by reduplication from זָלַל; tremulous, i.e. a twig; sprig.
Transliteration:zalzal
Pronunciation:zal-zal'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H2150}}` (זַלְזַל, zalzal) is a reduplicated form derived from the root `{{H2149}}` (זָלַל, zalal), which carries the core meanings of "to be light," "to shake," "to be contemptible," or "to be vile." The reduplication in "zalzal" intensifies or reiterates the notion of shaking or trembling, hence its base definition as "tremulous." When applied to a physical object, it describes a "twig" or "sprig," specifically emphasizing its delicate, flexible, and easily swayed nature. The "tremulous" quality thus refers to the way a small, tender branch might tremble or sway in the slightest breeze, or its inherent fragility and vulnerability. Its semantic range is therefore limited to a small, delicate, or easily moved shoot from a plant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2150}}` (זַלְזַל, zalzal) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel.
* **[[Ezekiel 17:9]]**: "Say, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: Will it prosper? Will he not pull up its roots and cut off its fruit, so that it withers? All its fresh *sprigs* will wither, and it will not take a strong arm or many people to pull it up by its roots.'"
In this singular occurrence, "zalzal" is found within a profound parable concerning two great eagles, a vine, and the cedar of Lebanon. The vine represents the kingdom of Judah, and its "sprigs" (זַלְזַל) symbolize its vulnerable and easily destroyed parts, particularly its people or its nascent strength. The context is one of divine judgment and impending desolation. The passage vividly describes the ease with which these "fresh sprigs" will wither without the need for significant human effort, underscoring the absolute power of God to bring about the downfall of a kingdom that has broken its covenant. The imagery emphasizes the fragility and impending doom of Judah, highlighting that its destruction is not merely possible but inevitable, and effortlessly executed by divine decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H2150}}` is its root, `{{H2149}}` (זָלַל, zalal), which informs the "tremulous" and "fragile" aspect of the "sprig." This root's semantic range of "lightness" or "worthlessness" subtly imbues the "zalzal" with a sense of insignificance or vulnerability.
Other Hebrew words for branches, shoots, or twigs, though not directly related etymologically, provide comparative context:
* `{{H6057}}` (עָנָף, anaf): A more general term for a branch.
* `{{H2156}}` (זְמוֹרָה, zmorah): Specifically a vine branch, often used in contexts of fruitfulness or pruning.
* `{{H5342}}` (נֵצֶר, netser): A shoot or branch, notably used in messianic prophecies (e.g., [[Isaiah 11:1]]).
* `{{H3241}}` (יֹנֶקֶת, yoneqeth): A suckling or young shoot, often depicting vulnerability or humble beginnings (e.g., [[Isaiah 53:2]]).
The concept of a "zalzal" is intimately tied to themes of fragility, vulnerability, judgment, and divine pruning. It stands in contrast to images of flourishing, deeply rooted trees or vines, symbolizing the precarious state of a nation or individual when divine favor is withdrawn.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H2150}}` (זַלְזַל) in [[Ezekiel 17:9]] carries profound theological weight.
* **Metaphor for Vulnerability and Judgment**: The "zalzal" serves as a potent metaphor for the extreme vulnerability of Judah, represented by the vine. It underscores that human strength, alliances, or perceived security are utterly insignificant when confronted with God's judgment. The ease with which these "sprigs" wither highlights the swift and effortless nature of divine retribution against a rebellious people.
* **Divine Sovereignty**: The image powerfully asserts God's absolute sovereignty over nations and their destinies. He does not require a "strong arm or many people" to bring about the downfall of those who defy Him; even the most delicate "sprigs" will wither at His command, demonstrating His uncontested power to establish and dismantle kingdoms.
* **Consequences of Disobedience**: The withered sprigs are a direct, visible consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness and rebellion against the covenant, as detailed in the broader context of Ezekiel 17. The parable illustrates that covenant breaking leads inevitably to a loss of divine blessing and a state of utter desolation.
* **Contrast with Enduring Life**: The ephemeral and easily withered nature of the "zalzal" stands in stark contrast to biblical themes of enduring life, flourishing branches, or the steadfast "Branch" (Messiah) who will never wither (e.g., [[Isaiah 11:1]], [[John 15:5]]). It emphasizes the fleeting nature of that which is not sustained by God's unwavering favor and faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2150}}` (זַלְזַל, zalzal), meaning a "tremulous twig" or "sprig," derives from a root signifying lightness and shaking. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Ezekiel 17:9]] is highly significant, serving as a powerful symbol within a prophetic parable. Here, the "zalzal" represents the delicate and easily withered parts of the vine, which metaphorically stands for the kingdom of Judah. This imagery underscores the extreme fragility of human power and the inevitability of divine judgment when a nation or people turn away from God. The ease with which these "sprigs" wither highlights God's absolute sovereignty and the dire consequences of disobedience, presenting a stark contrast to concepts of enduring life and divine flourishing. Thus, "zalzal" functions as a poignant testament to impending desolation and the fleeting nature of that which lacks divine sustenance.
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