### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâtsîyʼ**, represented by `{{H3329}}`, translates as **issue, i.e. offspring** or **those that came forth**. Derived from the word יָצָא, its meaning is tied to the concept of origin or emergence. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire biblical text, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3329}}` is in [[2 Chronicles 32:21]], which recounts the demise of the king of Assyria. After the LORD `{{H3068}}` sent an angel `{{H4397}}` to destroy the king's army, the disgraced monarch returned to his own land. The verse states that when he entered the house of his god, "they that came forth" `{{H3329}}` from his own body killed him with a sword `{{H2719}}`. In this context, the word points specifically to the king's own children as the agents of his death, highlighting a deeply personal and ironic end.
### Related Words & Concepts
The narrative surrounding `{{H3329}}` is enriched by several related words that define the agents and instruments of judgment:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): The ultimate authority in the account, who initiates the Assyrian king's downfall by sending `{{H7971}}` his messenger [[2 Chronicles 32:21]]. He is described as "(the) self-Existent or Eternal".
* `{{H4397}}` **mălʼâk** (angel): The direct agent of God's power, defined as "a messenger; specifically, of God". This angel was responsible for cutting off `{{H3582}}` the Assyrian commanders [[2 Chronicles 32:21]].
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall, slay): This word describes the final action taken against the king, as his own offspring "slew" him. It signifies a complete and decisive downfall [[2 Chronicles 32:21]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): The physical weapon used in the king's assassination, referred to as "a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect)". This contrasts the supernatural destruction of his army with his very physical, intimate death [[2 Chronicles 32:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3329}}` is found in its role within this story of divine judgment.
* **Ironic Judgment:** A powerful king, whose army was filled with mighty men `{{H1368}}` and captains `{{H8269}}`, was not defeated by a foreign army but by his own "offspring." This serves as a powerful illustration of pride leading to a humiliating fall.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The account demonstrates that the LORD `{{H3068}}` is in control of all events. He first uses a supernatural agent, an angel `{{H4397}}`, and then uses the king's own family to bring about a just end.
* **Betrayal from a Source of Life:** The term for "offspring" `{{H3329}}` comes from a root meaning "to come forth." The very ones who came forth from the king become the source of his death, a profound reversal of the natural order that underscores the totality of his defeat.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3329}}` is one of the rarest words in the Old Testament, its single use is impactful. It does not merely mean "children" but specifically "those that came forth," emphasizing their origin in the context of a stunning betrayal. This word marks the final, ironic blow in a narrative about the failure of human pride and the absolute sovereignty of God, showing how even the most intimate relationships can be an instrument of divine judgment.
TRV