### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zôqen**, represented by `{{H2207}}`, specifically refers to **old age** or **age**. It is a remarkably rare term, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible. Its sole use provides a distinct and tangible description of the physical effects of a long life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{H2207}}` is found in the narrative of Jacob, also called Israel, preparing to bless Joseph's sons. The text states, "Now the eyes of Israel were dim for **age**, so that he could not see" [[Genesis 48:10]]. This use of **zôqen** directly links advanced age with physical limitation, specifically failing eyesight. Despite this frailty, Jacob's role as patriarch remains central, as Joseph brings his sons near for Jacob to kiss `{{H5401}}` and embrace `{{H2263}}` them in a moment of blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in the surrounding passage highlight the physical state associated with Jacob's **age**:
* `{{H3513}}` **kâbad**: This word, meaning **to be heavy**, is used here to describe Jacob's eyes as "dim." This same root is used elsewhere to mean "honour" [[Exodus 20:12]] or to describe God's ear as not being "heavy" [[Isaiah 59:1]], showing a connection between weight and responsiveness.
* `{{H3201}}` **yâkôl**: Meaning **to be able**, this word emphasizes the direct consequence of Jacob's age, stating he "could not" see. It is often used to express ability or inability to prevail or endure ([[Jeremiah 20:11]], [[Psalms 21:11]]).
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh**: As the primitive root for **to see**, its use here defines the specific sense that has been lost due to old age. The Bible frequently uses this word both for physical sight and for spiritual perception, such as when the Lord "seeth not as man seeth" [[1 Samuel 16:7]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the context of `{{H2207}}` offers a poignant theological reflection:
* **The Physicality of a Long Life:** The word is used to describe the tangible, physical decline that can accompany old age. Jacob's dim eyes `{{H5869}}` are a direct result of his **zôqen**, grounding the patriarchal narrative in real human experience.
* **Enduring Spiritual Authority:** Jacob's physical weakness does not diminish his spiritual authority or his role in God's covenant plan. Even though he cannot **see** `{{H7200}}`, he is still the vessel through whom the patriarchal blessing is passed to the next generation.
* **Tenderness Amidst Frailty:** The scene of Jacob's **age** is not one of sorrow alone, but of intimacy. His inability to see necessitates that his grandsons be brought **near** `{{H5066}}` to him, leading to a moment where he can **embrace** `{{H2263}}` and **kiss** `{{H5401}}` them, underscoring the persistence of love and family bonds.
### Summary
In summary, **zôqen** `{{H2207}}` offers a concise but powerful snapshot of **old age**. Its singular appearance in scripture is tied to the patriarch Israel, vividly portraying the physical frailty that accompanies a long life. However, it is set within a context of enduring purpose and affection, demonstrating that while the body may grow weak, one's role in God's plan and the bonds of family remain strong.
TRV