יֵצֶר

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew name Yêtser, represented by H3337, identifies Jezer, an Israelite. The name appears 3 times in 3 unique verses. Its sole function in scripture is to name a specific individual in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H3337 is used exclusively to identify Jezer as one of the sons H1121 of Naphtali H5321. He is first listed in the genealogy of Jacob's family entering Egypt Genesis 46:24. The record in 1 Chronicles reiterates this lineage, adding that he and his brothers were the "sons of Bilhah" H1090 1 Chronicles 7:13. Later, in the census recorded in Numbers, Jezer is recognized as the founder of a clan, as the text states, "Of Jezer, the family H4940 of the Jezerites" Numbers 26:49.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words clarify Jezer's position within the tribal structure:

• H5321 Naphtâlîy (Naphtali): This is the name of Jezer's father, a son of Jacob from whom one of the twelve tribes is descended Genesis 46:24.
• H1090 Bilhâh (Bilhah): Identified as the mother of Jezer and his brothers, she was one of Jacob's concubines 1 Chronicles 7:13.
• H3340 Yitsrîy (Jezerites): This term identifies the "descendants of Jetser," who formed the family H4940 of the Jezerites, a recognized clan within the tribe of Naphtali Numbers 26:49.

Theological Significance

The significance of H3337 is purely genealogical, securing a place within Israel's tribal identity.

• Tribal Lineage: Jezer is documented as a son of Naphtali H5321, anchoring his lineage directly to one of the twelve patriarchs Genesis 46:24.
• Clan Founder: His name serves as the basis for the Jezerites H3340, a distinct family H4940 counted in the census of Israel, demonstrating his role as a progenitor Numbers 26:49.
• Matriarchal Connection: The mention of his mother, Bilhah H1090, in 1 Chronicles connects his line to the specific family dynamics of the patriarch Jacob 1 Chronicles 7:13.

Summary

In summary, Yêtser H3337 is a proper name, Jezer, whose importance is tied to the genealogical framework of ancient Israel. As a son of Naphtali H5321 and a grandson of Jacob through Bilhah H1090, he represents a key link in his tribe's lineage. His lasting significance is marked by the founding of the Jezerites H3340, a family H4940 that constituted part of the nation.