### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yᵉshurûwn**, represented by `{{H3484}}`, is a symbolic name for Israel derived from a root meaning **upright**. It appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant. The name is used to portray Israel in both its ideal, cherished state and as a cautionary figure demonstrating the perils of pride and prosperity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3484}}` serves as a poetic and powerful designation for the nation of Israel. In a context of reassurance, the LORD `{{H3068}}` refers to Israel as "Jesurun, whom I have chosen" [[Isaiah 44:2]], directly linking the name to God's elective love and creative power. In contrast, the name is used in a stark warning where **Jeshurun** "waxed fat, and kicked" [[Deuteronomy 32:15]], forsook `{{H5203}}` God `{{H433}}`, and lightly esteemed `{{H5034}}` his salvation `{{H3444}}`. This demonstrates how blessing can lead to rebellion. The name also appears in contexts of praise, declaring there is none like the God `{{H410}}` of **Jeshurun** [[Deuteronomy 33:26]] and referencing a time when a king `{{H4428}}` was established in **Jeshurun** as the tribes `{{H7626}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}` gathered [[Deuteronomy 33:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the identity and condition of **Jeshurun**:
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (Jacob): This is the patriarchal name for Israel, often used in parallel with Jeshurun. While Jacob can mean "supplanter," Jeshurun signifies an idealized, "upright" identity, as seen when God comforts, "Fear not, O **Jacob**, my servant; and thou, **Jesurun**, whom I have chosen" [[Isaiah 44:2]].
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (Israel): The national name given to Jacob, meaning "he will rule as God." Jeshurun is explicitly linked to the unified tribes of **Israel** being gathered together under a king [[Deuteronomy 33:5]], solidifying it as a name for the nation in its collective identity.
* `{{H1163}}` **bâʻaṭ** (kick): This verb describes Jeshurun's act of rebellion. After becoming prosperous, "Jeshurun waxed fat, and **kicked**" [[Deuteronomy 32:15]], a term that figuratively means to despise or trample down, showing contempt for the one who provided for him.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3484}}` is expressed in its dual application.
* **An Idealized Identity:** The name **Jeshurun**, meaning "upright," represents God's ideal for His covenant people. It is a term of endearment used by God to call Israel to its highest purpose as His chosen `{{H977}}` servant `{{H5650}}`, formed `{{H3335}}` from the womb `{{H990}}` [[Isaiah 44:2]].
* **A Warning Against Apostasy:** The narrative of **Jeshurun** in Deuteronomy serves as a powerful allegory for the danger of forgetting God in times of plenty. Prosperity led to becoming covered `{{H3780}}` in fatness, which resulted in forsaking God and lightly esteeming the Rock `{{H6697}}` of salvation `{{H3444}}` [[Deuteronomy 32:15]].
* **A Reflection of Divine Majesty:** The name is tied to the supreme glory of God. The unmatched power of the "God of **Jeshurun**" who rides `{{H7392}}` upon the heaven `{{H8064}}` is a declaration of His sovereignty and His willingness to provide help `{{H5828}}` for His people [[Deuteronomy 33:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3484}}` **Yᵉshurûwn** is a rich, multifaceted, and symbolic name for Israel. While appearing infrequently, it carries significant theological depth. It functions as both an affectionate name for the "upright one" that God has chosen and formed, and as a solemn reminder of how easily blessing can curdle into rebellion when the source of that blessing is forsaken. It captures the tension between Israel's divine calling and its human fallibility.
TRV