patronymically from יִשְׂרָאֵל; a Jisreelite or descendant of Jisrael; of Israel, Israelite.
Transliteration:Yisrᵉʼêlîy
Pronunciation:yis-reh-ay-lee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3481}}` (Yisrᵉʼêlîy) is a gentilic adjective or noun derived directly from the proper noun `{{H3478}}` (Yisra'el), which refers to the patriarch Jacob and, by extension, the nation descended from him. Its core meaning denotes an individual who is a "descendant of Israel" or "of Israel," hence, an "Israelite." As an adjective, it signifies "Israelitish" or "pertaining to Israel." This word fundamentally identifies a person as a member of the covenant people, belonging to the lineage chosen by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not among the most frequently occurring terms, `{{H3481}}` appears in specific contexts where the identity of an individual as an "Israelite" is particularly significant.
One notable instance is found in [[Leviticus 24:10-11]]. This passage describes a blasphemer, identified as "the son of an Israelite woman, whose father was an Egyptian." The text explicitly states, "the Israelite woman's son blasphemed the Name and cursed." Here, the repeated designation of the mother as "Israelite" (אִשָּׁה יִשְׂרְאֵלִית) is crucial. Despite his mixed parentage, the son's legal standing and accountability within the Israelite community are tied to his Israelite mother. This highlights the importance of maternal lineage in establishing identity within the covenant people, especially in matters of law and religious obligation. The contrast with his Egyptian father underscores the distinctness of the Israelite identity.
Another occurrence is in [[2 Samuel 17:25]], where Ithra is identified as "Ithra the Israelite" (יִתְרָא הַיִּשְׂרְאֵלִי). This designation serves to specify his national or ethnic origin, distinguishing him as a member of the Israelite nation. In a narrative involving various factions and loyalties, such identifiers are important for understanding a character's background and potential allegiances.
These occurrences demonstrate that `{{H3481}}` is employed to establish the ethnic, national, and, by extension, covenantal identity of individuals, often in contexts where such identity carries legal, social, or historical weight.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H3478}}` (Yisra'el), the foundational term from which `{{H3481}}` is derived. `{{H3478}}` refers to the patriarch Jacob (Genesis 32:28) and the nation that descended from him (Exodus 1:9). Understanding `{{H3478}}` is essential for grasping the full weight of `{{H3481}}`.
Other related concepts and words include:
* `{{H1121}}` (ben, "son") and `{{H1323}}` (bat, "daughter"), often used in phrases like "sons of Israel" (בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל) to refer to the collective people.
* `{{H5971}}` ('am, "people"), frequently used in conjunction with "Israel" to denote "the people of Israel."
* `{{H1471}}` (goy, "nation"), often used in contrast to Israel, emphasizing Israel's unique status among the nations.
* `{{H6944}}` (qahal, "assembly" or "congregation"), referring to the gathered community of Israel, often in a religious context.
* The concepts of "covenant" (בְּרִית, `{{H1285}}`), "chosen people" (עַם סְגֻלָּה), and "lineage" (מִשְׁפָּחָה, `{{H4940}}`) are intrinsically linked to the identity conveyed by `{{H3481}}`.
### Theological Significance
The term `{{H3481}}` carries profound theological significance as it points directly to the distinct identity and divine election of the nation of Israel. To be called an "Israelite" is to be identified with the people whom God chose, delivered from bondage, and with whom He established a covenant relationship at Sinai.
In [[Leviticus 24:10-11]], the "Israelite woman" is the conduit through which covenant identity is conveyed to her son, even when his father is a foreigner. This highlights that Israelite identity is not merely an ethnic or national designation but a spiritual one, tied to the covenant and the Law. The blasphemer's punishment underscores that belonging to Israel carried not only privileges but also serious responsibilities before God.
The designation "Israelite" signifies participation in the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the inheritance of the land. It implies a unique relationship with Yahweh, who is specifically the God of Israel. It sets the individual apart from other nations, reflecting God's particular work and plan for this chosen people. Thus, `{{H3481}}` is more than a simple descriptor; it is a marker of divine election, covenantal relationship, and the associated blessings and obligations.
### Summary
`{{H3481}}` (Yisrᵉʼêlîy) is a gentilic term meaning "Israelite" or "of Israel," directly derived from the name of the patriarch and nation, `{{H3478}}` (Yisra'el). Its usage in the Hebrew Bible, though specific, consistently emphasizes the identity of an individual as a member of the covenant people. Contexts such as [[Leviticus 24:10-11]] underscore the importance of lineage, particularly the maternal line, in establishing one's legal and spiritual standing within the community of Israel. Theologically, `{{H3481}}` encapsulates the unique status of Israel as God's chosen nation, signifying their participation in the divine covenant, their distinct relationship with Yahweh, and the responsibilities inherent in that sacred bond. It is a term deeply rooted in the history of salvation and God's particular dealings with His elect people.
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