from גַּזָז; shearer; Gazez, the name of two Israelites; Gazez.
Transliteration:Gâzêz
Pronunciation:gaw-zaze'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H1495}}` (Gâzêz) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its meaning is directly derived from its root verb, `{{H1494}}` (gāzaz), which signifies "to shear," typically referring to the shearing of sheep. Thus, the name "Gazez" literally means "shearer" or "one who shears." In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried significant meaning, reflecting a person's character, the circumstances of their birth, or their family's profession or aspiration. While the specific intent behind naming these individuals Gazez is not explicitly stated, the name inherently connects them to the pastoral life and the essential economic activity of wool production.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Gazez appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances found within the genealogies of the tribe of Judah in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 2:46]]: "And Haran begat Gazez." This refers to Gazez as the son of Haran, who was a son of Caleb (son of Hezron, of Judah). This places him within a prominent lineage of Judah, known for its leadership and heritage.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:46]]: "And Ephah, Caleb's concubine, bare Haran, and Moza, and Gazez." This second mention within the very same verse is notable. It indicates that Gazez was also a son of Ephah, one of Caleb's concubines. The repetition suggests either two distinct individuals named Gazez, both connected to Caleb's extended family, or perhaps a textual nuance indicating a different maternal lineage for a single individual. Given the nature of biblical genealogies, it is most probable that these are two separate individuals, both bearing a name that likely reflected a family trade or a characteristic associated with their line. The context of these occurrences is purely genealogical, serving to establish and preserve the lineage of the tribes, particularly Judah, through whom the messianic line would eventually emerge.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H1495}}` is its verbal root, `{{H1494}}` (gāzaz), meaning "to shear," "to cut off," or "to clip." This verb is frequently used in contexts involving the shearing of sheep (e.g., [[Genesis 31:19]], [[1 Samuel 25:2]], [[Isaiah 53:7]]). It can also refer to cutting hair (e.g., [[Ezekiel 44:20]]) or, metaphorically, to cutting off or destroying (e.g., [[Job 6:9]]).
Other related terms include:
* `{{H1492}}` (gāz): A noun meaning "fleece" or "shearing."
* `{{H1493}}` (gizzāh): A noun also meaning "fleece" or "shearing," famously used in the account of Gideon's fleece (e.g., [[Judges 6:37]]).
These words collectively point to the vital role of sheep husbandry and wool production in ancient Israelite society. Shearing was an annual event, often accompanied by feasting and celebration, signifying prosperity and the provision of essential resources like clothing. The concept extends to the idea of "cutting off" or "separation," though in the context of the name Gazez, the primary association remains with the pastoral occupation.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing in genealogical lists, `{{H1495}}` (Gazez) does not carry explicit theological doctrine. However, its presence and etymological root offer several indirect theological insights:
1. **Divine Providence in Human Labor:** The name "shearer" highlights a common, yet vital, human occupation in ancient Israel. It underscores that all legitimate forms of labor, even the seemingly mundane, contribute to the well-being of the community and are part of God's created order. God provides for His people through their diligent work, including the care of livestock and the processing of their products.
2. **The Importance of Lineage and Continuity:** The meticulous recording of names like Gazez in biblical genealogies testifies to God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people and their heritage. These lists, though often overlooked, are crucial for demonstrating the continuity of God's promises and the eventual fulfillment of the messianic line through Judah. Every name, even those with limited narrative, contributes to this grand divine tapestry.
3. **The Ordinary within the Sacred:** The Bible, as God's inspired Word, includes details of everyday life and common professions. This reminds us that God's plan encompasses all aspects of human existence, sanctifying the ordinary and revealing His presence even in the seemingly unremarkable details of family history and daily work.
### Summary
`{{H1495}}` (Gâzêz) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "shearer," derived from the verb `{{H1494}}` (gāzaz), "to shear." It appears twice in [[1 Chronicles 2:46]], identifying two individuals within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Judah, both connected to Caleb's lineage. While the name itself does not carry direct theological teaching, its etymological root connects it to the vital pastoral economy of ancient Israel. The inclusion of such a name in sacred scripture subtly affirms the dignity of human labor, the meticulousness of God's preservation of lineage, and the divine attention to the ordinary details of life within His overarching redemptive plan.
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