(Aramaic) corresponding to יִשְׂרָאֵל; {Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also (typically) of his posterity}; Israel.
Transliteration:Yisrâʼêl
Pronunciation:yis-raw-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term יִשְׂרָאֵל (Yisrâʼêl), designated by `{{H3479}}`, is the direct Aramaic equivalent of the more common Hebrew term `{{H3478}}`. Its foundational meaning is derived from the narrative in [[Genesis 32:28]], where Jacob is renamed "Israel." The text itself interprets the name as "for you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome." This etymology suggests a compound of the verb שָׂרָה (śārāh, to strive, contend, rule) and אֵל (ʾēl, God). Thus, interpretations include "God contends," "he contends with God," or "God rules." The semantic range of "Israel" extends from its initial referent as the new, symbolic name for the patriarch Jacob, to his direct descendants (the twelve tribes), and subsequently to the entire nation formed from these descendants, representing God's covenant people. The use of the Aramaic form specifically appears in later biblical books, reflecting the linguistic context of the post-exilic period, but carries the identical meaning and referential scope as its Hebrew counterpart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary significance of "Israel" originates in the pivotal encounter at Peniel, where Jacob wrestles with a divine figure and is given this new name, as recorded in [[Genesis 32:28]]. This event marks a profound transformation in Jacob's identity and his relationship with God. Following this, the name "Israel" comes to refer collectively to Jacob's twelve sons, who become the progenitors of the twelve tribes, as seen in passages like [[Exodus 1:1]] and [[Numbers 1:1]]. As these tribes coalesce into a nation, "Israel" becomes the primary designation for God's covenant people, particularly after the Exodus and the formation of the Mosaic Covenant at Sinai. This includes the period of the united monarchy under Saul, David, and Solomon. After the division of the kingdom, "Israel" often specifically denotes the Northern Kingdom (the ten tribes), in contrast to "Judah" (the Southern Kingdom), as exemplified in [[1 Kings 12:19]] and [[2 Kings 17:6]]. In the post-exilic period, particularly in books with Aramaic sections such as Ezra and Daniel, `{{H3479}}` (the Aramaic form) is employed to refer to the entire covenant community, often those who returned from exile, signifying the continuity of God's people. For instance, in [[Ezra 6:16]], the Aramaic form is used in the context of the dedication of the rebuilt temple by "the people of Israel." Similarly, in [[Daniel 9:11]], it appears in a prayer acknowledging the transgressions of "all Israel."
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic term `{{H3479}}` is intrinsically linked to its more frequently occurring Hebrew counterpart, `{{H3478}}` (יִשְׂרָאֵל), sharing the identical meaning and scope. The foundational connection is to `{{H3290}}` (יַעֲקֹב - Jacob), the patriarch whose renaming signifies a profound shift in character and destiny. The contrast and continuity between "Jacob" (the supplanter) and "Israel" (one who strives with God) are crucial. The term is often associated with `{{H6064}}` (עַם - am), meaning "people," to denote "the people of Israel," emphasizing their collective, covenantal identity. In distinction from `{{H1471}}` (גּוֹי - goy), which refers to "nation" or "gentile," "Israel" stands as God's specially chosen nation. The concept of the covenant, particularly the Abrahamic and Mosaic covenants, is inseparable from Israel's identity as God's elect people. Furthermore, the idea of chosenness and the promised land are core concepts tied to the name "Israel," highlighting their unique relationship with Yahweh and their designated inheritance.
### Theological Significance
The renaming of Jacob to Israel in [[Genesis 32]] holds profound theological significance. It symbolizes a divine encounter that transforms human weakness and self-reliance into strength derived from wrestling with God and ultimately submitting to His will. This transformation underscores that true blessing and identity come from a relationship with the divine, not from human cunning. "Israel" embodies the identity of God's covenant people, chosen to be the recipients of His promises, the bearers of His law, and the means through which His redemptive plan for all humanity would unfold. Their history, marked by both divine faithfulness and human rebellion, serves as a paradigm for God's relationship with humanity, demonstrating themes of election, covenant, sin, judgment, and restoration. The name "Israel" itself, meaning "he strives with God," reflects the ongoing spiritual struggle and perseverance that characterize the journey of faith, both individually and corporately. Ultimately, the theological trajectory of Israel culminates in the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills the covenant and embodies the true Israel. The New Testament expands this identity, teaching that the "Israel of God" ([[Galatians 6:16]]) now includes all who are united to Christ by faith, regardless of ethnic origin, thus broadening the scope of God's covenant people.
### Summary
The Aramaic term `{{H3479}}` "Yisrâʼêl" is the Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew "Israel" ({{H3478}}`), carrying the same profound meaning and significance. Rooted in the renaming of Jacob in [[Genesis 32:28]], it signifies "he struggles with God," marking a pivotal transformation from human effort to divine encounter. The name encompasses Jacob, his descendants as the twelve tribes, and the entire nation of God's chosen people. Throughout the biblical narrative, "Israel" consistently refers to the covenant community, whether unified, divided, or restored after exile. Theologically, "Israel" represents God's election, the dynamic nature of faith as a struggle with the divine, and God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant promises. Its presence in Aramaic texts like Ezra and Daniel underscores the continuity of this sacred identity across linguistic and historical shifts, ultimately pointing towards the fulfillment of God's purposes in the Messiah.
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