The Hebrew name Yᵉsarʼêlâh, represented by H3480, is defined as right towards God; Jesarelah, an Israelite; Jesharelah. The name is a variation derived from words meaning "right" and "God". It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific personal name.
The single biblical appearance of H3480 is in the lists of priestly divisions for temple service. In the text, the name appears as Jesharelah. He is identified as the one chosen for the seventh lot, and he, along with his sons and brethren, formed a group of twelve who were set apart for this duty 1 Chronicles 25:14. This context places Jesharelah within the structured order of worship established for the sanctuary.
Several related words from its only verse of use help clarify the context of Jesharelah's role:
- H7637 shᵉbîyʻîy (seventh): This ordinal number assigns Jesharelah's specific place in the priestly rotation, highlighting the structured and organized nature of the temple service 1 Chronicles 25:14. The number seven often carries significance, as seen in God blessing the seventh day Genesis 2:3.
- H1121 bên (son): This word, defined as a builder of the family name, shows that Jesharelah's service was a family affair, carried on with his sons 1 Chronicles 25:14. This passing of duties to one's sons is a recurring theme Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H251 ʼâch (brother): Jesharelah's group also included his brethren, signifying kinship and a unified group working together in their appointed role 1 Chronicles 25:14. This reflects the ideal of brethren dwelling together in unity Psalms 133:1.
- H8147 shᵉnayim and H6240 ʻâsâr (twelve): These words combine to denote the number of people in Jesharelah's group. The number twelve is foundational in Israel's history, recalling the twelve sons of Jacob Genesis 35:22.
The theological weight of H3480 is derived almost entirely from its definition and context.
- A Name of Character: The meaning "right towards God" encapsulates the ideal posture for anyone appointed to serve in the Lord's presence. The name itself suggests righteousness and a proper spiritual orientation.
- Ordered Worship: Jesharelah's selection by lot as the "seventh" H7637 places him within a divinely ordered system of worship. This demonstrates that service to God is not haphazard but follows a sacred structure.
- Communal and Generational Service: The inclusion of his "sons" H1121 and "brethren" H251 highlights that sacred duties were often fulfilled in a family and community context, reinforcing the importance of unity and generational faithfulness.
In summary, Yᵉsarʼêlâh H3480 is a rare biblical name with a potent meaning. Though the person Jesharelah is mentioned only once, his name, which means "right towards God," and his role in the temple service 1 Chronicles 25:14 serve as a small but clear illustration of the biblical principles of righteousness, divinely appointed order, and the familial nature of worship in ancient Israel.
TRV