from an unused root apparently meaning to be conspicuous; fulness of the breast; also a moving creature; abundance, wild beast.
Transliteration:zîyz
Pronunciation:zeez
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2123}}` *zîyz* derives from an unused root, which is posited to mean "to be conspicuous." This underlying notion contributes to its primary semantic ranges. The base definition reveals two distinct, yet potentially related, facets. First, it signifies "fulness of the breast," which can be understood as abundance, richness, or ample provision. This aspect suggests a sense of overflowing plenty or robust nourishment. Second, and more commonly in biblical usage, it refers to "a moving creature" or "wild beast." This meaning aligns with the idea of something prominent or noticeable in the landscape, often indicating the vibrant, untamed life of the wilderness. The connection between "fulness of the breast" and "wild beast/abundance" might lie in the concept of a land teeming with robust, wild life, or the inherent vigor and plenitude found in nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H2123}}` *zîyz* appears in a limited number of biblical passages, primarily in the poetic and prophetic books, where its dual meanings are expressed.
In the context of "wild beast" or "creature of the field," it emphasizes God's comprehensive sovereignty over all creation:
* [[Psalm 50:11]]: "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and the wild beasts of the field are mine." Here, *zîyz* (translated "wild beasts of the field") underscores God's absolute ownership and intimate knowledge of all living creatures, highlighting His omnipotence and universal dominion.
* [[Psalm 80:13]]: "The boar from the forest ravages it, and the wild beasts of the field feed on it." In this lament, *zîyz* (again, "wild beasts of the field") functions as an agent of divine judgment or a symbol of desolation inflicted upon Israel, depicted as a ravaged vine. This usage connects the word to themes of divine discipline and the consequences of disobedience.
* [[Isaiah 18:6]]: "They will be left together for the birds of prey of the mountains and for the beasts of the earth; and the birds of prey will summer on them, and all the beasts of the earth will winter on them." Here, *zîyz* ("beasts of the earth") refers to creatures that will consume the fallen, symbolizing utter destruction and abandonment, a stark image of judgment.
In the context of "abundance" or "richness," it conveys a sense of overflowing blessing and comfort:
* [[Isaiah 66:11]]: "that you may nurse and be satisfied from her comforting breasts, that you may drink deeply with delight from her abundant glory." While some translations render this as "abundance of her glory" or "richness of her glory," the underlying Hebrew *zîyz* here connects to the "fulness of the breast" aspect of the definition. It metaphorically describes the overflowing comfort, peace, and prosperity that Jerusalem (Zion) will offer to her children in the eschatological age, akin to a mother nurturing her child. This usage highlights divine provision and nurturing care.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic range of `{{H2123}}` *zîyz* connects it to several other Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **For "wild beast":** It often appears alongside or in parallel with `{{H2416}}` *chayyah* (living creature, beast) and `{{H929}}` *behemah* (beast, cattle). While *chayyah* is a broader term for any living creature, and *behemah* often refers to domesticated animals or larger land animals, *zîyz* specifically emphasizes the untamed, wild aspect, often implying their presence in open fields or forests.
* **For "abundance/richness":** It shares conceptual space with words like `{{H7230}}` *rov* (multitude, abundance) or verbs like `{{H7235}}` *rabah* (to be great, multiply). Its unique contribution here is the underlying imagery of "fulness of the breast," suggesting a deeply nourishing, satisfying, and inherent richness.
* **Thematically:** The word relates to creation (God's dominion over all creatures), divine judgment (wild beasts as instruments of wrath), and divine blessing (the abundance of God's provision and comfort).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2123}}` *zîyz* is multifaceted, reflecting both the sovereignty of God over creation and His dealings with humanity.
Firstly, in its meaning of "wild beast," *zîyz* powerfully articulates God's absolute ownership and control over the natural world. As seen in [[Psalm 50:11]], even the most untamed creatures are His, subject to His will and purpose. This underscores divine omnipotence and serves as a reminder that all creation operates within the bounds of God's design.
Secondly, the use of *zîyz* as an agent of judgment, as in [[Psalm 80:13]] and [[Isaiah 18:6]], illustrates a theological principle where the created order can become an instrument of divine discipline. When humanity strays from God's covenant, the very elements of creation that were meant to sustain can turn against them, symbolizing a reversal of blessing and the consequences of sin.
Thirdly, the less common, but profoundly significant, meaning of "abundance" or "richness" (as in [[Isaiah 66:11]]) points to God's nurturing and providing nature. This metaphorical "fulness of the breast" evokes the deep comfort, peace, and overflowing blessings that God bestows upon His people, particularly in the context of eschatological restoration. It signifies a divine provision that is not merely sufficient but lavish and deeply satisfying, mirroring the intimate care of a mother. Thus, *zîyz* contributes to a holistic understanding of God as both sovereign judge and compassionate provider.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2123}}` *zîyz* carries a compelling dual semantic range: "wild beast" and "abundance/richness." As "wild beast," it consistently highlights God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, serving as a testament to His ownership and control, and at times, as an instrument of divine judgment. Its occurrences in the Psalms and Isaiah underscore the untamed yet subservient nature of these creatures to the Creator's will. As "abundance" or "richness," particularly in the context of [[Isaiah 66:11]], *zîyz* evokes the imagery of overflowing provision and deep comfort, akin to a mother's nourishing breast. This aspect reveals God's gracious and nurturing character, His desire to bless His people with profound satisfaction. Together, these meanings paint a picture of a God who is both majestic in His dominion over the wild and intimately generous in His provision, demonstrating His comprehensive relationship with His creation and His people.
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