Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Jesurun" (also spelled "Jeshurun") is derived from the Hebrew word "Yeshurun," which is believed to mean "upright one" or "beloved one." It is a poetic name for Israel, used in the Hebrew Bible to denote a sense of endearment and idealized righteousness. Biblical References: Jesurun appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Deuteronomy and Isaiah. It is used as a symbolic name for the nation of Israel, reflecting its chosen status and the special relationship between God and His people. 1. Deuteronomy 32:15 : "But Jeshurun grew fat and kicked; you grew fat, thick, and sleek. He abandoned the God who made him and scorned the Rock of his salvation." In this passage, Jesurun is depicted as having become complacent and rebellious after experiencing prosperity. The name is used to highlight Israel's failure to remain faithful to God despite His blessings. 2. Deuteronomy 33:5 : "So the LORD became King in Jeshurun when the leaders of the people gathered, when the tribes of Israel came together." Here, Jesurun is portrayed as a united and organized nation under God's kingship. The verse emphasizes the theocratic nature of Israel, with God as the ultimate ruler. 3. Deuteronomy 33:26 : "There is none like the God of Jeshurun, who rides the heavens to your aid, and the clouds in His majesty." This verse extols the uniqueness and power of God, who is the protector and helper of Jesurun. It underscores the divine support and majesty that Israel enjoys under God's care. 4. Isaiah 44:2 : "This is the word of the LORD your Maker, who formed you from the womb and will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob My servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen." In Isaiah, Jesurun is used as a term of endearment, reaffirming God's choice and care for Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's ongoing commitment to His people, despite their shortcomings. Theological Significance: Jesurun is a name that encapsulates the ideal relationship between God and Israel. It reflects the nation's calling to be upright and faithful, living in accordance with God's laws and commands. The use of Jesurun in the Scriptures serves both as a reminder of Israel's privileged status and as a call to repentance and renewal when the nation strays from its covenantal obligations. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, names often carried significant meaning and were used to convey identity and purpose. Jesurun, as a name for Israel, would have resonated with the Israelites as a reminder of their unique role as God's chosen people. The name also serves as a literary device, contrasting Israel's ideal state with its actual behavior, thus calling the nation to self-examination and spiritual renewal. Interpretation and Application: For contemporary readers, Jesurun serves as a symbol of the church's calling to live as God's people in the world. Just as Israel was called to be upright and faithful, Christians are called to embody the values of the Kingdom of God, living in a way that reflects their identity as God's chosen people. The name Jesurun challenges believers to examine their own faithfulness and commitment to God's purposes. Smith's Bible Dictionary Jesurun[JESHURUN] International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JESURUNje-su'-run, jes'-u-run. Library An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Thesaurus Jesurun (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JESURUN. je-su'-run, jes'-u-run. See JESHURUN. Multi-Version Concordance Jesurun (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jesurun.htm - 6k Jeshurun (4 Occurrences) Jesuites (1 Occurrence) Jesus (10891 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jesurun (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 44:2 Subtopics Related Terms |