from יָעָה and אֵל; carried away of God; Jeiel, the name of six Israelites; Jeiel, Jehiel. Compare יְעוּאֵל.
Transliteration:Yᵉʻîyʼêl
Pronunciation:yeh-ee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun יְעִיאֵל (Yᵉʻîyʼêl), Strong's number `{{H3273}}`, is a theophoric name derived from two components: the verb יָעָה (ya'ah) and the divine name אֵל (El), meaning "God." The root יָעָה carries the primary sense of "to sweep away," "to gather," or "to bear/carry." When combined with אֵל in a personal name, the connotation is overwhelmingly positive, signifying divine action and providence. Therefore, יְעִיאֵל is best understood as "carried away of God," "borne by God," or "gathered by God." This implies a sense of divine care, sustenance, protection, or perhaps being divinely appointed or directed. The name itself serves as a theological statement, attributing the individual's existence, purpose, or fate to the active involvement of the Almighty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Jeiel (or occasionally Jehiel, as noted in some contexts) appears several times in the Old Testament, borne by various individuals, highlighting its prevalence and the theological significance embedded within it.
1. **A Gadite Chief:** In [[1 Chronicles 5:7]], Jeiel is listed among the chiefs of the tribe of Gad, dwelling in Bashan. This brief mention places him within the tribal genealogies, indicating a position of leadership or prominence within his clan.
2. **An Ancestor in Gibeon:** Jeiel is identified as the "father" (ancestor) of Gibeon, and his wife's name was Maacah ([[1 Chronicles 9:35]], compare [[1 Chronicles 8:29]]). His descendants are noted for dwelling in Gibeon and Jerusalem. This Jeiel appears to be a significant patriarchal figure, foundational to a prominent lineage.
3. **Levitical Musicians and Gatekeepers:** During King David's reign, a Levite named Jeiel served as a musician "with harps tuned to Alamoth" and a gatekeeper during the solemn procession of bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem ([[1 Chronicles 15:18]], [[1 Chronicles 15:21]]). His role underscores the importance of music and order in Israelite worship, suggesting a divinely appointed service.
4. **Ancestor of a Prophet:** In [[2 Chronicles 20:14]], Jeiel is mentioned as an ancestor of Jahaziel, the Levite through whom the Spirit of the Lord came to prophesy victory to King Jehoshaphat. While not directly prophesying himself, his inclusion in this lineage connects him to a significant moment of divine revelation and assurance.
5. **A Scribe under Uzziah:** Jeiel served as a scribe under King Uzziah, responsible for numbering and organizing the king's army ([[2 Chronicles 26:11]]). This administrative role highlights his competence and trust placed in him by the monarchy, perhaps seen as divinely enabled.
6. **Post-Exilic Returnees:**
* In [[Ezra 8:13]], Jeiel is listed as a chief of the sons of Adonikam, who returned with Ezra from exile. This indicates his participation in the crucial restoration period, suggesting a commitment to rebuilding the community of faith.
* Tragically, another Jeiel is mentioned among those who had married foreign wives during the post-exilic period, necessitating repentance and separation ([[Ezra 10:43]]). This instance serves as a sober reminder of human fallibility even among those bearing names with profound theological meaning.
Across these various individuals, the name Jeiel appears to be associated with roles of leadership, service, and participation in significant historical and religious events, often implying a divine hand in their lives or appointments.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of יְעִיאֵל (Yᵉʻîyʼêl) is enriched by understanding its constituent parts and related terms:
* **יָעָה (ya'ah):** The verbal root from which the first part of the name derives. While it can mean "to sweep away" (often in judgment), in the context of a personal name combined with "El," it almost invariably takes on a positive sense, such as "to bear," "to sustain," "to gather," or "to carry along." This nuance of divine carrying or bearing is central to the name's meaning.
* **אֵל (El):** This is the common Semitic word for "God" and is a foundational component of many Hebrew names (e.g., Israel, Samuel, Daniel, Elijah). Its presence signifies that the name is a theophoric name, explicitly declaring a relationship with or characteristic of God.
* **יְעוּאֵל (Yᵉʻûwʼêl, `{{H3272}}`):** This is a closely related name, often considered a variant or cognate, with a very similar meaning: "borne away by God." The slight variation in the middle vowel points to a strong semantic connection and potential interchangeability in ancient usage or scribal tradition.
* **Theophoric Names:** Jeiel belongs to a vast category of biblical names that incorporate divine elements. These names are not merely labels but often function as miniature confessions of faith, prayers, or declarations about God's character and His interaction with humanity. They reflect the worldview of the parents or community, acknowledging God's sovereignty and presence.
* **Divine Providence:** The core meaning of "borne by God" or "carried away of God" directly relates to the theological concept of divine providence – God's active, continuous care and governance over all creation and specifically over the lives of His people.
### Theological Significance
The name יְעִיאֵל (Yᵉʻîyʼêl) carries profound theological weight, encapsulating several key biblical truths:
1. **God's Active Providence:** The most direct theological implication is God's unwavering involvement in the lives of individuals. "Borne by God" speaks to His sustaining power, His guidance, and His protective hand. It suggests that the bearer of the name is not left to chance but is under divine care and direction. This provides comfort and assurance that God is intimately concerned with His creation.
2. **Divine Calling and Purpose:** For those named Jeiel who served in significant roles (Levitical musicians, scribes, tribal leaders), the name resonates with a sense of being divinely chosen or appointed for specific tasks. Their lives, in a sense, were "carried along" by God's purpose, fulfilling His will within the community of Israel.
3. **God as Sustainer and Upholder:** The nuance of "borne by God" emphasizes God as the one who supports, carries, and upholds His people, particularly through challenges. This resonates with broader biblical themes of God as a refuge, strength, and ever-present help.
4. **A Confession of Dependence:** To bear such a name is, in essence, a public declaration of dependence upon God. It acknowledges that one's life, destiny, and blessings originate from and are sustained by divine action, rather than human strength or merit.
### Summary
The Hebrew name יְעִיאֵל (Yᵉʻîyʼêl, `{{H3273}}`) is a rich theophoric name meaning "carried away of God" or "borne by God." Its etymology from יָעָה (to carry/gather) and אֵל (God) points to a profound theological truth about divine providence. Occurring multiple times in the Old Testament, Jeiel is the name of various individuals, including tribal leaders, Levites, scribes, and those involved in the post-exilic restoration. Their diverse roles often suggest a divine hand in their lives and appointments. The name underscores the biblical concept of God's active involvement, His sustaining care, and His specific calling upon individuals. It serves as a miniature theological statement, reminding the bearer and the community of God's sovereign presence and gracious upholding of His people.
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