### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yᵉrubbaʻal**, represented by `{{H3378}}`, is a symbolic title meaning "**Baal will contend**." This name, which appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses**, is formed from the words **rîyb** `{{H7378}}`, meaning "to contend," and **Baʻal** `{{H1168}}`, a Phoenician deity. It was given to the Israelite judge **Gideon** `{{H1439}}` as a title reflecting a pivotal act of faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the name **Yᵉrubbaʻal** is given to Gideon after he **threw down** `{{H5422}}` the altar of Baal, prompting the declaration, "Let Baal **plead** `{{H7378}}` against him" [[Judges 6:32]]. Scripture uses this name interchangeably with Gideon, as seen in the phrase "Jerubbaal, who is Gideon" [[Judges 7:1]]. The name also becomes central to the tragic events following his leadership, particularly concerning his **son** `{{H1121}}`, Abimelech, and the massacre of the seventy sons of **Yᵉrubbaʻal** [[Judges 9:24]]. Despite the turmoil within his household, he is remembered as one of the leaders the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` **sent** `{{H7971}}` to **deliver** `{{H5337}}` Israel from its **enemies** `{{H341}}` [[1 Samuel 12:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context and meaning of `{{H3378}}`:
* `{{H7378}}` **rîyb** (to contend): This root forms the active part of the name, signifying a legal or physical struggle. It defines the direct challenge issued to the false god.
* `{{H1168}}` **Baʻal** (Baal, a Phoenician deity): As the object of contention, this name highlights the core conflict of idolatry that Jerubbaal was called to confront.
* `{{H1439}}` **Gidʻôwn** (Gideon): This is the personal name of the man who received the title Jerubbaal, linking his identity as a "feller" or "warrior" to his public stand against Baal [[Judges 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3378}}` is tied directly to the battle against idolatry and the nature of divine justice.
* **Confrontation with False Gods:** The name's origin marks a pivotal act of obedience. By destroying the altar of Baal, Jerubbaal publicly declares the impotence of the idol and the supreme authority of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Judges 6:32]].
* **Divine Deliverance and Human Failure:** Jerubbaal is listed among the judges whom God **sent** `{{H7971}}` to **deliver** `{{H5337}}` Israel [[1 Samuel 12:11]]. However, the narrative also shows the tragic aftermath of his life, where the **cruelty** `{{H2555}}` of his own son, Abimelech, brought about the destruction of his house [[Judges 9:24]].
* **Legacy of Judgment:** The name becomes a marker for divine retribution. The **evil** `{{H7451}}` of the men of Shechem and the actions of Abimelech are judged in direct relation to their dealings with the house of **Yᵉrubbaʻal** [[Judges 9:16]], culminating in the fulfillment of the **curse** `{{H7045}}` of his youngest son, Jotham [[Judges 9:57]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3378}}` is not merely an alternative name for Gideon but a title loaded with theological significance. It commemorates a defining act of faith and defiance against the worship of **Baal** `{{H1168}}`. The name frames the subsequent narrative, connecting Gideon's righteous stand to the later violence and judgment that engulfs his family. **Yᵉrubbaʻal** encapsulates the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to God and the pull of idolatry, illustrating how one man's actions can set in motion consequences of both divine deliverance and human tragedy.
TRV