The Hebrew name Zimmâh, represented by H2155, is used to identify two Israelites. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The name's primary function is to establish specific ancestral lines within the tribe of Levi.
In the biblical narrative, H2155 appears exclusively within genealogical records. In one lineage, Zimmah is listed as a descendant of Gershom, the son of Jahath 1 Chronicles 6:20. In another, he is identified as the son of Shimei and the father of Ethan 1 Chronicles 6:42. The name also appears in the account of King Hezekiah's reforms, where Joah the son of Zimmah is among the Gershonite Levites who arose to cleanse the temple 2 Chronicles 29:12.
Several related words clarify the context of Zimmah's identity and familial connections:
- H1647 Gêrᵉshôm (Gershom): This name identifies the ancestor of the Gershonite clan of Levites, the line to which Zimmah belongs 1 Chronicles 6:20.
- H1649 Gêrᵉshunnîy (Gershonite): This patronymic term designates a descendant of Gereshon and is explicitly used to classify the family line of Joah, the son of Zimmah 2 Chronicles 29:12.
- H3881 Lêvîyîy (Levite): This identifies a descendant of Levi. Zimmah's son, Joah, is named among the Levites who took part in the temple cleansing 2 Chronicles 29:12.
- H3098 Yôwʼâch (Joah): As the son of Zimmah, his actions as a Levite reformer highlight the significance of his lineage 2 Chronicles 29:12.
- H387 ʼÊythân (Ethan): Listed as a son of Zimmah, Ethan is another key figure whose ancestry is traced through this name 1 Chronicles 6:42.
The significance of H2155 is primarily genealogical, establishing crucial links within the tribe of Levi.
- Levitical Heritage: The name Zimmah consistently appears within the family records of the Levites, specifically as a descendant of Gershom, one of Levi's sons 1 Chronicles 6:20.
- Ancestral Connector: Zimmah serves as a vital link connecting different generations. He is presented as both a son (of Jahath and Shimei in separate lineages) and a father (of Joah and Ethan), showing the name's importance in tracing descents (1 Chronicles 6:20, 1 Chronicles 6:42).
- Connection to Religious Reform: Through his son Joah, Zimmah's line is directly associated with the spiritual renewal under King Hezekiah, where the Levites arose to fulfill their sacred duties 2 Chronicles 29:12.
In summary, H2155 is a name that functions as an important marker in biblical genealogies. While not a central figure, Zimmah is essential for tracing the lineage of the Gershonite Levites. The name connects the patriarchal line of Gershom to prominent descendants like Joah and Ethan, underscoring the careful preservation of ancestry within Israel's priestly tribe.
TRV