### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun יַעֲקֹבָה (Yaʻăqôbâh), Strong's number `{{H3291}}`, is derived directly from the more prominent name יַעֲקֹב (Yaʻăqôb), Strong's number `{{H3290}}`, which is Jacob. The root of Jacob, עָקַב (aqab), carries the primary meaning "to seize by the heel," "to supplant," or "to circumvent." Thus, Yaʻăqôbâh inherently carries the semantic resonance of its root, suggesting a connection to the patriarch Jacob, whether through lineage, character, or a symbolic link to the foundational narrative of Israel. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to the identity of the individual it designates, but its etymological roots imbue it with a rich, albeit indirect, associative meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yaʻăqôbâh appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the genealogical records of the book of 1 Chronicles:
* **[[1 Chronicles 7:2]]**: "The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their fathers' houses, namely, of Tola, mighty men of valor in their generations; their number in the days of David was twenty-two thousand six hundred." (Note: Yaʻăqôbâh is listed as a son of Tola, son of Issachar, in the preceding verse, but the verse cited here gives the context of Tola's descendants.)
In this sole occurrence, Yaʻăqôbâh is listed as one of the six sons of Tola, who was a son of Issachar, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel). The context is purely genealogical, part of the extensive lists compiled by the Chronicler to establish the lineage and tribal organization of Israel. These genealogies served to affirm national identity, land inheritance, and the continuity of God's covenant people. The brevity of the mention provides no further details about Yaʻăqôbâh's life, actions, or specific role beyond being a link in the tribal lineage of Issachar.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is, unequivocally, יַעֲקֹב (Yaʻăqôb), Strong's number `{{H3290}}`, the patriarch Jacob, whose name was later changed to Israel (`{{H3478}}`). This direct etymological link means that Yaʻăqôbâh is intrinsically tied to the foundational narrative of the nation of Israel. Concepts related to this name include:
* **Genealogy**: The primary context of Yaʻăqôbâh's appearance underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage, tribal identity, and the meticulous preservation of family records, particularly within the post-exilic period when the Chronicler's work was compiled.
* **Covenant Identity**: Being named after Jacob, or having a name derived from him, subtly reinforces the individual's connection to the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and thus their place within the chosen people of God.
* **Tribal Structure**: The mention of Yaʻăqôbâh within the tribe of Issachar highlights the organized and distinct tribal divisions that formed the social and religious fabric of ancient Israel.
### Theological Significance
While Yaʻăqôbâh himself is a minor figure, his inclusion in the biblical record, however brief, carries a quiet theological significance. The Chronicler's extensive genealogies, of which Yaʻăqôbâh is a part, serve several theological purposes:
* **God's Faithfulness to Covenant**: The meticulous preservation of lineages demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, particularly those concerning the multiplication of Abraham's descendants and the establishment of a people for Himself. Even obscure names like Yaʻăqôbâh attest to the continuity of the covenant line.
* **Identity of Israel**: These lists reinforce the identity of the returning exiles as the true descendants of the patriarchs and the legitimate heirs of the land and the covenant. Each name, including Yaʻăqôbâh, contributes to the grand tapestry of God's chosen people.
* **Divine Providence in History**: The very existence of these detailed records, spanning generations, speaks to a divine hand overseeing the flow of history and ensuring the preservation of the lineage through whom the Messiah would eventually come. Yaʻăqôbâh, as a descendant of Jacob, is part of this larger providential plan.
### Summary
The name יַעֲקֹבָה (Yaʻăqôbâh), Strong's number `{{H3291}}`, is a proper noun derived from the name of the patriarch Jacob (`{{H3290}}`). It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 7:2]], as one of the sons of Tola, a descendant of Issachar. Despite its singular and brief occurrence within a genealogical list, Yaʻăqôbâh's inclusion is significant. It underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage and tribal identity, linking the individual to the broader narrative of God's covenant people. The etymological connection to Jacob subtly reinforces the individual's place within the historical and theological continuity of Israel, reflecting God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen line throughout generations.
TRV