### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yizrᵉʻêʼlîy**, represented by `{{H3158}}`, is a patronymic term meaning a **Jizreelite or native of Jizreel**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. This identifier is exclusively used to describe a single individual within a significant narrative, tying his identity directly to his place of origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3158}}` is used to identify **Naboth** the **Jezreelite**. The story revolves around his **vineyard** `{{H3754}}` located in **Jezreel** `{{H3157}}` next to the palace of King Ahab [[1 Kings 21:1]]. When Ahab attempts to acquire the land, Naboth refuses, stating, "I will not **give** `{{H5414}}` thee the **inheritance** `{{H5159}}` of my fathers" ([[1 Kings 21:4]], [[1 Kings 21:6]]). This refusal leads Ahab's wife, Jezebel, to orchestrate Naboth's death ([[1 Kings 21:7]], [[1 Kings 21:15]]). Subsequently, Ahab moves to **take possession** `{{H3423}}` of the vineyard, an act for which divine judgment is pronounced upon his house ([[1 Kings 21:16]], [[2 Kings 9:25]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to the account of the **Jezreelite**:
* `{{H5022}}` **Nâbôwth** (Naboth): This is the name of the Israelite identified as the **Jezreelite**. The entire narrative centers on his refusal to give his vineyard to King Ahab [[1 Kings 21:1]].
* `{{H3157}}` **Yizrᵉʻêʼl** (Jezreel): Meaning "God will sow," this is the name of the place from which the **Jezreelite** comes. The vineyard was located in Jezreel [[1 Kings 21:1]], and the city later becomes the site of judgment against Ahab's house [[2 Kings 10:11]].
* `{{H3754}}` **kerem** (vineyard): This word denotes a garden or **vineyard**. Ahab's desire for Naboth's **vineyard** is the catalyst for the entire series of events ([[1 Kings 21:2]], [[1 Kings 21:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The story of the **Jezreelite** carries significant theological weight, illustrating key principles of Israelite faith and law.
* **Sanctity of Inheritance:** Naboth's refusal is rooted in the concept of **nachălâh** `{{H5159}}`, or **heritage**. His land was not merely a personal possession to be sold for **money** `{{H3701}}`, but a sacred **inheritance** `{{H5159}}` from his **fathers** `{{H1}}`, tied to God's covenant with Israel [[1 Kings 21:3]].
* **Abuse of Royal Power:** The actions of Ahab `{{H256}}` and Jezebel demonstrate a flagrant disregard for justice. They use their authority to kill `{{H4191}}` an innocent man and **take possession** `{{H3423}}` of his property, which brings a divine "burden" upon them [[2 Kings 9:25]].
* **Consequences of Covetousness:** The narrative is a stark warning against coveting and the act of refusal `{{H3985}}`. Ahab's displeasure over not getting the vineyard leads to murder and, ultimately, the prophesied destruction of his dynasty ([[1 Kings 21:4]], [[1 Kings 21:19]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3158}}` **Yizrᵉʻêʼlîy** is more than a simple descriptor of origin. It is inextricably linked to the person of Naboth and his tragic story. The term anchors a powerful biblical account of faith, greed, and divine justice, demonstrating how one man's faithfulness to his ancestral **heritage** `{{H5159}}` exposed the corruption of a king and set in motion a chain of events that fulfilled God's judgment.
TRV