probably from the root of זִיז; prominent; Zaza, an Israelite; Zaza.
Transliteration:zâzâʼ
Pronunciation:zaw-zaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma זָזָא (zâzâʼ), transliterated as Zaza, is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal name. Its Strong's number is H2117. The base definition indicates that it is "probably from the root of זִיז," meaning "prominent." The root זִיז (zîyz), related to `{{H2123}}`, carries connotations of abundance, fullness, or something that stands out. Thus, the name Zaza itself suggests an individual who is notable, distinguished, or perhaps one who "stands out" in some manner, reflecting a quality of prominence or abundance. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its application as a name, but its etymological root provides insight into the potential hopes or characteristics associated with the individual or their lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zaza (זָזָא) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 2:33]]. In this verse, Zaza is listed as one of the sons of Jonathan, who was a son of Jada, a descendant of Jerahmeel. Jerahmeel himself was a son of Hezron, who was a son of Perez, one of the sons of Judah. The full lineage provided is: Judah > Perez > Hezron > Jerahmeel > Jada > Jonathan > Zaza. This places Zaza firmly within the intricate genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. The context of this sole occurrence is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously trace the lineage within a specific branch of the tribe of Judah. There is no narrative or descriptive information provided about Zaza's life, actions, or character. His inclusion is solely for the purpose of maintaining the historical and familial record, a common feature in the books of Chronicles, which emphasize the continuity of Israel's tribal and royal lines.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to זָזָא (zâzâʼ) is זִיז (zîyz), referenced by Strong's number `{{H2123}}`. This root carries the core meaning of "abundance," "fullness," or something "prominent." For instance, it can refer to a full breast (as a symbol of abundance) or, as a proper noun, to a specific geographical location, the Ascent of Ziz, mentioned in [[2 Chronicles 20:16]]. The connection between the name Zaza and the concept of "prominence" or "abundance" suggests that the name may have been given with the hope or expectation that the individual would embody such qualities, or perhaps it reflected a perceived characteristic of the family line. While Zaza himself does not feature prominently in the biblical narrative, the etymological link to a concept of standing out or being abundant is significant.
### Theological Significance
Despite the singular, non-narrative mention of Zaza in the biblical text, his inclusion carries broader theological significance inherent in the meticulous preservation of biblical genealogies.
1. **Divine Providence in Lineage:** The detailed recording of names like Zaza, even those without an associated narrative, underscores God's sovereign hand in preserving the lineage of Judah. This meticulous record-keeping was crucial for establishing the legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty and, ultimately, for tracing the messianic line leading to Jesus Christ. Every name, no matter how seemingly obscure, contributes to the unbroken chain of God's covenant faithfulness.
2. **God's Knowledge and Remembrance:** The fact that Zaza is named in the inspired Word of God, even without further detail, speaks to God's comprehensive knowledge of every individual. It suggests that no person, however seemingly insignificant in the grand scope of history, is forgotten by the Creator. This reflects the biblical truth that God knows all His people by name.
3. **The Importance of Genealogy in Salvation History:** Genealogies in Scripture are not mere dry lists; they are foundational to understanding God's unfolding plan of salvation. They establish identity, inheritance, and the fulfillment of prophetic promises. Zaza, as a descendant of Judah, is a small but integral part of this grand tapestry, demonstrating the divine precision in orchestrating the historical circumstances leading to the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes.
### Summary
The name זָזָא (zâzâʼ), H2117, is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "prominent," derived from the root זִיז (zîyz) `{{H2123}}`. It appears only once in the biblical record, in [[1 Chronicles 2:33]], where Zaza is listed as a son of Jonathan within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Judah. While Zaza himself is not a prominent figure in any biblical narrative, his inclusion highlights the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, which are crucial for tracing the lineage of God's chosen people and, ultimately, the messianic line. The preservation of his name, like countless others, underscores God's providential care in overseeing the historical development of His covenant people and His comprehensive knowledge of every individual within His divine plan of salvation.
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