ELTBefore Israel ישראל
The name *Israel* (ישראל) can be understood as a combination of several key elements:
- *יש* ('ish') means "man,"
- *אל* ('el') means "God," and
- *ר* ('revelation') represents God's revelation to man.
Thus, *Israel* signifies "man [who is] joined to God by revelation." This highlights the unique relationship between humanity and God, established through divine revelation. It is not just a name for a nation, but a representation of the possibility for all men to be united with God through revelation.
- Adam and Eve as Israel**
Adam and Eve were the original *Israel*. In the Garden, they were created to have direct fellowship with God, living in perfect unity. Though their disobedience marred this relationship, they still represent the beginning of God's revelation to man.
- Noah as Israel**
Noah is also considered a type of *Israel*. After the flood, Noah became the representative of God's covenant with humanity, and through him, the revelation of God's promise to never again destroy the earth by flood was made. His story is a pivotal moment in God's revelation to mankind.
- Abraham as Israel**
Abraham is a foundational figure in the story of *Israel*. God made a covenant with Abraham, promising him that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 17:4–5). The Abrahamic covenant, which promised blessings not just for Abraham but for all nations, reveals God's plan for mankind through a chosen people who would teach the world about His ways.
- The Covenants and Their Application to All Men**
The covenants given to Adam, Noah, and Abraham applied to all men. God revealed Himself through these covenants, establishing promises and teachings that were meant to reach beyond a specific people group to all of humanity. The idea that these covenants were not exclusive to Israel but applied universally is foundational to understanding God's revelation of Himself throughout history.
- Jacob and His Family as Israel**
Jacob, later named *Israel* (Genesis 32:28), and his descendants became the literal *Israel*—a nation chosen to carry out God's will on earth. They were chosen not just for their own benefit but to be a light to the nations, teaching the world about God's covenants, beginning with the foundational promises given to Adam, Noah, and Abraham.
In summary, *Israel* is not just a name for a nation but represents the idea of man, *ish* (יש), being joined to God, *el* (אל), through revelation, *r* (ר). From the beginning, Adam and Eve, Noah, and Abraham were all forms of *Israel*, with God's covenants revealing His plan for all men. Jacob's family, as *Israel*, was chosen to carry forward this revelation and teach the nations about God's promises.
