apparently from the same as זִיז; prominence; Ziza, the name of two Israelites; Ziza.
Transliteration:Zîyzâʼ
Pronunciation:zee-zaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma זִיזָא (Zîyzâʼ), transliterated as Ziza (Strong's H2124), functions exclusively as a proper noun within the biblical text. Its base definition is given as "prominence." This meaning is derived apparently from the same root as זִיז (`{{H2123}}`), which can denote "abundance," "fulness," or "that which moves," often referring to wild beasts of the field. The connection to "prominence" for Ziza suggests a characteristic of standing out, being conspicuous, or perhaps possessing an abundance of a particular quality or position. As a personal name, its semantic range is fixed by its etymological root and the specific individuals who bore it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ziza (`{{H2124}}`) appears in the Old Testament referring to two distinct individuals, both Levites:
1. **A Gershonite Levite:** Ziza is mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 23:10]] as a son of Shimei, a descendant of Gershon, the son of Levi. His name appears in the context of King David's organization of the Levites for temple service. The passage states, "The sons of Shimei were Jahath, Zina, Jeush, and Beriah. These four were the sons of Shimei. Jahath was the chief, and Ziza the second. But Jeush and Beriah did not have many sons, so they were counted as one family for registration." While some manuscripts or translations might render his name as Zina or Zizah in [[1 Chronicles 23:11]], the context places him squarely within the Levitical lineage, indicating his role and position within the structured service of the tabernacle/temple. His inclusion in this genealogical record underscores the importance of lineage and order in the divine administration of worship.
2. **A Temple Administrator:** Ziza is also found in [[2 Chronicles 31:10-15]] as a chief among the Levites during the reign of King Hezekiah. He is identified as the son of Shiphi and served as an overseer of the dedicated gifts brought to the temple. The passage details the faithful administration of tithes and offerings: "And over these were Conaniah the Levite, the chief, and Shimei his brother was second; and Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismachiah, Mahath, and Benaiah were overseers under the hand of Conaniah and Shimei his brother, by the appointment of King Hezekiah and Azariah the chief officer of the house of God. Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the doorkeeper at the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the contributions of the Lord and the most holy things. Under him were Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their faithful office, to distribute to their brethren by divisions, to the great as well as to the small; besides their registration by genealogy of males from three years old and upward—all who entered the house of the Lord for their daily portion, for their service in their offices according to their divisions; and also to the priests who were registered by genealogy, and to the Levites from twenty years old and upward in their offices by their divisions; and to those registered by genealogy among all their little ones, their wives, their sons, and their daughters through all the assembly, for they faithfully consecrated themselves in holiness. Moreover, for the sons of Aaron, the priests, who were in the fields of the common lands of their cities, in every city, there were men who were designated by name to distribute portions to every male among the priests and to everyone among the Levites who was registered by genealogy. And Ziza the son of Shiphi, and Azariah, and Jehiel, and Jahath, and Eliel, and Ismachiah, and Mahath, and Benaiah, were overseers under the hand of Conaniah and Shimei his brother, by the appointment of King Hezekiah and Azariah the chief officer of the house of God." This Ziza held a position of significant trust and responsibility, overseeing the storage and distribution of sacred provisions, highlighting his integrity and faithfulness in service to God and the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root from which Ziza (`{{H2124}}`) is derived: זִיז (`{{H2123}}`). This noun signifies "abundance," "fulness," or "that which moves," often referring to wild creatures (e.g., [[Psalm 50:11]], [[Psalm 80:13]]). The connection of "prominence" for the name Ziza could thus imply a person who stands out, perhaps due to a "fullness" of character, a significant "abundance" of responsibility, or a notable presence.
Conceptually, the name Ziza links to:
* **Service and Stewardship:** Both individuals named Ziza are associated with Levitical service, one in genealogical order, the other in practical administration. This highlights themes of dedication, responsibility, and faithfulness in handling sacred duties and resources.
* **Divine Order and Lineage:** The first Ziza's inclusion in a Levitical genealogy underscores the importance of God's established order for His people and the continuity of covenant service through generations.
* **Integrity and Trustworthiness:** The second Ziza's role as an overseer of temple provisions speaks to the high standard of integrity required for those entrusted with God's house and the offerings of His people.
* **Blessing and Provision:** The root meaning of "abundance" (from `{{H2123}}`) might subtly suggest that those bearing the name Ziza were either blessed with a prominent role or were instrumental in ensuring the "abundance" of provisions for the priests and Levites, thereby facilitating the regular worship of God.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the theological significance of Ziza (`{{H2124}}`) is primarily derived from the roles and character of the individuals bearing the name, viewed through the lens of its etymological meaning. The name "Prominence" itself suggests a divine appointment to a notable position or a life marked by significant contribution within God's covenant people.
The first Ziza, a Levite in the genealogical records, signifies the divine establishment of order and the importance of lineage in the service of God. His place within the Levitical structure underscores the principle that God calls and sets apart individuals for specific roles in His worship and administration, ensuring continuity and proper function within the community.
The second Ziza, the temple administrator during Hezekiah's reforms, embodies faithfulness and integrity in stewardship. His role in overseeing the temple offerings is a testament to the biblical emphasis on accountability and purity in handling sacred things. This Ziza's service contributed directly to the revival of proper worship and the well-being of the priestly and Levitical families, reflecting God's provision and the human responsibility to manage His blessings wisely. Theologically, his example highlights that even in seemingly administrative roles, there is profound spiritual significance, as these tasks facilitate the spiritual health and worship life of the nation.
In both instances, the name Ziza, with its connotation of "prominence" or "abundance," subtly points to individuals who, by divine providence, were elevated to positions of trust and significance, contributing faithfully to the ordered life and worship of Israel. Their lives, though briefly mentioned, serve as examples of dedicated service within God's overarching plan for His people.
### Summary
Ziza (`{{H2124}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "prominence," derived from a root (`{{H2123}}`) associated with "abundance" or "that which moves." The name is borne by two distinct Levites in the Old Testament, each contributing to our understanding of service and order within ancient Israel.
The first Ziza, a Gershonite Levite mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 23:10]], appears within the genealogical records of those appointed for temple service, highlighting the importance of lineage and divine order in the Levitical priesthood.
The second Ziza, a son of Shiphi, is recorded in [[2 Chronicles 31:11-15]] as a faithful overseer of temple offerings during King Hezekiah's reign. His role demonstrates integrity, trustworthiness, and diligent stewardship in the administration of sacred resources, crucial for the proper functioning of worship and the support of those dedicated to God's service.
Collectively, the occurrences of the name Ziza underscore the biblical value placed on individuals who, by divine calling, held positions of significance and responsibility within the community of faith, contributing to the structured worship and administrative integrity of God's people. Their lives, though briefly recounted, exemplify dedicated service and faithfulness within God's established order.
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