יָצִיא

יָצִיא

issue, i.e. offspring

Definition

The noun יָצִיא (yâtsîyʼ) refers to 'issue' or 'offspring,' specifically denoting those who come forth or are brought out. It is derived from the verb יָצָא (yâtsâ'), meaning 'to go out' or 'to bring forth,' and thus carries the sense of progeny or descendants as a product of coming out. In its sole biblical occurrence in 2 Chronicles 32:21, it describes the offspring of King Hezekiah, emphasizing the continuation of his lineage. While the word is rare, its meaning is straightforward, focusing on the result of a generative process, akin to 'fruit' or 'posterity.'

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Chronicles 32:21, where it is used in a historical context to refer to King Hezekiah's descendants. The verse states that after God delivered Jerusalem from Assyria, Hezekiah prospered, and the text mentions 'those that came forth of his own bowels' (KJV), meaning his children. The usage is singular and specific, highlighting the royal lineage and God's blessing in providing offspring, which was culturally significant for dynastic continuity.

Etymology

יָצִיא is a noun derived from the root verb יָצָא (yâtsâ', H3318), which means 'to go out,' 'to come forth,' or 'to bring out.' The noun form emphasizes the result of that action—what is brought forth. Cognates in other Semitic languages, such as Ugaritic and Aramaic, show similar roots meaning 'to exit' or 'to produce.' The development from a verb of motion to a noun denoting offspring illustrates how Hebrew often uses concrete actions to describe abstract concepts like progeny.

Semantic Range

Though יָצִיא is used only once, it connects to broader theological themes of God's covenant promises regarding offspring, as seen with Abraham (Genesis 15:5) and David (2 Samuel 7:12). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches Bible reading by highlighting how physical descendants were seen as a sign of divine blessing and faithfulness, especially in royal contexts where lineage ensured the continuation of God's plan through the Davidic line, ultimately pointing to Christ. In ancient Israelite culture, offspring were highly valued as a means of perpetuating family name, inheritance, and covenant blessings. The term יָצִיא, used for Hezekiah's children, reflects this cultural emphasis on progeny as a mark of prosperity and divine favor. Unlike modern individualistic views, children were seen as a collective extension of the patriarch, ensuring legacy and social stability, particularly for kings whose lineage secured dynastic rule. זֶרַע (zeraʿ, H2233) — seed, a broader term for offspring or descendants, often used in covenant contexts. פְּרִי (perîy, H6529) — fruit, metaphorically for children or produce, emphasizing yield. תּוֹלְדוֹת (tôledôth, H8435) — generations, referring to lineage or family history over time.

Word Details