◄ 3340. Yitsri ►
Lexical Summary
Yitsri: Jezerites

Original Word: יִצְרִי
Part of Speech: Adjective
Transliteration: Yitsriy
Pronunciation: yeets-ree'
Phonetic Spelling: (yits-ree')
KJV: Jezerites
NASB: Jezerites

1. a Jitsrite (collectively) or descendants of Jetser

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
Jezerites

: patronymically from Yetser; a Jitsrite (collectively) or descendants of Jetser -- Jezerites.

see HEBREW Yetser

NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Origin
from Yetser
Definition
desc. of Jezer
NASB Translation
Jezerites (1).

Topical Lexicon
Biblical Setting

Although the exact spelling יִצְרִי does not surface in the Masoretic text, Strong’s numbering links it with the single attestation of “Izri” in the orders of Levitical singers appointed by David. 1 Chronicles 25 arranges twenty-four courses of musicians; the fourth lot is recorded: “the fourth to Izri, his sons and his brothers, twelve” (1 Chronicles 25:11). The context is the establishment of organized, continual praise in the temple service that would be carried forward into Solomon’s reign.

Levitical Lineage and Function

Izri is grouped with the sons of Asaph (compare 1 Chronicles 25:2). Asaphites were Gershonite Levites charged with prophetic song (1 Chronicles 25:1–2). Izri therefore stands in a lineage that combined musical skill with spiritual insight, ministering “with cymbals, harps, and lyres for the ministry of the house of God” (1 Chronicles 25:6). His course consisted of twelve trained relatives, mirroring the covenantal number of Israel’s tribes and underscoring corporate participation in worship.

Theological Significance of the Name

The consonants י-צ-ר suggest the root יצר, “to form” or “to fashion.” When applied to a servant of temple music, the name subtly evokes the Lord who “formed man from the dust” (Genesis 2:7) and now forms praise among His people (Isaiah 43:21). Thus Izri’s very identity points to the Creator shaping worshipers for His glory.

Ministry Contributions

1. Continuity of Praise: Izri’s lot represents one hour of the twenty-fourfold daily cycle, ensuring that song and thanksgiving never ceased in the sanctuary (1 Chronicles 25:8–9).
2. Prophetic Witness: The Levitical musicians “prophesied with the lyre” (1 Chronicles 25:3), indicating that musical ministry conveyed revelation and edification, foreshadowing New Testament exhortations to “speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19).
3. Order and Discipline: The casting of lots under royal oversight (1 Chronicles 25:8) models the cooperation of human planning and divine sovereignty in worship leadership.

Historical Impact

The arrangements instituted under David shaped Second Temple liturgy and continued into post-exilic times (Ezra 3:10–11; Nehemiah 12:27–47). By standing in the fourth division, Izri contributed to a template that later synagogue and church traditions would emulate—set readings, scheduled psalms, and trained choirs.

Christological Trajectory

Temple song looked forward to the Messiah, whom Hebrews portrays as leading the congregation in praise: “I will declare Your name to My brothers; in the assembly I will sing Your praises” (Hebrews 2:12 quoting Psalm 22:22). The ordered courses, including Izri’s, prefigure the unbroken worship of the Lamb in Revelation 5:8–14.

Practical Applications for the Church

• Leadership in worship today still requires spiritual preparation and skill, modeled by Izri’s dedicated family ensemble.
• Structured schedules of praise can enhance, not hinder, the Spirit’s work when grounded in Scripture.
• Every believer, like the twelve members of Izri’s course, has a place in the continuous chorus that God is forming for Himself.

Summary

Strong’s Hebrew 3340 draws attention to Izri, a relatively obscure yet essential figure in David’s liturgical reforms. His single mention unfolds a rich tapestry of God-fashioned worship—ordered, prophetic, and Christ-centered—encouraging modern believers to offer likewise a well-formed sacrifice of praise.

Links
Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts
3339
Top of Page
Top of Page