the same as זְאֵב; Zeeb, a Midianitish prince; Zeeb.
Transliteration:Zᵉʼêb
Pronunciation:zeh-abe'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H2062}}` זְאֵב (Zᵉʼêb) is a proper noun, specifically the name of a Midianite prince. Its core meaning is derived directly from the common noun זְאֵב (ze'ev), which means "wolf." Therefore, the name "Zeeb" inherently carries the semantic connotations of a wolf: ferocity, cunning, predatory nature, and perhaps a pack-leader's aggressive disposition. While its primary function in the biblical text is to identify a specific historical individual, the etymological root enriches the understanding of his character and role within the narrative, portraying him as a dangerous and destructive figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zeeb appears in the book of Judges and once in the Psalms. He is consistently presented as one of two Midianite princes, the other being Oreb (`{{H6159}}`), whose name means "raven." This pairing of "wolf" and "raven" powerfully symbolizes the predatory and destructive nature of these leaders.
1. **[[Judges 7:25]]**: This verse describes the capture and execution of Zeeb by the men of Ephraim. They bring his head to Gideon, signifying the complete and decisive victory over this formidable enemy. The location of his defeat is so significant that it becomes known as the "winepress of Zeeb," a permanent memorial to his downfall. This detail underscores the totality of his defeat and the public nature of divine judgment.
2. **[[Judges 8:3]]**: Gideon uses the capture of Oreb and Zeeb as an example of Ephraim's superior "gleaning" (contribution) compared to his own "grape gathering" (initial victory), highlighting the importance of their role in the overall triumph against Midian. This demonstrates Zeeb's status as a key leader whose defeat was essential to breaking Midianite power.
3. **[[Psalm 83:11]]**: In this communal lament and prayer for deliverance, the psalmist invokes God to deal with the current enemies of Israel "as with Oreb and with Zeeb." This plea elevates the historical defeat of these Midianite princes to an archetype of divine judgment against oppressors. It signifies that their destruction was a memorable and definitive act of God's saving power, serving as a pattern for future interventions.
Across these occurrences, Zeeb is consistently portrayed as a significant leader of Israel's oppressors, whose defeat is crucial to God's deliverance and serves as a powerful testament to divine justice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the common noun זְאֵב (ze'ev, "wolf"), from which the proper noun `{{H2062}}` Zeeb derives. This connection is vital for understanding the symbolic weight of the name. Other related concepts and names include:
* `{{H6159}}` Oreb (עֹרֵב): The other Midianite prince, whose name means "raven," forming a predatory pair with Zeeb.
* Midianites (`{{H4080}}` מִדְיָן): The people group Zeeb belonged to, known for their severe oppression of Israel.
* Gideon (`{{H1405}}` גִּדְעוֹן): The judge raised by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites, representing the instrument of divine deliverance.
* Concepts of oppression, divine judgment, deliverance, and the symbolic representation of evil or destructive forces through animal imagery.
### Theological Significance
The figure of Zeeb carries profound theological significance within the biblical narrative:
* **Divine Judgment and Deliverance:** Zeeb's defeat is a clear demonstration of God's active intervention in history to judge the oppressors of His people and to secure their deliverance. The explicit prayer in [[Psalm 83:11]] for God to act "as with Oreb and with Zeeb" elevates this historical event to a paradigmatic example of divine justice.
* **Symbolism of Names:** The name "Zeeb" (Wolf) is not merely an identifier but a characterization. It highlights the predatory, destructive nature of Israel's enemies. Their defeat, therefore, symbolizes the triumph of God's shepherd-like protection over the ravening forces that seek to devour His flock.
* **Consequences of Oppression:** The gruesome end of Zeeb, particularly at a location named after him (the "winepress of Zeeb"), serves as a stark warning to those who oppress God's chosen people. It signifies the crushing and complete judgment that awaits those who stand against the Lord and His purposes.
* **God's Sovereignty and Use of the Weak:** The victory over powerful figures like Zeeb, achieved through Gideon's small and unconventional army, underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to use seemingly insignificant means to accomplish mighty deeds, ensuring that the glory belongs to Him alone.
### Summary
The Hebrew lemma `{{H2062}}` זְאֵב (Zᵉʼêb) refers to a Midianite prince whose name literally means "wolf." He is prominently featured in the book of Judges as a key leader in the Midianite oppression of Israel, alongside Oreb ("raven"). His capture and execution by the Ephraimites at the "winepress of Zeeb" ([[Judges 7:25]]) represents a decisive moment in Gideon's victory and serves as a powerful symbol of divine judgment. The invocation of his defeat in [[Psalm 83:11]] further solidifies Zeeb's theological significance as an archetype of an enemy justly overthrown by God's power. Zeeb's story underscores themes of divine justice, the consequences of oppression, and God's unwavering commitment to the deliverance of His covenant people from predatory forces.
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