### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew place name **Yᵉrûwʼêl** `{{H3385}}`, meaning **founded of God**, identifies a specific location in Palestine. This name is unique within the biblical text, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse**. Its singular mention marks it as the setting for a significant and divinely orchestrated event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3385}}` is in [[2 Chronicles 20:16]], where God, through a prophet, gives specific instructions to the people of Judah. They are told where to position themselves to witness their deliverance from an invading army: "ye shall find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of **Jeruel**." In this context, Jeruel is not a place of battle for Judah, but a divinely appointed lookout point to see God's salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The geographical and thematic context of Jeruel is illuminated by several words used in its description:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This term, defined as a pasture, desert, or wilderness, is directly attached to the name, designating the "wilderness of Jeruel." The wilderness in scripture is often a place of testing, preparation, and divine encounter [[Deuteronomy 8:2]].
* `{{H4672}}` **mâtsâʼ** (find): The people are promised they "shall **find**" their enemies at this location [[2 Chronicles 20:16]]. The word carries the sense of attaining, meeting, or occurring, highlighting the certainty of this divine appointment.
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (brook): This word for a stream or valley provides a precise landmark, "the end of the **brook**," guiding the people to the exact location before the wilderness of Jeruel [[2 Chronicles 20:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3385}}` is tied directly to its name and the event that takes place there.
* **A Place of Divine Appointment:** The name "founded of God" suggests a place with a divine origin or purpose. God specifically directs His people to this location, making it the appointed stage for His miraculous intervention.
* **A Stage for God's Salvation:** The people are told they will not need to fight but should go to Jeruel to "see the salvation of the LORD" [[2 Chronicles 20:17]]. The wilderness of Jeruel thus becomes the theater where God's power is displayed on behalf of His people.
* **Finding God's Presence in the Wilderness:** The promise to **find** `{{H4672}}` the enemy at this spot echoes the spiritual theme of seeking and finding God [[Isaiah 55:6]]. At Jeruel, the people find not only their foes but also the undeniable presence and power of God.
### Summary
In summary, **Yᵉrûwʼêl** `{{H3385}}` is far more than a simple geographical note. Though mentioned only once, its meaning, "founded of God," and its context in 2 Chronicles 20 frame it as a location of immense theological importance. It stands as a powerful symbol of a place specifically chosen by God for His people to witness His deliverance, demonstrating that even a desolate wilderness can become a sanctuary of divine revelation and salvation.
TRV