### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâshân**, represented by `{{H3465}}`, is a term for **old**. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning to be old, `{{H3465}}` is used to describe things that are from a previous time or season, such as stored provisions or established structures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3465}}` primarily denotes age in a literal sense. In Leviticus, it is used to describe the **old** store of fruit that the Israelites would eat, signifying God's promise of such abundance that the previous year's harvest would last until the new one came in [[Leviticus 25:22]]. This contrast between the **old** `{{H3465}}` and the new is also seen in a promise of blessing where the people will have to bring forth the **old** to make room for the new [[Leviticus 26:10]]. The word is also used to identify a landmark in Jerusalem, the "**old** gate," which was repaired during the time of Nehemiah ([[Nehemiah 3:6]], [[Nehemiah 12:39]]). In Isaiah, it refers to the "**old** pool" as part of Jerusalem's water system [[Isaiah 22:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context to the idea of age and provision:
* `{{H3462}}` **yâshên** (old (store), remain long, (make to) sleep): A primitive root from which `{{H3465}}` is derived, it refers to the state of growing old or remaining for a long time. It appears alongside `{{H3465}}` to describe the "old store" that would be eaten as a sign of abundance [[Leviticus 26:10]].
* `{{H2319}}` **châdâsh** (new): This word serves as a direct antonym to `{{H3465}}` and is often used in the same context to create a contrast. It highlights the overlap of provision, with both **old** and new fruits available [[Song of Solomon 7:13]], and the replacement of old store with new [[Leviticus 26:10]].
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): This word provides a physical context for `{{H3465}}`, as seen in the repeated references to the "**old** gate" of Jerusalem, a significant and established landmark that was part of the city's restoration ([[Nehemiah 3:6]], [[Nehemiah 12:39]]).
### Theological Significance
While primarily a descriptive term, the conceptual weight of `{{H3465}}` is seen in its application:
* **Sign of Abundant Provision:** Its use in Leviticus illustrates a key aspect of God's covenant blessing. Having enough **old** `{{H3465}}` food to last until the new harvest demonstrates a provision that exceeds immediate need, ensuring security and sustenance for God's people [[Leviticus 25:22]].
* **Continuity and Heritage:** The reference to the "**old** gate" [[Nehemiah 3:6]] and the "**old** pool" [[Isaiah 22:11]] connects present actions to an established past. It signifies the value placed on historical structures and the continuity of Jerusalem's identity through generations.
* **Richness of Stored Blessings:** In Song of Solomon, the presence of both "new and **old**" `{{H3465}}` fruits laid up for the beloved speaks to a love that is both fresh and mature, with a store of accumulated affection and pleasant things [[Song of Solomon 7:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3465}}` **yâshân** is a straightforward term for "old" that carries significant meaning based on its context. It moves from a literal descriptor of aged food and structures to a symbol of God's overflowing provision, historical continuity, and the richness of long-held blessings. Its frequent pairing with the word "new" serves to emphasize the completeness and abundance of God's gifts, whether in a harvest, a city, or a relationship.
TRV