### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yishay**, represented by `{{H3448}}`, is the name of David's father, **Jesse**. It appears 42 times across 39 unique verses in the Bible. The name's definition is **extant**, establishing Jesse as a key, tangible figure in the lineage of Israel's monarchy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Jesse is primarily identified as the father of David `{{H1732}}` and a native of Bethlehem, often called "Jesse the Bethlehemite" `{{H1022}}` [[1 Samuel 16:1]]. The LORD `{{H3068}}` sends the prophet Samuel `{{H8050}}` to Jesse's house to anoint one of his sons `{{H1121}}` as the future king `{{H4428}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}`. Jesse presents seven of his sons, but God does not choose `{{H977}}` them, leading to the selection of David, his youngest son, who was keeping the sheep `{{H6629}}` [[1 Samuel 16:11]]. The title "son of Jesse" becomes a significant identifier for David, used as a declaration of loyalty [[1 Chronicles 12:18]] but also as a term of contempt by his adversaries ([[1 Samuel 20:30]], [[1 Samuel 25:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding Jesse's role in the scriptures:
* `{{H1732}}` **David**: The youngest son of Jesse, his name means loving. Jesse's primary identity in scripture is as the father of King David, linking him directly to the royal line [[Ruth 4:22]].
* `{{H1022}}` **Bêyth hal-Lachmîy** (Bethlehemite): This term, meaning a native of Bethlechem, is frequently used to describe Jesse and his family, grounding their lineage in a specific and prophetically significant town [[1 Samuel 17:58]].
* `{{H1121}}` **ben** (son): This word is crucial, as the phrase "son of Jesse" is used repeatedly to define David's identity. It signifies his heritage and is used by friends and foes alike to refer to him ([[1 Kings 12:16]], [[2 Samuel 23:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3448}}` is immense, extending far beyond his historical role as a father.
* **Root of the Davidic Lineage:** Jesse stands as the patriarch of Israel's royal dynasty. His genealogy, beginning with Obed `{{H5744}}`, establishes the line from which King David would reign over all Israel `{{H3478}}` ([[Ruth 4:17]], [[1 Chronicles 29:26]]).
* **Messianic Prophecy:** Isaiah's prophecies elevate Jesse's name to a symbol of messianic hope. A "rod" `{{H2415}}` is prophesied to come from the "stem" `{{H1503}}` of Jesse, and a "Branch" `{{H5342}}` from his "roots" `{{H8328}}` [[Isaiah 11:1]]. This "root of Jesse" will stand as an "ensign" `{{H5251}}` for the people `{{H5971}}`, and to him the Gentiles `{{H1471}}` will seek `{{H1875}}` [[Isaiah 11:10]].
* **Object of Divine Sovereignty:** The account of Samuel at Jesse's home demonstrates God's sovereign choice. God rejects `{{H3988}}` Jesse's older sons, showing that His selection for a king `{{H4428}}` is not based on outward appearance but on His divine provision [[1 Samuel 16:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3448}}` **Yishay** is far more than a name in a genealogy. He is the father of Israel's most revered king and the man from whose family God chose a ruler. The phrase "son of Jesse" became a powerful identifier for David. Ultimately, Jesse's name is enshrined in prophecy as the "stem" `{{H1503}}` and "root" `{{H8328}}` from which the Messiah would arise, making him a foundational figure in the lineage of redemption.
TRV