of uncertain origin; Zocheth, an Israelite; Zoheth.
Transliteration:Zôwchêth
Pronunciation:zo-khayth'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H2105 (זוֹחֵת, Zôwchêth) functions exclusively as a proper noun, designating a specific individual within the genealogies recorded in the Old Testament. Its base definition indicates an "uncertain origin," meaning the etymological root and any inherent semantic meaning beyond the name itself are not clearly discernible from the linguistic evidence. Unlike many Hebrew names that carry transparent meanings (e.g., "David" meaning "beloved," or "Israel" meaning "he strives with God"), Zôwchêth does not immediately convey a particular characteristic or theological concept through its etymology. Therefore, its primary and singular semantic range is simply the identification of the person bearing this name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H2105 (Zôwchêth) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah within the book of 1 Chronicles.
* **[[1 Chronicles 4:20]]**: "And the sons of Shimon were Amnon, and Rinnah, Ben-hanan, and Tilon. And the sons of Ishi were Zoheth, and Ben-zoheth."
In this solitary occurrence, Zocheth is identified as a son of Ishi, and a brother to Ben-zoheth (literally "son of Zocheth"). This places him within the lineage of Judah, specifically among the descendants of Shimon, a son of Judah. The context is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously document the tribal divisions and familial lines. The Chronicler's emphasis on such detailed lists underscores the importance of lineage for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, and continuity within the covenant community, particularly after the Babylonian exile when such records were crucial for re-establishing the nation. While Zocheth himself does not participate in any narrative action, his inclusion signifies his place within the divinely ordered structure of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that H2105 (Zôwchêth) is a proper noun with an uncertain etymology, direct semantic relatives are not applicable in the typical sense of shared root meanings. However, its occurrence points to several broader biblical concepts:
* **Genealogy (יוּחַס, `{{H3187}}`):** The presence of Zôwchêth highlights the biblical emphasis on detailed genealogical records. These lists served not merely as historical archives but as theological statements, affirming God's faithfulness to His covenant promises through generations, establishing tribal identity, and tracing the lineage that would ultimately lead to the Messiah. The meticulousness with which names like Zocheth are preserved underscores the value placed on every individual within the divine plan.
* **Tribal Identity:** As a descendant of Judah, Zocheth's inclusion reinforces the structure and continuity of the twelve tribes. The Chronicler's focus on Judah, in particular, points to the future Davidic monarchy and the Messianic line.
* **Divine Remembrance:** The very act of recording and preserving the name of an individual like Zocheth, who otherwise remains obscure, speaks to the biblical theme of God's comprehensive knowledge and remembrance of His people, even those who might seem minor in the grand narrative.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H2105 (Zôwchêth) lies not in any inherent meaning of the name itself, but in its very presence within the sacred text.
1. **God's Sovereignty in History:** The inclusion of Zocheth, alongside countless other individuals in the genealogies, demonstrates God's sovereign hand guiding the course of human history, meticulously preserving the lines through which His covenant promises would be fulfilled. Every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, plays a part in this unfolding divine drama.
2. **The Value of Every Individual:** Even a seemingly insignificant name like Zocheth, appearing only once without further narrative, conveys the theological truth that every person within God's covenant community is known and accounted for. This resonates with the broader biblical teaching that God knows each of His sheep by name (cf. [[John 10:3]]).
3. **Continuity of the Covenant:** The genealogical lists, including Zocheth's entry, served to affirm the unbroken continuity of the covenant people of Israel, even through periods of hardship and exile. They provided a tangible link to the patriarchs and a foundation for the community's identity and future hope.
4. **The Chronicler's Purpose:** The Chronicler's inclusion of such detailed genealogies, including seemingly minor figures, underscores a theological agenda to re-establish a sense of identity, continuity, and hope for the post-exilic community, reminding them of their heritage and God's enduring faithfulness to His people.
### Summary
H2105 (זוֹחֵת, Zôwchêth) is a Hebrew proper noun, appearing uniquely in [[1 Chronicles 4:20]] as an individual within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Judah. Its etymological origin is uncertain, meaning its significance is not derived from a decipherable root meaning but from its contextual placement. As a figure in the meticulous records of the Chronicler, Zocheth's inclusion highlights the biblical emphasis on preserving lineage for tribal identity, inheritance, and the continuity of the covenant community. Theologically, his presence, however brief, underscores God's meticulous knowledge and remembrance of every individual within His people, His sovereign guidance of history, and the enduring nature of His covenant promises across generations. He serves as a quiet testament to the comprehensive scope of divine providence and the value placed on each member of the chosen nation.
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