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).
Transliteration:zâvîyth
Pronunciation:zaw-veeth'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H2106, זָוִית (zâvîyth), carries the primary meaning of an "angle" or "corner," particularly one that projects or stands out. Its etymological root is suggested to be related to זִו (ziv), which implies prominence or brightness, lending a sense of distinctness to the corner. Beyond a mere geometric point, זָוִית extends by implication to denote a structural element: a "corner-column" or "anta," and by extension, a "cornerstone." This semantic progression highlights an object's position as a key, visible, and often supporting part of a larger structure. It is not merely an edge, but a significant, projecting feature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H2106 appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance offering unique contextual insights:
1. **[[Zechariah 9:15]]**: "The LORD of hosts will defend them; and they shall devour, and subdue with sling stones; and they shall drink, and make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar."
In this prophetic passage, זָוִית refers to the "corners" of the altar. The imagery depicts a scene of divine victory and abundance. Being "filled... as the corners of the altar" suggests a complete saturation or overflowing. The corners of the altar, especially the "horns," were prominent features, places where blood was applied during sacrifice, symbolizing the full extent of atonement or dedication. Here, it conveys a sense of ultimate fulfillment or complete drenching in the context of God's blessing and the defeat of enemies.
2. **[[Psalm 144:12]]**: "That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace."
Here, זָוִית is used metaphorically to describe "daughters" as "corner stones" (or perhaps more accurately, "corner pillars" or "ornamental columns"). This is a powerful and affirming metaphor. Daughters are depicted not merely as beautiful adornments but as essential, structurally significant elements, like the finely crafted corner pillars that lend both strength and aesthetic grandeur to a palace. The phrase "polished after the similitude of a palace" emphasizes their beauty, refinement, and readiness to contribute to the stability and splendor of the household or community. This verse elevates the role of women, portraying them as vital to the integrity and beauty of the family "palace."
### Related Words & Concepts
While זָוִית specifically denotes a projecting corner or column, it relates to broader architectural and metaphorical concepts in the Hebrew Bible:
* פִּנָּה (pinnâh, `{{H6438}}`): This is the more common Hebrew word for "corner" or "cornerstone." While both H2106 and H6438 can refer to a cornerstone, פִּנָּה often carries a stronger connotation of a foundational, pivotal stone, especially in theological contexts (e.g., the rejected stone becoming the chief cornerstone). זָוִית emphasizes the *projecting* or *ornamental* aspect of the corner, often a visible structural column, whereas פִּנָּה can refer to the more fundamental, less visible corner of a foundation.
* עַמּוּד (ʿammûd, `{{H5982}}`): This word means "pillar" or "column." The implied meaning of זָוִית as a "corner-column" connects it semantically to the idea of a supporting pillar.
* אֶבֶן (ʾeven, `{{H68}}`): "Stone," which forms the basis for terms like "cornerstone" (אֶבֶן פִּנָּה).
* Concepts of strength, stability, beauty, and prominence are inherent in the usage of זָוִית.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H2106 emerges primarily from its metaphorical usage in [[Psalm 144:12]]. By portraying daughters as "corner stones" or "corner pillars" of a palace, the text imparts profound value and dignity to them. This metaphor suggests:
* **Structural Importance**: Daughters are not peripheral but integral to the strength and stability of the family unit, which is metaphorically presented as a "palace." They are foundational to the well-being and future of the lineage.
* **Beauty and Refinement**: The "polished" aspect highlights their beauty, grace, and readiness to contribute to the aesthetic and moral excellence of the home. This beauty is not superficial but contributes to the overall glory of the "palace."
* **Prominence and Visibility**: As projecting corner-columns, they are visible and significant, representing the honor and standing of the family.
* **Divine Blessing**: In both occurrences, זָוִית is set within contexts of divine blessing and prosperity. In Zechariah, it denotes the fullness of God's defense and provision. In Psalm 144, it is part of a prayer for the flourishing of a blessed household under God's favor.
While זָוִית is not directly used to refer to Christ as the cornerstone (unlike פִּנָּה), its contribution to the architectural metaphor of a well-built and divinely blessed structure resonates with the broader biblical understanding of God's people as a spiritual house (e.g., [[1 Peter 2:5]]).
### Summary
The Hebrew word H2106, זָוִית (zâvîyth), signifies a projecting "angle" or "corner," extending to denote a structural "corner-column" or "cornerstone." Its limited but impactful biblical occurrences reveal its dual significance. In [[Zechariah 9:15]], it describes the "corners of the altar," symbolizing complete saturation or fullness in the context of divine provision and victory. More profoundly, in [[Psalm 144:12]], it metaphorically portrays "daughters as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace," elevating their role to one of structural importance, beauty, and prominence within the family and society. Thus, זָוִית points to vital, often visible, elements that contribute to the strength, stability, and aesthetic glory of a structure, whether literal or metaphorical, underscoring themes of divine blessing and the integral value of key components within God's ordered creation.
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