### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yischâq**, represented by `{{H3446}}`, means **he will laugh**. It is the name of Jischak, the heir of Abraham. This specific form of the name appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying him as a key patriarchal figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H3446}}` consistently places Isaac within the context of God's covenantal promises to Israel. The name is invoked alongside `{{H85}}` Abraham and `{{H3290}}` Jacob to define the ancestral line whose **seed** `{{H2233}}` God promises to restore [[Jeremiah 33:26]]. The continuation of the covenant is emphasized through the mention of God's **oath** `{{H7621}}` unto **Isaac** [[Psalms 105:9]]. Furthermore, the name is used poetically to refer to the nation of Israel itself, as seen in prophecies directed against "the high places of **Isaac**" and "the house of **Isaac**" ([[Amos 7:9]], [[Amos 7:16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the significance of Isaac's place in the biblical narrative:
* `{{H85}}` **ʼAbrâhâm** (father of a multitude; Abraham, the later name of Abram; Abraham): As Isaac's father, he is the originator of the covenant that is passed down through his heir [[Psalms 105:9]].
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (heel-catcher (i.e. supplanter); Jaakob, the Israelitish patriarch; Jacob): As Isaac's son, he continues the covenant line, and the patriarchs are often named together to signify the entirety of the lineage [[Jeremiah 33:26]].
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also (typically) of his posterity; Israel): This name is used in parallel with "Isaac" in the book of Amos, demonstrating that Isaac's identity is tied to the nation descended from him ([[Amos 7:9]], [[Amos 7:16]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3446}}` is centered on its role in covenant history and national identity.
* **Covenant Continuity:** Isaac is the crucial link through which the covenant **made** `{{H3772}}` with Abraham is passed on. His significance is affirmed not just by birthright but by a specific divine **oath** `{{H7621}}`, establishing the promise for future generations [[Psalms 105:9]].
* **Patriarchal Foundation:** The grouping of Abraham, **Isaac**, and Jacob serves as a foundational formula for Israel's identity, representing the forefathers of the people to whom God made unbreakable promises regarding their **seed** `{{H2233}}` [[Jeremiah 33:26]].
* **Symbol of the Nation:** In prophecy, the name **Isaac** is used as a name for the nation of **Israel** `{{H3478}}`. Warnings against "the house of **Isaac**" are synonymous with warnings against Israel, showing his name represents his entire posterity [[Amos 7:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3446}}` **Yischâq** is more than just the name of a patriarch. While appearing infrequently, its usage is highly significant, cementing Isaac's role as the essential heir of the covenant, a foundational father of the nation alongside Abraham and Jacob, and a poetic symbol for the people of Israel themselves.
TRV