from זָכַר; memorable; Zicri, the name of twelve Israelites; Zichri.
Transliteration:Zikrîy
Pronunciation:zik-ree'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun זִכְרִי (Zikrîy, `{{H2147}}`) is directly derived from the verbal root זָכַר (zakar, `{{H2142}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to remember," "to recall," "to be mindful of," or "to mention." Consequently, Zikrîy inherently signifies "memorable," "one who remembers," or "one who is remembered." As a personal name, it encapsulates the hope or declaration that the individual would leave a lasting impression, be recalled for their deeds, lineage, or by divine favor. The passive sense, "to be remembered," is particularly potent, implying a desire for enduring legacy or, more profoundly, for remembrance by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zikrîy (`{{H2147}}`) appears numerous times in the Hebrew Bible, attributed to at least twelve different individuals. These occurrences span various books and contexts, highlighting the name's prevalence and the diverse roles held by those bearing it:
* **Levitical Lineage:** In [[Exodus 6:21]], Zikri is listed as a son of Izhar, a Kohathite Levite, placing him within the priestly line of Aaron's family, though not directly involved in the rebellion of his brother Korah. Another Zikri is mentioned as a Levite of the sons of Asaph, a gatekeeper, in [[1 Chronicles 9:15]] and [[Nehemiah 11:9]], indicating roles in temple service and administration.
* **Tribal Leaders and Officials:** Zikri appears as a Benjamite, a son of Shashak, a head of a father's house in [[1 Chronicles 8:23]]. In [[1 Chronicles 27:16]], he is identified as the ruler of the Reubenites during David's reign, a significant administrative position.
* **Military and Political Figures:** Under King Jehoshaphat of Judah, Zikri is listed as a chief of Judah, a mighty man of valor, in [[2 Chronicles 17:16]]. Perhaps most notably, a Zikri is one of the captains of hundreds who assisted Jehoiada the priest in overthrowing Athaliah and restoring Joash to the throne in [[2 Chronicles 23:1]], playing a pivotal role in a critical moment of Judah's history.
* **Adversarial Context:** Uniquely, [[2 Chronicles 28:7]] records a Zikri, a mighty warrior of Ephraim, who, during Pekah's invasion of Judah, killed Maaseiah, the king's son, and other prominent figures. This instance demonstrates that while the name means "memorable," the remembrance can also be for acts of hostility or as an enemy.
Across these diverse contexts, the common thread is that individuals named Zikri often held positions of some importance or were involved in significant historical events, thus ensuring their names were indeed "memorable" and preserved within the biblical narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to Zikrîy (`{{H2147}}`) is its root verb, זָכַר (zakar, `{{H2142}}`), "to remember." This root is fundamental to understanding the semantic field of Zikrîy.
Other significant related terms include:
* **זֵכֶר (zeker, `{{H2146}}`):** A noun meaning "remembrance," "memorial," or "mention." This term is very close in form and meaning to Zikrîy, often referring to that which causes something to be remembered or the act of remembering itself.
* **זִכָּרוֹן (zikkaron, `{{H2149}}`):** Another noun derived from the same root, also meaning "memorial" or "remembrance," often referring to a tangible sign or ritual act designed to keep something in memory (e.g., the Passover, the stones of the ephod).
These linguistic connections highlight the pervasive theme of remembrance in ancient Israelite thought and culture. Beyond direct lexical links, Zikrîy is conceptually related to:
* **Divine Remembrance:** God's remembering of His covenant, His people, and His promises (e.g., [[Genesis 8:1]], [[Exodus 2:24]], [[Psalm 105:8]]). This is a foundational theological concept.
* **Human Remembrance:** The imperative for humanity to remember God's mighty acts, His laws, and His covenant (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 8:2]], [[Psalm 77:11]]).
* **Name and Legacy:** In ancient Israel, a "name" (שֵׁם, shem, `{{H8034}}`) was inextricably linked to one's character, reputation, and lasting legacy. To be "memorable" was to have one's name endure, ensuring continuity and significance.
### Theological Significance
The name Zikrîy, meaning "memorable," reflects a profound human desire for enduring significance and a lasting impact, particularly within a cultural context that highly valued lineage, reputation, and continuity. From a theological perspective, the concept of "remembrance" is central to the biblical narrative. God's act of remembering His covenant (`{{H2142}}`) is a powerful demonstration of His faithfulness, steadfast love, and unwavering commitment to His promises. For a human to be named "memorable" could thus be an expression of parental hope that their child would live a life worthy of divine or human remembrance, perhaps for their piety, service, or contributions to the community.
Conversely, it could also express a deep-seated fear of oblivion, a desire for one's name not to be "blotted out" in a society where one's name was synonymous with one's very existence and legacy. The preservation of the various Zikris' names in the biblical record, particularly those who served in the tabernacle/temple or in leadership roles, suggests that these individuals were indeed "memorable" within their historical and spiritual contexts. This speaks to God's meticulous providence in preserving the record of His people, including those who served Him in various capacities. Even the Zikri who acted as an enemy in [[2 Chronicles 28:7]] is remembered, albeit for negative actions, underscoring that remembrance itself is a powerful force, whether for good or ill. Ultimately, the name points to the inherent human longing for significance and the divine valuing of human lives within the grand tapestry of redemptive history.
### Summary
Zikrîy (`{{H2147}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "memorable," directly derived from the root זָכַר (zakar, `{{H2142}}`), "to remember." It designates at least twelve different individuals in the Old Testament, often identifying those in significant roles such as Levites, tribal leaders, or military figures, whose names are preserved in the biblical record. The name embodies the ancient Israelite cultural value placed on a lasting legacy and the human desire for one's life to be remembered, whether by fellow humans or, more importantly, by God. Theologically, Zikrîy connects deeply with the broader biblical theme of divine remembrance—God's faithfulness to His covenant—and the human aspiration for a life worthy of being recalled in a positive light, signifying an enduring place within God's unfolding redemptive plan.
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