### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yᵉmîynîy**, represented by `{{H3227}}`, is an adjective derived from the word for "right hand," specifically meaning **right** or **(on the) right (hand)**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its function is to designate something as being located on the right side, a position often associated with prominence or significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H3227}}` are highly specific. In the construction of Solomon's temple, it is used to identify the pillar on the **right hand** side, which was named Jachin [[2 Chronicles 3:17]]. Its other appearance is in the book of Ezekiel, where the prophet is commanded to lie on his **right** side as a symbolic act to bear the iniquity of the house of Judah for a period of forty days [[Ezekiel 4:6]]. In both instances, the word adds a precise directional detail to a significant object or action.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of "right" and its opposite:
* `{{H3225}}` **yâmîyn** (the right hand or side): This is the root noun from which `{{H3227}}` is derived. It often signifies a place of honor or strength, as when God promises to uphold his people with the **right hand** of his righteousness [[Isaiah 41:10]].
* `{{H3233}}` **yᵉmânîy** (right; (on the) right (hand)): An almost identical term that is used alongside `{{H3227}}` in both of its scriptural occurrences ([[2 Chronicles 3:17]], [[Ezekiel 4:6]]). It is also used in Levitical law to specify the **right** ear, hand, and foot for anointing [[Leviticus 14:14]].
* `{{H8040}}` **sᵉmôʼwl** (the left hand): The direct opposite of **yâmîyn**, providing a necessary contrast. It is often paired with the right hand to denote totality or encompassing direction, such as not turning "to the right hand or to the left" [[Joshua 1:7]].
* `{{H8042}}` **sᵉmâʼlîy** (situated on the left side): This adjective is the direct counterpart to `{{H3227}}` and is used to name the pillar on the **left**, Boaz, in the temple [[2 Chronicles 3:17]].
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end, be finished, perish): This verb appears in the command to Ezekiel, indicating when he has **accomplished** the days of lying on one side before turning to the other [[Ezekiel 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing infrequently, the theological weight of `{{H3227}}` is derived from its association with the concept of the "right side" in scripture.
* **Symbolic Action:** Its use in Ezekiel's prophecy demonstrates that physical direction can carry deep spiritual meaning. Lying on the **right** side was a specific prophetic act tied directly to the fate of Judah [[Ezekiel 4:6]].
* **Positional Prominence:** The placement of the pillar Jachin on the **right hand** of the temple entrance highlights the importance of this position in sacred architecture [[2 Chronicles 3:17]]. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of the right hand as a place of honor and strength [[Psalms 110:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3227}}` **yᵉmîynîy** is a precise adjective used to denote the "right" side. Though rare, its applications in scripture are significant, marking a pillar of the temple and a key element of a prophetic sign. It contributes to the wider biblical understanding of the right side as a position of distinction, honor, and symbolic importance.
TRV