from יָצַר; formative; Jitsri, an Israelite; Isri.
Transliteration:Yitsrîy
Pronunciation:yits-ree'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3339}}` (Yitsrîy) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates its derivation from the verb `{{H3335}}` (yatsar), meaning "to form, fashion, frame, or make." Therefore, the name Yitsrîy carries the semantic implication of "formative," "my formation," or "he forms." While the word itself designates an individual, its root connects it deeply to the concept of divine craftsmanship and creation. In its usage as a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific person, but the etymological link to `{{H3335}}` imbues the name with a profound underlying meaning related to being divinely shaped or purposed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H3339}}` appears in the Hebrew Bible exclusively as the name of a Levitical musician. Its sole occurrence is found in the book of Chronicles:
* In [[1 Chronicles 25:11]], "Jitsri" (or "Isri" in some translations) is listed as the eighth son of Heman, one of the three principal Levitical choirmasters appointed by King David to minister before the ark of God and lead the temple music. Heman himself was a grandson of the prophet Samuel.
The context of [[1 Chronicles 25]] details the meticulous organization of the temple service, particularly the divisions of the musicians. Jitsri, as a head of one of the twenty-four divisions, was responsible for leading a group of twelve musicians, including his sons and brothers, in their assigned duties of praising God with instruments and song in the house of the Lord. This passage highlights the structured and dedicated nature of worship in ancient Israel, emphasizing the specific roles assigned to various Levitical families.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the root verb `{{H3335}}` (yatsar), "to form, fashion, create." This verb is frequently used to describe God's creative activity, such as His formation of humanity from dust ([[Genesis 2:7]]), the shaping of the earth ([[Isaiah 45:18]]), or the formation of the human spirit ([[Zechariah 12:1]]).
Another closely related noun derived from the same root is `{{H3336}}` (yetser), which refers to "form, purpose, or inclination," often used in the context of the "inclination of the heart" or "imagination" ([[Genesis 6:5]]; [[Deuteronomy 31:21]]).
The concepts evoked by `{{H3339}}` and its root include divine creation, craftsmanship, intentional design, purpose, and the sovereign will of God in shaping individuals and their roles within His plan, particularly in the sphere of worship and service.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H3339}}` is merely a proper name, its etymological connection to `{{H3335}}` (yatsar) carries profound theological weight. The name "Yitsrîy" can be understood as "my formation" or "he forms," subtly pointing to the individual's identity and purpose being rooted in divine creation. In the context of Jitsri's role as a temple musician ([[1 Chronicles 25:11]]), his name serves as a quiet theological statement: his very existence and his specific function in leading worship were not accidental but divinely formed and purposed.
This underscores the broader biblical theme of God as the ultimate "Former" or "Potter" ([[Isaiah 64:8]]; [[Jeremiah 18:6]]), who shapes and molds His people for His glory and service. Jitsri's name, therefore, implicitly affirms God's sovereignty over individual lives and His meticulous design in establishing the order and beauty of worship. It suggests that those who serve God are not merely performing tasks but are living out the very purpose for which they were divinely fashioned.
### Summary
`{{H3339}}` (Yitsrîy) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "formative" or "my formation," derived from the verb `{{H3335}}` (yatsar), "to form, fashion." It appears once in the Bible, identifying Jitsri, a son of Heman, who served as a head of one of the twenty-four divisions of Levitical musicians in the temple during King David's reign ([[1 Chronicles 25:11]]). The theological significance of the name lies in its etymological root, which highlights God as the divine Former and Creator. Jitsri's name implicitly suggests that his life and his specific role in leading temple worship were divinely shaped and purposed, serving as a reminder of God's sovereign design over individuals and their service within His divine economy.
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