### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yᵉrachmᵉʼêl**, represented by `{{H3396}}`, means "God will compassionate." It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses** and is the name given to three distinct individuals in the biblical record. The name itself combines the concepts of compassion (from רָחַם) and God (אֵל), pointing to a core attribute of God's character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3396}}` is used primarily within genealogical lists to establish lineage and identity. The most detailed account is of Jerahmeel, the firstborn son of Hezron from the tribe of Judah ([[1 Chronicles 2:9]], [[1 Chronicles 2:25]]). His extensive family line, including his sons and a second wife, is documented [[1 Chronicles 2:25-33]]. A second individual named Jerahmeel was a Levite, the son of Kish [[1 Chronicles 24:29]]. A third Jerahmeel, the son of Hammelech, was an official commanded by the king to arrest the prophet Jeremiah and his scribe Baruch, though the LORD hid them from capture [[Jeremiah 36:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the familial and social context of Jerahmeel:
* `{{H2696}}` **Chetsrôwn** (Hezron): This name identifies the father of the most prominent Jerahmeel, placing him squarely within the lineage of Judah [[1 Chronicles 2:9]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is essential for tracing Jerahmeel's lineage, identifying him as the **son** of Hezron and listing his own descendants who build the family name ([[1 Chronicles 2:9]], [[1 Chronicles 2:25]]).
* `{{H1060}}` **bᵉkôwr** (firstborn): This term designates the status of Jerahmeel as the **firstborn** of Hezron and of his own son, Ram, signifying a position of prominence and chief status within the family [[1 Chronicles 2:25]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This word establishes a key relationship, noting that Caleb was the **brother** of Jerahmeel, linking two significant lines within the tribe of Judah [[1 Chronicles 2:42]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3396}}` is found in its meaning and the roles of the men who carried the name.
* **A Name of Promise:** The name itself, meaning "God will compassionate," serves as a declaration of faith in God's merciful character.
* **The Role of the Firstborn:** The identification of Jerahmeel as a **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` connects him to a vital biblical theme, where the firstborn holds a special status, consecrated to God and often carrying the line of inheritance ([[Exodus 13:2]], [[1 Chronicles 2:25]]).
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The story of Jerahmeel the official highlights God's power over human authority. Despite being commanded by the king to seize the prophet, his mission failed because "the LORD hid them" [[Jeremiah 36:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3396}}` is more than just a name; it is a theological statement embedded in the history of Israel. It is carried by individuals in contexts of genealogy, Levitical service, and royal authority. Through the name "God will compassionate" and the narratives of the men who bore it, scripture illustrates themes of God's mercy, the structured importance of lineage, and His ultimate protection over His servants.
TRV