from יָסַד; a foundation (figuratively, i.e. beginning); [idiom] began.
Transliteration:yᵉçud
Pronunciation:yes-ood'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) is derived from the verbal root yāsaḏ (`{{H3245}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to found," "to lay a foundation," or "to establish." Consequently, yᵉçud inherently signifies a "foundation," "base," or "beginning." It can refer to the literal substructure of a building, providing stability and support. Figuratively, it denotes the initial point, the origin, or the underlying principle upon which something is constructed or established. The base definition also notes an idiomatic usage, "began," indicating the commencement or initiation of an action or process, though this sense is often implicit in the idea of laying a foundation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) appears infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are highly significant, primarily in architectural and cultic contexts.
* In [[1 Kings 7:10]], yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) refers to the massive "foundation stones" laid for Solomon's Temple. The text specifies their impressive size, emphasizing the grandeur and solidity of the sacred edifice. This usage highlights the literal, structural aspect of a foundation, essential for the stability and permanence of a building.
* Similarly, in [[Ezra 3:11]], yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) describes the "laying of the foundation" for the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the return from exile. This act was met with great rejoicing and praise, signifying a momentous new beginning for the community and the re-establishment of the house of the Lord. Here, yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) not only denotes the physical base but also carries the symbolic weight of restoration, hope, and the re-initiation of corporate worship.
In both instances, yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) is inextricably linked to the Temple, God's dwelling place, underscoring its sacred and enduring nature. While the idiomatic sense "began" is not explicitly a verb here, the act of laying a foundation is inherently the *beginning* of construction, thus aligning with the broader semantic range.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) is enriched by its relationship to other Hebrew terms:
* **yāsaḏ (`{{H3245}}`):** The root verb from which yᵉçud is derived. Yāsaḏ means "to found," "to establish," "to ordain," or "to lay a foundation." It is frequently used to describe God's act of founding the earth (e.g., [[Psalm 104:5]], [[Proverbs 3:19]]) or His establishing of covenants and institutions.
* **mûsāḏ (`{{H4143}}`):** Another noun derived from yāsaḏ, also meaning "foundation," "base," or "what is founded." It often appears in similar contexts to yᵉçud, referring to the foundations of buildings, walls, or even the earth.
* **'eḇen (`{{H68}}`):** "Stone," often used in conjunction with foundation terms, as in "foundation stone" (e.g., [[Job 38:6]]).
* **bānāh (`{{H1129}}`):** "To build," a verb that naturally follows the laying of a foundation.
These related terms collectively paint a picture of stability, establishment, and divine ordering, whether in creation or in the construction of sacred spaces.
### Theological Significance
The concept of "foundation" inherent in yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) holds profound theological significance:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Creation:** God is consistently portrayed as the ultimate Founder. He "laid the foundations" of the earth (e.g., [[Job 38:4-6]], [[Psalm 104:5]]), signifying His absolute sovereignty, creative power, and the stability of His cosmic order. This establishes Him as the primary initiator and sustainer of all existence.
* **The Temple as God's Established Presence:** The explicit use of yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) for the Temple's foundation underscores the importance of this sacred structure as the established dwelling place of God among His people. The solidity of its foundation points to the permanence and reliability of God's presence and covenant faithfulness. The laying of the foundation represents a divine initiative to restore fellowship and worship.
* **Spiritual Foundations:** While yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) itself is used literally, the theological concept extends to spiritual realities. The New Testament builds upon this imagery, portraying Jesus Christ as the "chief cornerstone" or "foundation" of the church (e.g., [[Ephesians 2:20]], [[1 Corinthians 3:11]]). This signifies that all spiritual building, growth, and endurance rest upon His person and work. Righteousness, truth, and faith are also spoken of as having "foundations" (e.g., [[Psalm 11:3]]), implying that they are divinely established and immutable principles.
* **Beginning of Redemptive History:** The sense of "beginning" inherent in yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) resonates with God's ongoing work of initiating and establishing His redemptive plan throughout history, from creation to the establishment of His kingdom.
### Summary
Yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) is a significant Hebrew noun, derived from yāsaḏ (`{{H3245}}`), denoting a "foundation" or "beginning." Though rare in biblical occurrences, its usage is concentrated in contexts of monumental importance, specifically referring to the literal foundations of Solomon's Temple and the Second Temple (e.g., [[1 Kings 7:10]], [[Ezra 3:11]]). These instances highlight the physical stability and the symbolic "beginning" or re-establishment of God's sacred dwelling. Theologically, yᵉçud (`{{H3246}}`) and its related concepts underscore God's role as the supreme Founder and Establisher of creation, His covenant, and His presence among humanity. It serves as a powerful reminder of the stable, reliable, and divinely initiated basis upon which all things, both physical and spiritual, ultimately rest.
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