### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **Yisrâʼêl**, represented by `{{H3479}}`, is the counterpart to the Hebrew name for **Israel**. Its base definition describes it as a symbolical name for Jacob and, typically, his posterity. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible, where it is used to denote the national and religious identity of the people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H3479}}` is consistently used to define the people in relation to their God. The phrase "the God of **Israel**" appears multiple times, establishing a covenant identity ([[Ezra 5:1]], [[Ezra 6:14]]). The term encompasses the entire nation, whether referred to as "the children of **Israel**" [[Ezra 6:16]] or "the people of **Israel**" [[Ezra 7:13]]. Its use in reference to an offering made "according to the number of the tribes of **Israel**" signifies the unity of the twelve tribes as a single entity [[Ezra 6:17]]. The word also carries a historical weight, recalling a past era when "a great king of **Israel**" ruled [[Ezra 5:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words help define the components and identity of **Israel**:
* `{{H5972}}` **ʻam** ({a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of Israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock}; people): This term for a congregated unit is used directly in the phrase "the **people** of Israel" to describe the collective nation [[Ezra 7:13]].
* `{{H3062}}` **Yᵉhûwdâʼîy** (a Jehudaite (or Judaite), i.e. Jew; Jew): This patrial name identifies individuals from Judah. The "elders of the **Jews**" are shown building according to the command of the God of **Israel**, linking this specific group to the broader national identity [[Ezra 6:14]].
* `{{H3549}}` **kâhên** ({one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)}; priest): The **priests** are identified as a distinct class within the larger body of **Israel**, often listed alongside the Levites and the general populace [[Ezra 6:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3479}}` is centered on the covenant identity of the people.
* **Divine Patronage:** The recurring title "the God of **Israel**" establishes that the identity of the people is inseparable from their relationship with their specific deity, who commands them and receives their worship ([[Ezra 6:14]], [[Ezra 7:15]]).
* **Corporate Unity:** The term signifies a unified spiritual body. This is illustrated by the sin offering made for "all **Israel**," which was explicitly linked to "the number of the tribes of **Israel**," reinforcing the concept of a single people before God [[Ezra 6:17]].
* **Sacred Vocation:** The identity of **Israel** is tied to specific religious duties and structures. The people are defined as a community that includes **priests** and **Levites**, all of whom are involved in activities like the dedication of the house of God ([[Ezra 6:16]], [[Ezra 7:13]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3479}}` **Yisrâʼêl** functions as a crucial identifier in the Aramaic texts of scripture. It is not merely a name for a people but a term loaded with theological significance, defining them by their relationship with God, their unified tribal heritage, and their sacred responsibilities. It consistently points to a distinct community with a divine mandate and a unique place in the biblical narrative.
TRV