### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yᵉrêshâh**, represented by `{{H3424}}`, refers to a **possession** or **occupancy**. Derived from the root יָרַשׁ, this term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **2 times** within a single verse of scripture. Its meaning is therefore entirely defined by this one specific context, which describes the taking of territory as a result of conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3424}}` is in the prophecy recorded in [[Numbers 24:18]]: "And Edom shall be a **possession**, Seir also shall be a **possession** for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly." Here, the word is used twice to emphasize the complete subjugation of Edom and Seir. The context is a declaration of Israel's future strength and victory, where the lands of their adversaries will be taken over and become their property. This links the concept of possession directly to divinely-ordained conquest.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single biblical context help clarify the meaning of `{{H3424}}`:
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm**: Defined as **red; Edom, the elder twin-brother of Jacob; hence the region (Idumaea) occupied by him**. This identifies the specific nation and territory that is destined to become a `possession` [[Numbers 24:18]].
* `{{H8165}}` **Sêʻîyr**: Meaning **rough; Seir, a mountain of Idumaea and its aboriginal occupants**. This further specifies the geographic area to be possessed, reinforcing the territorial nature of the prophecy [[Numbers 24:18]].
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb**: Meaning **hating; an adversary; enemy, foe**. This word clarifies that the act of taking possession is directed against an adversary, framing it as an outcome of conflict [[Numbers 24:18]].
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl**: Symbolically meaning **he will rule as God**, this represents the nation of Israel, who is the agent of the action, the one who will take the `possession` [[Numbers 24:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3424}}` is derived entirely from its prophetic context.
* **Divine Judgment:** The transformation of Edom and Seir into a `possession` is presented as a direct consequence of their status as enemies of Israel. It represents God's judgment enacted through his chosen people.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The use of `yᵉrêshâh` in [[Numbers 24:18]] is a promise of future victory. It underscores God's sovereignty over nations and His power to give the lands of enemies into the hands of Israel.
* **Conquest as Inheritance:** The word frames military conquest not merely as a human endeavor but as the taking of a rightful inheritance or occupancy granted by a higher power, tied to Israel doing "valiantly" [[Numbers 24:18]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3424}}` is a term of limited use, its singular appearance carries significant meaning. It denotes a **possession** acquired through forceful subjugation as part of a divine promise. Its context in [[Numbers 24:18]] firmly ties it to themes of prophecy, judgment against adversaries, and the divinely-empowered dominion of Israel over its enemies.
TRV