יְסוּדָה (ye.su.dah)

ye.su.dah

foundation

H3248 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-F

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 1 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: H:N-F

Word Overview

The noun yesudah refers to a foundation, specifically in the context of establishing a city. It denotes the act or result of laying the groundwork for urban settlement, emphasizing stability and origin rather than just physical stone.

This term appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Psalm 87:1, where it describes Zion as having its "foundation" laid by God. The usage highlights Jerusalem’s unique status as a city divinely established, contrasting with other cities that rise through human effort alone.

Its singular occurrence underscores the theological weight given to divine foundation in biblical thought. While less common than related terms for building materials, yesudah points to the authority and permanence of God’s choice in placing His presence among His people.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word yesudah points to the solid ground beneath our feet, specifically the foundation laid by God Himself. In Psalm 87:1, we learn that Zion’s foundation rests in the holy mountains, established not by human ambition but by divine choice. This reminds us that true stability comes from where God places His presence, rather than from our own efforts to build a secure life.

When you feel uncertain about your future or the stability of your community, this verse offers a quiet assurance. Your spiritual home is anchored in something eternal and unshakable. You do not need to construct your own foundation from scratch; God has already laid the groundwork for those who trust in Him.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

foundation/ his1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

יְ֝סוּדָת֗/וֹ1×

Key Verses

Psalms 87:1
A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song. His foundation is in the holy mountains.

This verse uniquely identifies God as the one who lays the foundation of Zion, emphasizing divine origin over human construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word yesudah mean?

Yesudah refers to a foundation, particularly in the context of establishing a city or settlement. It emphasizes stability and origin, highlighting that something is securely grounded.

Where does yesudah appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Psalm 87:1, where it describes Zion's foundation being laid by God in the holy mountains.

How is yesudah different from other words for building materials?

While other terms might refer to stones or bricks, yesudah focuses on the act of laying groundwork and the resulting stability. It points to authority and permanence rather than just physical components.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Psalms 1 verse

Psalms 87:1

A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song. His foundation is in the holy mountains.