### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yaʻbêts** `{{H3258}}` is defined as **sorrowful** and is the name of both an Israelite and a place in Palestine. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses. The name is derived from an unused root that probably means to grieve, tying it directly to the concept of pain or sorrow.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Yaʻbêts** is introduced as an individual who was more **honourable** `{{H3513}}` than his **brethren** `{{H251}}` [[1 Chronicles 4:9]]. His **mother** `{{H517}}` gave him the **name** `{{H8034}}` **Jabez** because she **bare** `{{H3205}}` him with **sorrow** `{{H6090}}`. His story is defined by his famous prayer where he **called** `{{H7121}}` on the **God** `{{H430}}` of **Israel** `{{H3478}}`, asking to be kept from **evil** `{{H7451}}` so that it would not **grieve** `{{H6087}}` him, a direct reference to his name's meaning. The Bible records that God **granted** `{{H935}}` his request [[1 Chronicles 4:10]]. The name is also used for a place where **families** `{{H4940}}` of **scribes** `{{H5608}}` **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:55]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of the story of Jabez:
* `{{H6090}}` **ʻôtseb** (sorrow): This word is the explicit reason his mother gave him his name, as she bore him with **sorrow** [[1 Chronicles 4:9]].
* `{{H3513}}` **kâbad** (honourable): This word, which can mean to be heavy or rich, describes Jabez as being more **honourable** than his brethren, creating a stark contrast with his sorrowful name [[1 Chronicles 4:9]].
* `{{H1288}}` **bârak** (to bless): This is the central verb in the prayer of Jabez, who asks God to **bless** him indeed [[1 Chronicles 4:10]]. It signifies receiving a divine benefit.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3258}}` is significant, highlighting several key principles.
* **Transcending Origins:** Jabez’s life demonstrates that a person's beginning does not have to determine their destiny. Though named for **sorrow** `{{H6090}}`, he became more **honourable** `{{H3513}}` than his family [[1 Chronicles 4:9]].
* **Efficacy of Prayer:** The brief account focuses on his direct appeal to God. Jabez **called** `{{H7121}}` upon God, and the narrative explicitly states that God **granted** `{{H935}}` what he **requested** `{{H7592}}`, showing the power of a faithful request [[1 Chronicles 4:10]].
* **Dependence on God:** The prayer of Jabez is a model of dependence on God for blessing, expanded territory, divine presence ("thine **hand** `{{H3027}}` might be with me"), and protection from evil, showing that true prosperity and security come from God.
### Summary
In summary, **Yaʻbêts** `{{H3258}}` signifies much more than its sorrowful definition. It represents a person and a place associated with a pivotal prayer. The story of the man Jabez is a powerful account of overcoming a painful beginning to become **honourable** and receive God's blessing. His life illustrates that faith, expressed through direct prayer, can redefine one's circumstances and serves as a testament to God's willingness to hear and respond to His people.
TRV