יְזַוְאֵל

יְזַוְאֵל

Jezavel, an Israelite

Definition

Yezavel (יְזַוְאֵל) is a proper name of a single individual in the Old Testament, an Israelite warrior from the tribe of Benjamin. He is listed among the mighty men who joined David at Ziklag while David was fleeing from King Saul (1 Chronicles 12:3). The name is a compound, meaning 'sprinkled of God' or 'God sprinkles,' suggesting a sense of divine consecration or purification. In the biblical record, he is noted for his skill with the bow and the sling, specifically as an ambidextrous archer.

Biblical Usage

This name occurs only once in the entire Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 12:3. Its usage is strictly as a personal identifier within a military roster of Benjaminite warriors who defected to David's cause. The context is a historical list detailing the early supporters who strengthened David's band, highlighting their martial prowess and loyalty during a transitional period in Israel's history.

Etymology

The name יְזַוְאֵל (Yezavel) is derived from an unused Hebrew root זוה (zwh), understood to mean 'to sprinkle' or 'to issue,' combined with the divine name אֵל (ʼÊl), meaning 'God.' Thus, the name is a theophoric construction, common in Hebrew, literally translating to 'sprinkled of God' or 'God sprinkles.' This likely conveys a sense of being set apart or purified by divine action.

Semantic Range

While the name itself is not central to major doctrines, its meaning—'sprinkled of God'—connects to important biblical themes of consecration and divine selection. The ritual of sprinkling blood or water in the Mosaic law (e.g., Exodus 24:6-8, Leviticus 14:7) symbolized purification, covenant ratification, and setting apart for God's service. As one of David's loyal warriors, Yezavel's name may subtly reflect the idea that God was preparing and purifying a people for the establishment of the Davidic kingdom, which holds significant messianic promise. In ancient Israelite culture, names were often descriptive and carried significant meaning, reflecting hopes, circumstances, or divine attributes. A name meaning 'sprinkled of God' would have been understood in the context of priestly rituals and purification rites familiar from the Torah. As a skilled ambidextrous archer, Yezavel's military role was highly valued, and his inclusion in David's band marked him as part of the core group that helped secure the future king's reign, a position of honor and historical importance. As a unique proper noun, there are no direct synonyms. However, other theophoric names with the element אֵל (ʼÊl) share a similar structure, such as: יִשְׁמָעֵאל (Yishmaʻel, H3458) — 'God hears'; דָּנִיֵּאל (Daniyʼel, H1840) — 'God is my judge.'

Word Details