Jesurun is a name found in the King James Bible, appearing 1 time in the text.
Who This Was
Jesurun is a poetic name for Israel, used in the Book of Deuteronomy and appearing once in the King James Bible, in Isaiah 44:2. The source note identifies it as a name meaning “upright one,” applied to the nation of Israel as a term of endearment and honor. Though the name is masculine in form, it refers not to a single individual but to the people of Israel collectively, addressed as one person.
In the setting of Isaiah 44, the LORD is speaking through the prophet Isaiah to His people. The verse reads: “Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.” Here Jesurun is set in parallel with “Jacob,” confirming that both names refer to the same people—the descendants of Jacob, the nation of Israel. The LORD describes Himself as the One who made them and formed them from the womb, and as their helper.
What Scripture says of Jesurun in this passage is entirely the LORD’s declaration concerning them: they are His servant, they are chosen by Him, and they are called to fear not because He will help them. The name carries a tone of affection and dignity, presenting Israel under the title “upright one,” even as the surrounding chapters of Isaiah acknowledge the nation’s failures and need of redemption. The verse stands as a word of comfort and assurance spoken to a people whom God claims as His own.
The Name
The name Jesurun (also rendered Jeshurun in other translations) is a Hebrew name understood to mean “upright one,” as the source note states. This meaning is well established and is reflected in the way the name is used as a poetic and honorific title for Israel. It appears to be derived from a Hebrew root associated with uprightness or straightness. In the King James Bible, the form “Jesurun” is used, and it occurs only once, in Isaiah 44:2, where it stands in parallel with “Jacob” as a name for the covenant people of God.
A Closing Thought
Jesurun reminds us that God does not address His people only by their failures. Though Israel was often wayward, the LORD still called them “upright one” and named Himself their maker, helper, and the One who had chosen them. In the same way, God’s word to His people is not first a word of condemnation but of comfort: “Fear not.” If you belong to Him, your identity rests not in your own record but in His choosing, His forming, and His help. Let that steady the heart when you feel unworthy.
At a Glance
- Gender: Male
- Testament: Old
- Mentions in the KJV: 1
Where It Appears in Scripture
- Isaiah 44:2 — Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.