from the same as גָּזָם; devourer; Gazzam, one of the Nethinim; Gazzam.
Transliteration:Gazzâm
Pronunciation:gaz-zawm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H1502, "Gazzâm" (גַּזָּם), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its etymology is traced to the same root as `{{H1501}}` (גָּזָם, *gazam*), which refers to a type of locust, often translated as "cutting locust" or "palmerworm." Consequently, the name "Gazzâm" carries the meaning of "devourer" or "one who cuts off." As a proper name, this etymological connection might have reflected an ancestral characteristic, an occupation, or perhaps a symbolic reference. In the context of biblical names, such appellations could sometimes be descriptive of an individual's nature, their historical circumstances, or even a prophetic insight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name "Gazzâm" (`{{H1502}}`) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances occurring in the post-exilic historical books. In both occurrences, "Gazzâm" is listed as the head of a family among the Nethinim (נְתִינִים, `{{H5411}}`), a class of temple servants who returned from the Babylonian exile.
1. **[[Ezra 2:48]]**: "the children of Gazzam, the children of Uzah, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai, the children of Asnah,"
2. **[[Nehemiah 7:51]]**: "The children of Gazzam, the children of Uzah, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai, the children of Meunim,"
These verses are part of extensive genealogical lists detailing those who returned with Zerubbabel to Judah. The Nethinim, whose name means "given ones" or "dedicated ones," were typically non-Israelites who had been assigned to perform menial tasks in the temple service, such as drawing water and cutting wood (cf. [[Joshua 9:27]] for their origin with the Gibeonites). The inclusion of "Gazzâm" in these lists underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the post-exilic community, which was crucial for re-establishing the social and religious order. The presence of a name meaning "devourer" among those dedicated to sacred service is notable, suggesting either a pre-conversion identity, a characteristic of an ancestor, or perhaps a name whose original meaning had softened over generations.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relative to `{{H1502}}` is **`{{H1501}}` (גָּזָם, *gazam*)**, which denotes a specific species of locust known for its destructive "cutting" or "devouring" habits. This connection highlights the etymological root of the name "Gazzâm."
The broader concept of **locusts** in the Bible (e.g., `{{H697}}` *arbeh*, `{{H3218}}` *yelek*, `{{H2625}}` *chasil*) is frequently associated with divine judgment, desolation, and overwhelming destructive power, as seen in passages like [[Joel 1:4]] and [[Nahum 3:15-17]]. While "Gazzâm" is a personal name and not a direct reference to a plague, its semantic root evokes these powerful images of consumption and eradication.
Furthermore, "Gazzâm" is intimately connected with the **Nethinim (`{{H5411}}`)**. Understanding the Nethinim's role as temple servants, often of foreign origin, who were integrated into the sacred economy of Israel, provides essential context. Their presence signifies the inclusive nature of God's service, drawing in those from outside the traditional Israelite lineage to contribute to the worship of YHWH.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of "Gazzâm" lies primarily in its inclusion within the broader narrative of post-exilic restoration. The meticulous listing of individuals and families, including those like the descendants of Gazzam among the Nethinim, demonstrates God's providential care for every member of His covenant community. Even those in humble service, and those whose ancestral names might carry challenging connotations, are accounted for and play a vital role in the re-establishment of worship and national identity.
The Nethinim, as a group, represent the principle of *inclusion* and *dedication*. Their foreign origin, yet their consecrated service to the temple, foreshadows the broader reach of God's redemptive plan to encompass all nations. The very name "Gazzâm," meaning "devourer," being associated with one dedicated to the Lord's house, can be seen as a subtle testament to God's transformative power. What was once associated with destruction is now brought into the sphere of holy service, demonstrating that God can repurpose and redeem even those elements seemingly antithetical to His nature for His divine purposes. This underscores the comprehensive nature of God's restoration, leaving no one behind who is willing to serve.
### Summary
Gazzâm (`{{H1502}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "devourer," derived from the word for a "cutting locust." It appears in [[Ezra 2:48]] and [[Nehemiah 7:51]], identifying the head of a family among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants who returned from the Babylonian exile. The inclusion of Gazzam's descendants in these crucial post-exilic genealogies highlights the meticulous nature of the biblical record and God's comprehensive plan for the restoration of His people. The name, despite its potentially negative etymological connotation, underscores the principle of divine inclusion, demonstrating that individuals from diverse backgrounds, even those with challenging ancestral names, are integral to the covenant community and play a vital role in the service and worship of God.
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