יִזְלִיאָה

Jizliah, an Israelite

Definition

Yizlîyʼâh is a proper noun referring to an Israelite man named Jizliah (also spelled Jezliah in the KJV). He appears only once in the biblical record as a descendant of Benjamin, listed among the family heads living in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 8:18). The name itself is likely derived from a Hebrew root meaning 'to draw out,' suggesting a meaning like 'he will draw out' or 'Yahweh draws out.' As a personal name, it carries no other major senses or meanings beyond identifying this specific individual within a genealogical list.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 8:18. Its usage is purely genealogical, appearing within a list of Benjaminite family heads who settled in Jerusalem. There are no patterns of broader usage, as it functions solely as a personal identifier within a historical record.

Etymology

The name Yizlîyʼâh (יִזְלִיאָה) is likely a compound. It appears to be formed from an unused Hebrew root ז-ל-ה (z-l-h), which is thought to mean 'to draw up' or 'to draw out,' combined with the theophoric element יָה (Yah), a shortened form of Yahweh. Thus, the name's probable meaning is 'he will draw out' or 'Yahweh draws out.' This follows a common pattern for Hebrew names expressing hope or an attribute of God.

Semantic Range

As a personal name from the tribe of Benjamin, Yizlîyʼâh reflects the common Israelite practice of using names with theological or aspirational meanings. The element 'Yah' connects the individual's identity directly to the God of Israel. His inclusion in the 1 Chronicles 8 genealogy underscores the post-exilic community's emphasis on preserving tribal lineages and establishing continuity with the past, which was crucial for identity and land claims.

Yizlîyʼâh has no direct synonyms as a proper name. Other Benjaminite names in the same list, like Shimrî (H8113) and Elpaal (H508), are distinct individuals.

Word Details

Scripture References