Israel
Peopleâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The name Israel originates from the patriarch Jacob, who received this designation in Genesis 32:28, and subsequently functions as the primary identifier for his descendants, the nation of Israel.
What is the meaning of Israel in the Bible?
The name Israel originates from the patriarch Jacob, who received this designation in Genesis 32:28, and subsequently functions as the primary identifier for his descendants, the nation of Israel.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the dual meaning of Israel as both a renamed individual and a collective people clarifies the biblical narrative's transition from patriarchal history to national identity, revealing how personal divine encounters established the foundation for the tribal confederation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Israel in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Israel clarify?
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.