Topical Encyclopedia Igeal is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Israelite exploration of Canaan. His name, which can be translated to mean "God redeems" or "He redeems," reflects a common theme in Hebrew nomenclature, where names often bear theological significance.Tribe of Issachar Igeal is identified as a member of the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Issachar is traditionally associated with wisdom and understanding, as seen in 1 Chronicles 12:32, which describes the men of Issachar as those "who understood the times and knew what Israel should do." This background provides a cultural and spiritual context for Igeal's role among the Israelites. Role as a Spy Igeal's most notable biblical appearance is in the Book of Numbers, where he is listed among the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. Numbers 13:7 states, "from the tribe of Issachar, Igeal son of Joseph." This mission was a pivotal moment in Israelite history, as it was intended to assess the land promised to them by God. The spies were tasked with evaluating the land's fertility, the strength of its inhabitants, and the fortifications of its cities. The Report of the Spies Upon returning from their exploration, the spies delivered their report to Moses and the Israelite community. While the land was indeed fruitful, as evidenced by the cluster of grapes they brought back, ten of the spies, including Igeal, expressed fear and doubt about the Israelites' ability to conquer the land. Numbers 13:31 records their apprehension: "We cannot go up against the people, for they are stronger than we are." This report led to widespread fear and rebellion among the Israelites, resulting in God's judgment that the current generation would not enter the Promised Land. Theological Implications Igeal's participation in the mission and subsequent report highlights themes of faith and obedience versus fear and doubt. The narrative underscores the importance of trusting in God's promises, even when circumstances appear daunting. The failure of the ten spies, including Igeal, to trust in God's power and provision serves as a cautionary tale for believers, emphasizing the consequences of disbelief and disobedience. Legacy While Igeal's role in the biblical narrative is brief, his actions contributed to a significant turning point in Israelite history. The account of the spies is a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in their journey to the Promised Land and the necessity of faith in God's promises. Igeal's account, as part of this larger narrative, continues to be a point of reflection for those studying the dynamics of faith, leadership, and divine guidance in the Bible. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary IgealSmith's Bible Dictionary Igeal(whom God will avenge), a son of Nehemiah; a descendant of the royal house of Judah. (1 Chronicles 3:22) (B.C. 406.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IGEALi'-ge-al, i'-je-al (yigh'al, "he (i.e. God) redeems"): A remote descendant of David (1 Chronicles 3:22, the Revised Version (British and American) "Igal"). Strong's Hebrew 3008. Yigal -- "He redeems," three Israelites... NASB Word Usage Igal (3). Igal, Igeal. From ga'al; avenger; Jigal, the name of three Israelites -- Igal, Igeal. see HEBREW ga'al. 3007, 3008. Yigal. 3009 . ... /hebrew/3008.htm - 6k Thesaurus Igeal (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia IGEAL. i'-ge-al, i ... American) "Igal"). Multi-Version Concordance Igeal (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ... /i/igeal.htm - 7k Igdali'ah (1 Occurrence) Iglaam (2 Occurrences) Igal (3 Occurrences) Shechaniah (8 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Igeal (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 3:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
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