from חָזָה and אֵל; beheld of God; Jachaziel, the name of five Israelites; Jahaziel, Jahziel.
Transliteration:Yachăzîyʼêl
Pronunciation:yakh-az-ee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name Yachăzîyʼêl (`{{H3166}}`) is a compound theophoric name, derived from two distinct elements: the verb `{{H2372}}` (chazah), meaning "to see, behold, perceive," often with a connotation of prophetic vision, and `{{H0410}}` (ʼEl), referring to God. The name's etymology thus yields meanings such as "God sees," "God beholds," or, more commonly interpreted in the passive voice, "Beheld of God" or "Seen by God." This passive interpretation suggests divine favor, attention, or selection. The semantic range encompasses not only God's omniscient sight but also His active engagement with and recognition of individuals. The root `{{H2372}}` itself carries a strong association with prophetic insight and divine revelation, implying that one "beheld of God" might also be a recipient or instrument of divine vision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yachăzîyʼêl (or its Anglicized forms, Jahaziel/Jahziel) appears in several contexts within the Old Testament, though it refers to distinct individuals:
1. **A Benjamite Warrior:** In [[1 Chronicles 12:4]], Jahaziel is listed among the mighty men who joined David at Ziklag. This context highlights loyalty and strength, suggesting a man whom God "beheld" and empowered for service to His anointed king.
2. **A Priest:** [[1 Chronicles 16:6]] mentions Jahaziel as one of the priests who ministered before the ark of the covenant when it was brought to Jerusalem. This role underscores a consecrated life, "seen by God" in a position of sacred duty and worship.
3. **A Levite Prophet:** The most significant occurrence is found in [[2 Chronicles 20:14]]. Here, Jahaziel, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, becomes the vessel through whom the Spirit of the LORD comes upon him in the midst of the assembly. He delivers a powerful prophetic message to King Jehoshaphat and all Judah, assuring them of God's intervention against the invading armies: "Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's." This instance perfectly encapsulates the name's meaning, as Jahaziel is literally "beheld of God" and chosen to convey God's vision and assurance. His name resonates with the divine sight that revealed the future victory.
4. **An Ancestor of a Returnee:** [[Ezra 8:5]] mentions Shecaniah, the son of Jahaziel, among those who returned with Ezra from Babylon. This indicates the continuity of the name within priestly or Levitical lineages, signifying God's continued oversight of His people even through generations of exile and return.
Across these occurrences, the name consistently points to individuals who, in various capacities—whether as warriors, priests, or prophets—were distinctively recognized or used by God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic components of Yachăzîyʼêl are crucial for understanding its depth:
* **`{{H2372}}` (chazah):** This root is fundamental. It signifies not merely physical sight but often a deeper, spiritual perception, particularly in the context of prophetic visions (e.g., [[Isaiah 1:1]], [[Amos 1:1]]). Thus, "beheld of God" implies a profound connection to divine revelation.
* **`{{H0410}}` (ʼEl):** This is a generic term for God, often used in personal names to indicate a relationship with or attribute of the divine (e.g., Daniel, Ezekiel, Samuel).
* **Theophoric Names:** Yachăzîyʼêl belongs to a large category of Hebrew names that include a divine element, reflecting the pervasive theological understanding that God is actively involved in human lives and history. Such names often serve as mini-confessions of faith or statements about God's character.
* **Divine Providence:** The concept inherent in "beheld of God" aligns with the broader biblical theme of divine providence—God's watchful care, guidance, and intervention in human affairs.
* **Prophecy and Revelation:** Given the prominent role of Jahaziel in [[2 Chronicles 20]], the name is intimately linked with the concepts of divine inspiration and the communication of God's will to humanity.
### Theological Significance
The name Yachăzîyʼêl carries profound theological implications. Firstly, it underscores God's omniscience and active engagement with His creation. To be "beheld of God" is to be known, seen, and cared for by the Almighty. This offers immense comfort, assuring believers that they are never outside the divine gaze.
Secondly, the name points to God's sovereign choice and empowerment. The prophet Jahaziel in 2 Chronicles is a prime example: God "beheld" him, chose him, and empowered him with His Spirit to deliver a message of hope and victory. This highlights the truth that God often selects seemingly ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary tasks, making them instruments of His divine will. The name, therefore, speaks to the concept of divine calling and anointing.
Thirdly, the prophetic dimension of the root `{{H2372}}` suggests that those "beheld of God" may be recipients of special insight or revelation. It implies a divine perspective granted to certain individuals, enabling them to "see" beyond the immediate circumstances and declare God's truth. This resonates with the broader biblical understanding of God revealing Himself and His plans to His chosen servants.
In essence, Yachăzîyʼêl is a name that beautifully encapsulates the intimate, active, and purposeful relationship between God and humanity, particularly those whom He chooses to use for His glory.
### Summary
The Hebrew name Yachăzîyʼêl (`{{H3166}}`), transliterated as Jahaziel or Jahziel, is a theophoric compound meaning "Beheld of God" or "God Sees." It is formed from the verb `{{H2372}}` (chazah, "to see, behold," often prophetically) and `{{H0410}}` (ʼEl, "God"). This name appears in the Old Testament referring to several distinct individuals, including a Benjamite warrior, a priest, and most notably, a Levite prophet in [[2 Chronicles 20:14]]. In this pivotal account, Jahaziel is divinely inspired to deliver a message of assurance and victory to King Jehoshaphat, perfectly embodying the name's meaning as one "beheld of God" and empowered to convey divine revelation. The name's theological significance lies in its emphasis on God's active omniscience, His sovereign choice and empowerment of individuals, and the concept of divine revelation and providence. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's watchful care and His purposeful engagement with His people throughout history.
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