The Hebrew word Gâzêz, represented by H1495, is a proper name defined as "shearer; Gazez, the name of two Israelites; Gazez." It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times in 1 unique verse within the biblical record. Its significance lies entirely within its genealogical context as a personal name.
The sole appearance of H1495 is in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. The verse details a specific family line, stating, "And Ephah, Caleb's concubine, bare Haran, and Moza, and Gazez: and Haran begat Gazez" 1 Chronicles 2:46. This single verse accounts for both uses of the name, identifying two distinct individuals: one is the son of Caleb and his concubine Ephah, and the other is the grandson of Caleb, born to Gazez's brother, Haran.
The lineage of H1495 is established through its connection to several key figures and actions:
- H3612 Kâlêb (Caleb): Defined as "the name of three Israelites," he is the patriarch of this family line. Caleb is noted as God's servant who "hath followed me fully" Numbers 14:24.
- H2771 Chârân (Haran): Meaning "parched," this is "the name of a man and also of a place." In this context, he is the son of Caleb and brother to the first Gazez, as well as the father of the second Gazez 1 Chronicles 2:46.
- H3205 yâlad (to beget): This primitive root, meaning "to bear young" or "beget," is the action that connects the generations in this lineage. The verse uses forms of this verb to state that Ephah "bare" her sons and that Haran "begat" his son, Gazez 1 Chronicles 2:46.
The significance of H1495 is not found in the name itself but in its genealogical placement, which carries theological weight.
- Genealogical Integrity: The mention of Gazez demonstrates the detailed nature of biblical genealogies, which serve to preserve the historical record and lineage of key tribes and families, such as that of Judah.
- Lineage of Faithfulness: Gazez is part of the lineage of Caleb H3612, who was promised an inheritance and lasting seed because of his faithfulness to God Numbers 14:24. The recording of his descendants affirms the fulfillment of this promise.
- The Act of Begetting: The verb yâlad H3205, used to record the birth of Gazez, is central to scripture. It establishes not only human pedigrees 1 Chronicles 2:46 but is also used in foundational theological statements, such as God declaring of the Son, "this day have I begotten thee" Psalms 2:7.
In summary, H1495 Gâzêz is a proper name whose importance is derived entirely from its context. Mentioned twice in a single verse 1 Chronicles 2:46, it identifies two individuals within the lineage of Caleb. While a minor name, its inclusion in the biblical record highlights the value placed on genealogy for tracking lineage and demonstrating God's faithfulness to his servants like Caleb. It serves as a reminder that every name in these lists contributes to the larger, divinely preserved narrative of God's people.
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