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Hebrew Word of the Day

יׅשְׂרָאֵל

Meaning: Israel

Translit: Yis•ra•el

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This name was first introduced in the Bible in Gen. 32:29:

“And he said, Your name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel; for as a prince you have power with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

In fact, the translation: “you have power” is somewhat weak. The Hebrew word that is used in this verse is “sa-ri-ta.” It is a past-tense verb that comes from the root word “Sar.” Sar is, indeed, a prince, but in this verse it is a verb which means “to fight” or even better: “to wrestle.” In a way, taking the action of a prince or hero. Listen carefully to the two words: “Israel” and “wrestle.” Can you hear the similarity?

Now you know from where the word “wrestle” came, and you also know the full meaning of the name “Israel.”

Israel

by | Aug 30, 2016 | Blog | 0 comments

This name was first introduced in the Bible in Gen. 32:29:

“And he said, Your name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel; for as a prince you have power with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

In fact, the translation: “you have power” is somewhat weak. The Hebrew word that is used in this verse is “sa-ri-ta.” It is a past-tense verb that comes from the root word “Sar.” Sar is, indeed, a prince, but in this verse it is a verb which means “to fight” or even better: “to wrestle.” In a way, taking the action of a prince or hero. Listen carefully to the two words: “Israel” and “wrestle.” Can you hear the similarity?

Now you know from where the word “wrestle” came, and you also know the full meaning of the name “Israel.”