from an unused root probably meaning to grieve; sorrowful; Jabets, the name of an Israelite, and also of a place in Palestine; Jabez.
Transliteration:Yaʻbêts
Pronunciation:yah-bates'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` (יַעְבֵּץ) is a proper noun, functioning as both the name of an individual and a place in ancient Israel. Its etymological root is understood to derive from an unused verb that likely conveys the meaning of "to grieve" or "to cause pain." Thus, the name itself signifies "sorrowful," "he causes pain," or "painful." This inherent meaning is explicitly stated in the biblical text concerning the individual Jabez, where his mother names him thus because "I bore him in pain" [[1 Chronicles 4:9]]. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, primarily denoting this specific proper noun, but carrying with it the profound etymological weight of sorrow and pain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary and most significant occurrence of Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` is found in [[1 Chronicles 4:9-10]]. Within the extensive genealogies of the tribes of Israel, Jabez is singled out for a unique and extended narrative. The text states: "Jabez was more honorable than his brothers; and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, 'Because I bore him in pain.' Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, 'Oh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm, that it may not bring me pain!' And God granted what he asked." This passage highlights several key aspects:
1. **Etymological Link:** The direct explanation for his name links Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` to the experience of pain or sorrow in his birth.
2. **Exceptional Character:** He is described as "more honorable than his brothers," suggesting a deep piety and moral excellence that set him apart.
3. **The Prayer:** His prayer is a profound petition for divine blessing, territorial expansion, God's abiding presence ("your hand might be with me"), and protection from evil or pain. Notably, the request "that it may not bring me pain" directly echoes the meaning of his name, indicating a desire to transcend his sorrowful beginning.
4. **Divine Response:** The immediate and positive response from God—"God granted what he asked"—underscores the efficacy of his prayer and God's favor upon him.
Beyond this central narrative, Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` also appears as a place name in [[1 Chronicles 2:55]], referring to a family of scribes who lived there. This indicates that the name, likely originating from the individual, also designated a locality.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core meaning of Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` is intrinsically linked to the Hebrew root עָצַב (atsav) `{{H6087}}`, meaning "to hurt, grieve, pain," and its noun form עֶצֶב (otseb) `{{H6090}}`, meaning "pain, sorrow, toil." This is evident in his mother's explanation for his name ("I bore him in pain") and his prayer ("that it may not bring me pain"). The narrative of Jabez thus creates a powerful contrast between the sorrowful origin of his name and the abundant blessing he received. Concepts closely associated with Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` include:
* **Sorrow/Pain:** The foundational meaning.
* **Blessing:** The extraordinary divine favor granted to him.
* **Divine Presence:** His request for God's hand to be with him.
* **Protection:** His plea to be kept from harm.
* **Faith/Prayer:** His example serves as a testament to the power of sincere petition to God.
### Theological Significance
The story of Jabez, though brief, carries significant theological weight. It serves as a powerful illustration of several key biblical themes:
1. **Overcoming Adversity by Faith:** Despite being named for sorrow and pain, Jabez does not resign himself to this fate. Instead, he actively seeks God's intervention, demonstrating that one's circumstances or perceived destiny can be transformed through divine grace.
2. **The Power of Prayer:** His prayer is a model of earnest, specific, and faith-filled petition. God's immediate granting of his request highlights the efficacy of prayer and God's responsiveness to those who seek Him wholeheartedly. It underscores the truth that God delights in blessing His people.
3. **God's Transformative Power:** The narrative showcases God's ability to turn sorrow into joy, and limitation into expansion. The "honorable" status of Jabez, despite his painful beginning, points to God's ability to elevate and favor those who are devoted to Him.
4. **Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency:** While God is sovereign, the story emphasizes the role of human initiative in seeking God's blessing. Jabez's active pursuit of God's favor demonstrates a partnership where human faith and divine power converge.
5. **Grace and Merit:** Jabez is "more honorable" and receives blessing not necessarily as a result of inherent merit, but as a response to his humble and bold prayer, demonstrating God's gracious character.
### Summary
Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}`, meaning "sorrowful" or "he causes pain," is a proper noun primarily known from the narrative in [[1 Chronicles 4:9-10]]. Though named for the pain of his birth, Jabez distinguished himself as "more honorable" and is remembered for his fervent prayer to the God of Israel. His petition for blessing, enlarged territory, divine presence, and protection from pain was fully granted by God. This brief but profound account serves as a powerful biblical illustration of the transformative power of God's grace, the efficacy of sincere prayer, and God's willingness to transcend human limitations and inauspicious beginnings to bestow abundant blessing upon those who honor Him. The name Yaʻbêts `{{H3258}}` thus stands as a testament to hope and divine intervention in the face of sorrow.
TRV