The Hebrew word Yitschar, represented by H3328, means he will shine. It is the name of an Israelite and is noted as a marginal reading for Zehoar. According to usage statistics, it appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making it a highly specific reference within the biblical text.
The single appearance of H3328 is in a genealogical listing in the book of Chronicles. The verse states, "And the sons of Helah were, Zereth, and Jezoar, and Ethnan" 1 Chronicles 4:7. In this context, the name is used to identify one of the sons of Helah. The text pairs it with H6714, indicating that Jezoar is an alternate name or rendering for Zohar, thereby preserving a specific individual's identity within the ancestral records of Israel.
Several related words appear in the same verse, establishing the genealogical context:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is fundamental to the passage, which begins by listing the "sons" of Helah 1 Chronicles 4:7. It establishes the familial and tribal lineage being recorded.
- H6714 Tsôchar (whiteness; Tsochar... Zohar): This word is presented alongside H3328 as a dual reference for the same individual. It is used elsewhere as the name of a son of Simeon Genesis 46:10 and a Hittite Genesis 23:8.
- H6889 Tsereth (splendor; Tsereth, an Israelite; Zereth): This is the name of another son of Helah, listed as a brother to Yitschar 1 Chronicles 4:7.
- H869 ʼEthnan (Ethnan, an Israelite; Ethnan): This is the name of the third brother listed in the same genealogy 1 Chronicles 4:7.
The theological weight of H3328 is derived from its context within a genealogy and the meaning of related terms.
- Preservation of Lineage: Its sole use in a genealogical record 1 Chronicles 4:7 underscores the biblical importance of maintaining ancestral lines, which are foundational to covenant history.
- Identity through "Sonship": Yitschar is identified as a "son" H1121. The concept of sonship is theologically significant, connecting individuals to the larger family of the "sons of Jacob," who are the object of God's unchanging covenant Malachi 3:6.
- Individual in Community: The listing of Yitschar alongside his brothers Zereth and Ethnan places him firmly within a family unit, reflecting the community-oriented nature of Israelite identity.
In summary, H3328 is a proper name, Yitschar, that appears once in scripture. Its primary function is to identify a specific individual in the genealogy of Helah 1 Chronicles 4:7, where it is also presented as an alternate name for Zohar. While the name itself is rare, its context highlights the vital role of genealogies in preserving the identity, lineage, and covenantal heritage of the people of Israel.
TRV