### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yisrâʼêl**, represented by `{{H3478}}`, is a pivotal name meaning "he will rule as God." It is derived from the words **śārâ** `{{H8280}}`, meaning to prevail or have power, and **ʼêl** `{{H410}}`, meaning God. Appearing **2505 times** across **2229 unique verses**, it is first given as a symbolic name to Jacob and later comes to represent his posterity, the nation of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{H3478}}` is first bestowed upon Jacob after he prevails in his struggle with God [[Genesis 32:28]]. The name then expands to define his descendants as a collective, frequently referred to as the "children of Israel" [[Exodus 3:14]] or the "house of Israel" [[1 Samuel 7:3]]. This collective identity is central to their relationship with God, who is identified as the "God of Israel" [[1 Chronicles 4:10]], their "King" [[Isaiah 44:6]], and their "Redeemer" [[Isaiah 54:5]]. The name is also at the heart of divine promises, such as the new covenant God will make with the house of Israel [[Jeremiah 31:33]] and the prophecy of a future ruler for Israel [[Micah 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the meaning of `{{H3478}}`:
* `{{H8280}}` **śārâ** (to prevail): This root word forms the basis of the name and is used in the explanation of Jacob's renaming, where he is told he has "power as a prince" with God [[Genesis 32:28]].
* `{{H410}}` **ʼêl** (God): The second part of the name, signifying that the power to prevail comes from or is in relation to God.
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (Jacob): The original name of the patriarch, often used in parallel with Israel to refer to both the man and the nation [[Isaiah 43:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is frequently used to form the phrase "children of Israel," signifying the expansion of the name from an individual to his descendants as a nation [[Hosea 1:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3478}}` is profound and multifaceted.
* **Covenant Relationship:** Israel is the name of the people with whom God establishes a unique covenant. He declares He will be their God, and they shall be His people [[Jeremiah 31:33]]. They are identified as His chosen servant [[Isaiah 41:8]].
* **Divine Identification:** God closely associates His own name and character with the nation, referring to Himself as the "Holy One of Israel" [[Isaiah 48:17]], the "King of Israel" [[Isaiah 44:6]], and the "Strength of Israel" [[1 Samuel 15:29]].
* **Promise of Redemption:** The name is tied to God's redemptive plan. God is Israel's "Redeemer" [[Isaiah 54:5]] and promises them an "everlasting salvation" [[Isaiah 45:17]]. Even when scattered, God promises to gather the "outcasts of Israel" [[Psalms 147:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3478}}` is far more than a simple national or ancestral label. It originates as a powerful, symbolic name given to Jacob, signifying one who has prevailed with God. The name then expands to encompass his entire posterity, becoming the title for God's covenant people. It is a cornerstone of biblical theology, defining a unique relationship with God and embodying His promises of redemption, restoration, and enduring faithfulness.
TRV