from בֵּן and זוֹחֵת; son of Zocheth; Ben-Zocheth, an Israelite; Ben-zoketh.
Transliteration:Ben-Zôwchêth
Pronunciation:ben-zo-khayth'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma בֶּן־זוֹחֵת (Ben-Zôwchêth), Strong's number `{{H1132}}`, is a compound proper noun. It is derived from two elements: בֵּן (ben, `{{H1121}}`), meaning "son," and זוֹחֵת (Zôwchêth, `{{H2108}}`), which is itself a proper name. Thus, the literal meaning of Ben-Zôwchêth is "son of Zocheth." While the name Zocheth (זוֹחֵת) is etymologically linked to the verb זוּחַ (zûach, `{{H2107}}`), meaning "to creep" or "to crawl," this root meaning is not semantically active in the proper name itself. Rather, Ben-Zôwchêth functions as a distinct personal name, signifying a specific individual identified by his ancestral connection to someone named Zocheth. Its semantic range is therefore limited to this specific designation of lineage as a personal identifier within ancient Israelite society.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ben-Zôwchêth (`{{H1132}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogies of the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 4:20]]: "And the sons of Ishi were Zoheth, and Ben-zoheth."
This verse occurs within the detailed tribal genealogies of Judah, though the preceding verses also mention descendants of Simeon, a tribe whose territory was intertwined with Judah's. The context is purely genealogical, listing the descendants of Ishi. The phrasing "Zoheth, and Ben-zoheth" indicates that Ben-zoheth is presented as a distinct individual, a proper name in itself, rather than merely "the son of Zoheth" who was just mentioned. This highlights the practice of forming new proper names by incorporating a patronymic element, which then becomes part of the individual's unique designation. The purpose here is to meticulously record the lineage and familial connections within the tribes of Israel, a common feature of the Chronicler's work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding Ben-Zôwchêth (`{{H1132}}`) is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related concepts:
* **בֵּן (ben, `{{H1121}}`):** This ubiquitous Hebrew noun for "son" is fundamental to the structure of many Israelite names and to the concept of lineage, inheritance, and identity. Its presence in Ben-Zôwchêth signifies a direct paternal link.
* **זוֹחֵת (Zôwchêth, `{{H2108}}`):** The personal name Zocheth, from which Ben-Zôwchêth derives its second element. Its precise meaning as a name is obscure, though its root `{{H2107}}` ("to creep") suggests a possible ancient association.
* **Genealogy:** The broader biblical concept of genealogy is crucial. These detailed lists, particularly prevalent in Genesis, Numbers, and Chronicles, serve to establish tribal identity, priestly succession, and the lineage of the Messiah. Ben-Zôwchêth's inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of these records.
* **Patronymic Names:** The formation "Ben-X" (son of X) is a common naming convention in ancient Semitic cultures, emphasizing familial ties and identity through the father.
### Theological Significance
While Ben-Zôwchêth (`{{H1132}}`) is a minor figure, appearing only once in a genealogical list, its inclusion carries broader theological significance inherent in the biblical emphasis on lineage:
1. **Divine Providence in Preservation:** The meticulous recording of names, even those of seemingly obscure individuals like Ben-Zôwchêth, reflects God's sovereign care in preserving the family lines of Israel. This preservation was vital for the fulfillment of covenant promises, particularly those related to land inheritance and the eventual lineage of the Messiah.
2. **Continuity of God's People:** Genealogies emphasize the continuity of God's chosen people through generations. Each name, regardless of its prominence, represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history, demonstrating His faithfulness across time.
3. **Value of Every Individual:** The fact that even a single mention of a name like Ben-Zôwchêth is preserved in the inspired text suggests that every individual, however seemingly insignificant in the grand narrative, has a place within God's overarching plan and is known to Him. It underscores the biblical truth that God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, down to the smallest detail.
### Summary
Ben-Zôwchêth (`{{H1132}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "son of Zocheth," functioning as a distinct personal name. It appears only once in the biblical record, in [[1 Chronicles 4:20]], as part of the detailed genealogies of Judah. The name exemplifies the ancient Israelite practice of forming names with patronymic elements, highlighting familial connections. Despite its singular occurrence, Ben-Zôwchêth's presence in the biblical text underscores the theological importance of genealogies in the Old Testament: they confirm tribal identity, establish lineage for covenant promises, and demonstrate God's meticulous care in preserving His people and their history.
TRV