10]]) and ultimately the Messiah. Thus, the preservation of Judah's lineage, including its sub-clans like the Zerahites, is indirectly significant for the unfolding of salvation history.
Finally, the very existence of such precise genealogical terms highlights God's work through specific individuals and families. It demonstrates that every person, within their given lineage and role, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's providential ordering of His people and the world.
### Summary
`{{H3155}}` (Yizrâch) is a rare Hebrew term, appearing once in [[1 Chronicles 27:8]], identifying an "Izrahite" or "Zerahite" as a descendant of Zerach, son of Judah. It functions as a genealogical variant of `{{H2296}}` ('Ezrachi). Its sole occurrence in a military roster highlights the meticulous record-keeping and profound importance of lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Theologically, while not bearing direct doctrinal weight, `{{H3155}}` contributes to the biblical emphasis on divine order, the preservation of Israel's history, and the significance of specific family lines within God's unfolding covenant plan, particularly within the tribe of Judah, from which the Messiah would ultimately come.
TRV