; patronymically from יֵצֶר; a Jitsrite (collectively) or descendants of Jetser; Jezerites.
Transliteration:Yitsrîy
Pronunciation:yits-ree'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term יִצְרִי (Yitsrîy), Strong's H3340, functions as a patronymic, signifying "a Jitsrite" or "Jezerites," referring collectively to the descendants of an individual named יֵצֶר (Yetser). As a patronymic, its primary semantic function is to denote lineage and tribal affiliation. The name of the progenitor, יֵצֶר (Yetser), Strong's `{{H3336}}`, is derived from the verbal root יָצַר (yatsar), Strong's `{{H3335}}`, which means "to form," "to fashion," or "to mold." While the patronymic itself does not directly carry the active sense of "forming," its etymological root subtly connects the family's identity to the concept of divine formation or purposeful creation, a theme often associated with God's work in the Hebrew Bible. Thus, the "Jezerites" are those "formed" or "fashioned" as a distinct family unit within the larger Israelite tribal structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term יִצְרִי (Yitsrîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Numbers 26:49]]. This occurrence is found within the second census of the Israelites, taken in the plains of Moab before their entry into the land of Canaan. The verse reads: "Of Jezer, the family of the Jezerites: of Shupham, the family of the Shuphamites: of Hupham, the family of the Huphamites."
In this context, the "Jezerites" are identified as one of the clans descended from Naphtali, specifically through his son Jezer (יֵצֶר). The census in [[Numbers 26]] is not merely a demographic count but a pivotal moment in Israel's history, serving several crucial purposes:
1. **Preparation for Inheritance:** It enumerated those who would inherit the land, with the division of the land to be based on the number of men in each tribe and clan.
2. **Military Readiness:** It counted those able to go to war, underscoring Israel's identity as God's army.
3. **Divine Order:** It demonstrated God's meticulous ordering and preservation of His people, tribe by tribe, family by family.
The inclusion of the "Jezerites" in this detailed genealogical record affirms their established identity and their legitimate place within the covenant community, ensuring their right to a portion of the promised inheritance. Their listing alongside other clans highlights the structured and organized nature of the Israelite society under divine guidance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of יִצְרִי (Yitsrîy) is enriched by understanding its relationship to several key terms and concepts:
* **יֵצֶר (Yetser) - Strong's `{{H3336}}`:** This is the proper name of the progenitor from whom the "Jezerites" derive their name. He is listed as a son of Naphtali in [[Genesis 46:24]] and [[Numbers 26:49]]. Understanding the individual is crucial for comprehending the collective.
* **יָצַר (yatsar) - Strong's `{{H3335}}`:** The verbal root meaning "to form," "to fashion," or "to mold." This root is frequently used in the context of divine creation, as in God "forming" man from the dust of the ground ([[Genesis 2:7]]) or "forming" the spirit of man within him ([[Zechariah 12:1]]). While the patronymic "Jezerite" does not directly mean "one who forms," the name of their ancestor, "Yetser," carries this etymological weight, subtly linking the family's origin to the concept of divine formation and purpose.
* **Patronymics in Israelite Society:** The use of patronymics (e.g., "Shuphamites," "Huphamites" in [[Numbers 26:49]]) was fundamental to Israelite identity, lineage, and the structure of their tribal society. These names served to delineate family units, establish claims to inheritance, and track genealogical purity.
* **Census and Genealogy:** The broader context of the census in [[Numbers 26]] and other genealogical lists (e.g., [[Genesis 46]], [[1 Chronicles]]) emphasizes the importance of lineage in God's covenant dealings with Israel. These records are not mere historical curiosities but vital theological statements about divine faithfulness, the fulfillment of promises, and the ordering of the elect people.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of the "Jezerites" in the biblical record, though seemingly a minor detail, carries significant theological weight:
1. **Divine Order and Providence:** The meticulous enumeration of every clan, including the Jezerites, underscores God's sovereignty and His precise ordering of His people. It reveals a God who is intimately involved in the details of human history and who orchestrates the formation and preservation of families and tribes according to His divine plan. This speaks to a providential care that extends even to the specific lineage of a minor clan.
2. **Identity and Inheritance in the Covenant:** To be counted as a "Jezerite" was to possess a distinct identity within the covenant community of Israel. It was a tangible affirmation of one's belonging and, crucially, one's right to a share in the promised land. This highlights how individual and familial identity was inextricably linked to the broader covenant relationship with Yahweh and the fulfillment of His promises of land and nationhood. Every family, regardless of its size or prominence, had a designated place and purpose in God's redemptive narrative.
3. **Subtle Echoes of Divine Creation:** While indirect, the etymological root of "Yetser" (to form/fashion) provides a subtle theological resonance. It can be seen as pointing back to God as the ultimate "Former" or "Creator" of all things, including the very fabric of human families and nations. In this sense, the "Jezerites," like all of Israel, were a people "formed" by God for His purposes, reflecting His intentional design for His chosen people.
### Summary
The term יִצְרִי (Yitsrîy), Strong's H3340, designates the "Jezerites," a specific clan descended from Jezer, son of Naphtali. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Numbers 26:49]] places it within the context of the second Israelite census, a vital record for establishing tribal identity, military readiness, and the allocation of land inheritance. The word's patronymic nature emphasizes lineage, while its etymological root in "to form" (יָצַר, `{{H3335}}`) subtly connects the clan's identity to the concept of divine creation and purpose. Theologically, the mention of the Jezerites underscores God's meticulous order and providence in preserving and preparing His people for their covenant inheritance, affirming the significance of every family unit within His grand redemptive plan.
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