from an unused root (meaning to flit); a fly (especially one of a stinging nature); fly.
Transliteration:zᵉbûwb
Pronunciation:zeb-oob'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term זְבוּב (zᵉbûwb), Strong's number `{{H2070}}`, derives from an unused root believed to convey the sense of "to flit" or "to dart." This etymological root aptly describes the characteristic movement of the creature it denotes: a fly. The primary definition indicates "a fly," with a specific nuance often implying "one of a stinging nature." While the general category of "fly" encompasses various winged insects, the potential for a stinging or biting quality suggests a creature that is not merely an annoyance but capable of causing irritation, pain, or even damage. This inherent quality of the word hints at its later symbolic use, where something seemingly small can have a disproportionately negative impact.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word זְבוּב (zᵉbûwb) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Ecclesiastes:
* **[[Ecclesiastes 10:1]]**: "Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to stink and putrefy: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour."
In this sole occurrence, זְבוּב is employed as a powerful metaphor. The "dead flies" (זְבוּבִים מָוֶת) are depicted as corrupting something precious and fragrant—the "ointment of the apothecary." The presence of even a few deceased insects, despite their diminutive size, leads to the putrefaction and ruin of the valuable perfume. The Preacher (Qoheleth) then draws a direct parallel: just as these small, dead flies spoil the ointment, "a little folly" (סִכְלוּת מְעָט) can utterly mar the reputation of one renowned for "wisdom and honour." The context underscores the fragility of human reputation and the insidious power of minor imperfections or unwise actions to undermine significant achievements or moral standing. The "stinging nature" aspect of the fly, while not literally present in the dead state, is metaphorically realized in the "sting" or damage that folly inflicts upon reputation.
### Related Words & Concepts
While זְבוּב (zᵉbûwb) is unique in its specific form and singular biblical occurrence, it connects to broader semantic fields and theological concepts. Conceptually, it relates to:
* **Pests and Impurities**: The idea of small creatures causing significant damage or defilement is present elsewhere in Scripture. Though a different Hebrew word, the swarms of flies (עָרוֹב, `{{H6157}}`) in the plague narratives of Exodus ([[Exodus 8:21-31]]) serve as divine judgment, highlighting the disruptive and destructive power of insects.
* **Corruption and Decay**: The imagery of something precious being spoiled by something seemingly insignificant points to the pervasive theme of corruption. This can be physical decay (like the ointment) or moral/reputational decay.
* **The Insidious Nature of Sin**: "A little folly" functions similarly to a small sin or moral lapse. Just as a small amount of leaven affects the whole lump ([[Galatians 5:9]]), or a tiny crack can compromise a foundation, the verse with זְבוּב highlights how seemingly minor transgressions or character flaws can have disproportionately devastating consequences for one's integrity and standing before God and humanity.
* **Wisdom Literature's Concerns**: Ecclesiastes, as wisdom literature, frequently explores the complexities and paradoxes of life. The verse with זְבוּב perfectly encapsulates the Preacher's observations on the unpredictable and often frustrating ways in which human endeavors and reputations can be undermined.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of זְבוּב (zᵉbûwb) in [[Ecclesiastes 10:1]] lies primarily in its symbolic representation of the corrupting power of "a little folly." This single verse offers profound insights into several theological truths:
1. **The Fragility of Reputation and Wisdom**: It highlights that even a lifetime of accumulated wisdom, honor, and good reputation can be swiftly undone by a single, seemingly minor act of foolishness. This serves as a sober warning against complacency and moral laxity.
2. **The Pervasiveness of Sin/Folly**: The "dead flies" represent the pervasive nature of sin and imperfection in a fallen world. No matter how carefully one cultivates virtue, the potential for corruption, often from an unexpected or seemingly insignificant source, remains.
3. **The Insidious Nature of Decay**: The imagery illustrates how decay and moral decline often begin subtly. Just as dead flies are small and easily overlooked, so too can minor compromises or foolish choices be dismissed, only to lead to significant spiritual or moral putrefaction.
4. **Divine Order and Consequence**: While not explicitly stated as divine judgment, the principle articulated reflects a divine order where actions, even seemingly minor ones, have consequences. God's moral universe ensures that folly, no matter how small, ultimately detracts from true wisdom and honor.
5. **A Call to Vigilance**: The verse implicitly calls believers to constant vigilance over their thoughts, words, and deeds, recognizing that even a "little folly" can have devastating effects on their testimony and relationship with God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word זְבוּב (zᵉbûwb, `{{H2070}}`) denotes a "fly," particularly one with a "stinging nature." Its singular appearance in [[Ecclesiastes 10:1]] carries profound symbolic weight. Here, "dead flies" serve as a vivid metaphor for the corrupting influence of "a little folly" on a person's reputation for wisdom and honor. This imagery underscores the fragility of human achievements and the insidious power of seemingly minor imperfections or unwise actions to lead to significant moral and reputational decay. The theological significance extends to highlighting the pervasive nature of sin, the need for constant vigilance, and the principle that even small acts of folly can have disproportionately destructive consequences, affecting one's standing before God and humanity.
TRV