apparently from the same root as זִו (in the sense of prominence); an angle (as projecting), i.e. (by implication) a corner-column (or anta); corner(stone).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâvîyth**, represented by `{{H2106}}`, refers to a corner-column or corner(stone). Based on a root word implying prominence, it denotes a projecting angle. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, yet it carries significant metaphorical weight in its contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H2106}}` offer distinct but complementary imagery. In Psalms, it is used to describe the ideal state for the daughters of Israel, that they "may be as **corner stones** `{{H2106}}`, polished after the similitude of a palace" [[Psalms 144:12]]. This paints a picture of beauty, stability, and high value. In Zechariah, the word appears in a description of God's people being filled with blessing, "as the **corners** `{{H2106}}` of the altar" [[Zechariah 9:15]], linking the term to a sacred space of worship and sacrifice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in these passages help illuminate the meaning of `{{H2106}}`:
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (daughter): This word is used for the women who are likened to corner stones in [[Psalms 144:12]]. It is a term of relationship used both literally and figuratively, as when Zion is called a "daughter" [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* `{{H1964}}` **hêykâl** (palace, temple): The corner stones in Psalms are described as being polished like those of a "palace". This term refers to a large public building, often God's temple, a place of beauty and holiness [[Psalms 65:4]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is the object whose "corners" are mentioned in [[Zechariah 9:15]]. The altar is a central element of worship, where sacrifices are brought to God [[Leviticus 17:11]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (stone): This general term for "stone" provides a foundation for the specific meaning of corner(stone). It is used for the "sling stones" in [[Zechariah 9:15]] and is also described as a "precious corner stone" for a foundation in Zion [[Isaiah 28:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2106}}` is found in its powerful metaphors for God's people.
* **Dignity and Foundational Value:** By comparing daughters to polished "corner stones" of a palace, the Psalmist assigns them a role of immense worth, structural importance, and refined beauty within the community [[Psalms 144:12]]. They are seen as essential to the strength and integrity of the household.
* **Sacred Fullness:** The image of the "corners of the altar" being filled suggests a complete and overflowing blessing from God [[Zechariah 9:15]]. It connects the people's restored state to the holiness and covenantal purpose of the altar itself.
* **Strength and Stability:** As an architectural term, a corner-column is a point of strength that joins and supports the entire structure. Metaphorically, this highlights the role of certain individuals or the community as a whole in providing stability and unity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2106}}` is more than a simple architectural term for a corner. Though used infrequently, it serves as a potent metaphor in Scripture. It transforms the image of a structural angle into a symbol of human value, beauty, and sacred completeness, illustrating how God views His people as foundational, precious, and integral to His glorious house.
TRV