the same as זִמָּה; Zimmah, the name of two Israelites; Zimmah.
Transliteration:Zimmâh
Pronunciation:zim-maw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2155}}` (Zimmâh) is identified as a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as זִמָּה," referring to `{{H2154}}` (zimmâh). While `{{H2154}}` is a common noun carrying a semantic range that includes "plan," "purpose," "device," it frequently denotes negative connotations such as "wickedness," "depravity," or "mischief" in biblical texts. However, when used as a personal name, as in `{{H2155}}`, it is highly improbable that parents would intentionally name their child "Wickedness" or "Depravity." Therefore, the name "Zimmah" most likely draws upon the more neutral or positive aspects of its root, signifying "purpose," "plan," or "design." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying specific individuals who bore this name, rather than conveying a abstract concept or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zimmah (`{{H2155}}`) appears in the biblical record in two distinct contexts, likely referring to two separate individuals, both Levites:
1. **Zimmah, Son of Jahath**: This individual is mentioned in the genealogical lists of the Gershonite Levites.
* In [[1 Chronicles 6:20]] (Hebrew 6:5), Zimmah is listed as the son of Jahath and father of Joah, in the lineage of Gershom, son of Levi.
* [[1 Chronicles 6:43]] (Hebrew 6:28) reiterates this lineage, placing Zimmah in the ancestral line of the temple musicians, specifically Asaph. This confirms his identity as a Gershonite Levite, highlighting his role within the tribal structure responsible for sacred service.
2. **Zimmah, Father of Joah**: This individual is mentioned in the account of King Hezekiah's reforms.
* In [[2 Chronicles 29:12]], Joah, son of Zimmah, is listed among the Levites who consecrated themselves to cleanse the temple during Hezekiah's reign. This Zimmah is also identified as a Gershonite. Given the significant time gap between the early genealogies and Hezekiah's reign, it is most probable that this Zimmah is a later descendant bearing the same name, rather than the original Zimmah son of Jahath. His son's active participation in the temple's purification underscores the continued commitment of this Levitical lineage to the worship of Yahweh.
In both instances, the name Zimmah appears within the context of Levitical genealogies or their active service, indicating their integral role in the religious life of Israel. The name itself does not carry specific narrative weight beyond identification within these historical and cultic records.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H2155}}` is `{{H2154}}` (zimmâh), the common noun from which the proper noun is derived. As discussed, `{{H2154}}` typically conveys "wickedness," "depravity," or "evil plan" (e.g., [[Leviticus 18:17]], [[Judges 20:6]], [[Psalm 26:10]], [[Proverbs 12:2]]). The contrast between the frequent negative connotation of the common noun and the neutral or potentially positive implication of the proper noun "Zimmah" (as "purpose" or "plan") is notable.
Other related Hebrew words that convey concepts of "plan," "thought," or "counsel" include:
* `{{H4284}}` (machashavah): "thought," "device," "plan," which can also be good or evil (e.g., [[Genesis 6:5]], [[Psalm 33:10]]).
* `{{H6098}}` (etzah): "counsel," "advice," "plan," often referring to divine or human counsel (e.g., [[Psalm 33:11]], [[Isaiah 14:26]]).
* `{{H4209}}` (mezimmah): "discretion," "purpose," "device," sometimes used positively (e.g., [[Proverbs 2:11]]) and sometimes negatively (e.g., [[Proverbs 24:8]]).
While these words share a conceptual overlap with the root of "Zimmah" in terms of "planning" or "purposing," `{{H2155}}` as a proper noun stands distinct as an identifier rather than a descriptor of action or intent.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the theological significance of "Zimmah" (`{{H2155}}`) is primarily indirect, rooted in the individuals who bore the name and their place within God's covenant people. The fact that both identified individuals named Zimmah were Levites is significant. The Levites were divinely appointed for service to Yahweh, maintaining the tabernacle/temple, instructing the people, and facilitating worship. Their inclusion in the biblical record, even in genealogical lists, underscores God's meticulous ordering of His covenant community and the importance of lineage in fulfilling specific roles within that divine structure.
The name itself, possibly meaning "purpose" or "plan," could subtly reflect the divine plan at work in the lives of these individuals and their descendants. Even though the common noun `{{H2154}}` often denotes human wickedness, the adoption of "Zimmah" as a personal name suggests a potential for the word to convey a divine or righteous purpose, or perhaps a hope that the child would live a life of purpose. The participation of Joah, son of Zimmah, in Hezekiah's temple purification (a moment of national spiritual renewal) further highlights the ongoing faithfulness of certain Levitical lines, demonstrating a continuity of service across generations in line with God's overarching purpose for His people. Thus, "Zimmah" serves as a testament to God's sovereign design in raising up and preserving those dedicated to His service.
### Summary
`{{H2155}}` (Zimmâh) is a Hebrew proper noun, serving as the name of at least two distinct Levites in the biblical record. While etymologically linked to `{{H2154}}` (zimmâh), a common noun often signifying "wickedness" or "depravity," the personal name "Zimmah" likely draws upon the more neutral sense of "purpose" or "plan." The biblical occurrences place individuals named Zimmah within Levitical genealogies (e.g., [[1 Chronicles 6:20]], [[1 Chronicles 6:43]]) and in the context of temple service during Hezekiah's reforms (e.g., [[2 Chronicles 29:12]]). Although the name itself does not carry a specific narrative weight, its appearance underscores the meticulous biblical record-keeping of lineages dedicated to God's service. The theological significance of "Zimmah" lies in its subtle reflection of God's sovereign plan for His people and the faithful continuation of Levitical duties across generations.
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