### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yêshûwaʻ**, represented by `{{H3442}}`, is a name meaning **he will save**. It appears **29 times** across **29 unique verses**. The name is used for ten different Israelites in the scriptures and also refers to a place in Palestine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Yêshûwaʻ** is a prominent name associated with the leadership of Israel after the Babylonian captivity. He is frequently mentioned alongside Zerubbabel, co-leading the effort to rebuild the altar of God and offer sacrifices according to the law of Moses [[Ezra 3:2]]. As a high priest, **Jeshua** the son of Jozadak, along with other leaders, affirmed their commitment to build the house of the LORD themselves [[Ezra 4:3]]. Several individuals named **Jeshua** are listed as Levites who were instrumental in religious life, such as causing the people to understand the Law [[Nehemiah 8:7]] and leading the people in praise and thanksgiving [[Nehemiah 12:24]]. The name also refers to the historical figure **Jeshua** the son of Nun [[Nehemiah 8:17]] and a town inhabited after the return from exile [[Nehemiah 11:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the context surrounding the individuals named **Yêshûwaʻ**:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): The identity of various individuals named Jeshua is established through their lineage, such as "Jeshua the **son** of Jozadak" [[Ezra 3:2]] or "Jeshua the **son** of Nun" [[Nehemiah 8:17]]. This term is vital for understanding family and covenant lines.
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): Jeshua is explicitly identified as a **priest**, highlighting his central role in re-establishing worship [[Ezra 3:2]]. His descendants are also listed among the sons of the **priests** [[Ezra 10:18]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite): Many of the men named Jeshua were Levites, tasked with serving in the temple and teaching the people. The **Levites**, including Jeshua, are shown leading the people in public confession and worship [[Nehemiah 9:4-5]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word is central to Jeshua's story, as he and Zerubbabel **builded** the altar of God [[Ezra 3:2]] and committed to **build** a house for God [[Ezra 4:3]], signifying the physical and spiritual restoration of Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3442}}` is demonstrated through the actions of the people who bear this name.
* **Restoration of Worship:** The name Jeshua, meaning "he will save," is intrinsically linked to the salvation and restoration of Israel's relationship with God. This is seen as Jeshua the priest rebuilds the altar [[Ezra 3:2]] and his namesake Levites lead the people to **bless** the LORD [[Nehemiah 9:5]].
* **Spiritual Leadership:** Jeshua is a key figure in the leadership that guided Israel's return to faithfulness. He is part of the effort to **set forward** the work of the house of the LORD [[Ezra 3:8-9]].
* **Instruction in God's Law:** The role of Jeshua as one of the Levites who "caused the people to **understand** the law" [[Nehemiah 8:7]] underscores that salvation includes a return to God's divine precepts.
* **Generational Faithfulness:** The lineage of Jeshua is carefully recorded, as he **begat** Joiakim, continuing the priestly line [[Nehemiah 12:10]]. This emphasizes the continuation of the covenant through generations.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3442}}` is more than just a common name in the post-exilic period. It embodies the theme of salvation and restoration. The various figures named **Yêshûwaʻ** are at the forefront of rebuilding the altar, leading worship, and teaching the law. The name itself, meaning "he will save," serves as a constant reminder of God's work to restore His people and re-establish His presence among them through dedicated leaders.
TRV