### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun yᵉrêshâh (יְרֵשָׁה) `{{H3424}}` is derived from the verbal root yārash (יָרַשׁ) `{{H3423}}`, which carries a broad semantic range including "to inherit," "to take possession of," "to dispossess," or "to occupy." As a noun, yᵉrêshâh specifically denotes the *act* of occupancy or the *state* of possession. It emphasizes the actual holding or occupying of something, typically land or property, as a result of inheritance, conquest, or legal right. Unlike terms that might refer to the *right* to possess, yᵉrêshâh points to the tangible reality of possession and holding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term yᵉrêshâh `{{H3424}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its contextual analysis particularly crucial for understanding its precise nuance.
* **[[Leviticus 25:46]]**: "And you may take them as an inheritance for your children after you, to inherit them for a possession; you shall make them bondservants forever. But over your brothers, the children of Israel, you shall not rule with rigor, one over another."
In this singular occurrence, yᵉrêshâh describes the perpetual nature of the possession of foreign bondservants by Israelite families. The verse is part of the intricate legal framework concerning servitude and the Jubilee year. The use of yᵉrêshâh here underscores the complete and enduring nature of this particular form of ownership, explicitly contrasting it with the temporary and less stringent servitude permitted for fellow Israelites. The context highlights a legal distinction, where non-Israelite slaves could be held as a permanent yᵉrêshâh, passed down through generations, signifying an absolute and inheritable right of possession.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding yᵉrêshâh `{{H3424}}` is enhanced by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms and broader biblical concepts:
* **yārash (יָרַשׁ) `{{H3423}}`**: This is the direct verbal root from which yᵉrêshâh is derived. yārash signifies the action of taking possession, inheriting, or dispossessing. yᵉrêshâh is the noun form, representing the *result* or *state* of this action.
* **naḥalâh (נַחֲלָה) `{{H5159}}`**: Often translated as "inheritance" or "heritage," this term typically refers to the *object* of inheritance, especially the land apportioned to the tribes and families of Israel. While yᵉrêshâh emphasizes the active state of holding, naḥalâh focuses on the inherited portion itself. Both terms are integral to the concept of land tenure and divine promises in Israel.
* **'aḥuzzah (אֲחֻזָּה) `{{H272}}`**: Meaning "possession," "property," or "holding," this word is also used for tangible property. It can overlap with yᵉrêshâh in denoting something possessed, but yᵉrêshâh carries a stronger connotation of being the result of an act of taking or inheriting.
* **Concepts**: The terms relate to biblical concepts such as inheritance laws, land tenure, the distinction between Israelite and non-Israelite legal statuses, and the broader theme of God's grant of possession to His people within the Promised Land.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, yᵉrêshâh `{{H3424}}` carries theological weight by illuminating the distinct legal and social structures established by God for Israel.
1. **Covenantal Distinction**: The use of yᵉrêshâh in [[Leviticus 25:46]] underscores the unique covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The law delineates a clear distinction between "the stranger" and "the brother" in terms of rights and obligations, including the nature of servitude and possession. While Israelite servitude was limited by the Jubilee, the perpetual yᵉrêshâh of foreign bondservants highlights a divinely sanctioned social stratification that reflected the unique status of the covenant people.
2. **Sovereignty and Stewardship**: The ultimate ownership of the land and all people belongs to God. While yᵉrêshâh describes a human act of possession, it operates within God's overarching sovereignty. Israel's "possession" of the land itself was a divine grant, a naḥalâh `{{H5159}}` from the Lord, not an absolute human right. The specific laws regarding yᵉrêshâh for bondservants reflect God's wisdom in establishing a legal framework for a complex society in the ancient Near East, even as it challenges modern ethical sensibilities.
3. **Justice and Law**: The meticulous detail of the Mosaic Law, even in seemingly minor terms like yᵉrêshâh, demonstrates God's concern for order, justice (within the covenantal framework), and the precise definition of relationships and rights within the community. It speaks to the comprehensive nature of divine instruction for every facet of life.
### Summary
The Hebrew word yᵉrêshâh (יְרֵשָׁה) `{{H3424}}`, derived from the root yārash (יָרַשׁ) `{{H3423}}`, signifies "occupancy" or "possession," specifically emphasizing the act or state of holding something. Its singular occurrence in [[Leviticus 25:46]] is highly significant, referring to the perpetual possession of non-Israelite bondservants. This usage highlights a critical legal distinction within the Mosaic covenant, contrasting with the temporary nature of Israelite servitude. Theologically, yᵉrêshâh illuminates the unique covenantal boundaries, God's sovereignty over all creation, and the precise legal framework provided for Israel, underscoring the divine ordering of social and economic life within the Promised Land. It is a rare but potent term, precise in its meaning and rich in its contextual implications for understanding ancient Israelite society and divine law.
TRV