### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâqun**, represented by `{{H2208}}`, is a specific term for **old age**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its use is exclusively focused on the context of a child being born to a parent in their later years, marking that child as particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2208}}` is used to highlight moments of miraculous birth and special affection. The term appears twice in relation to the birth of Isaac, whom Sarah bore to Abraham "in his **old age**" ([[Genesis 21:2]], [[Genesis 21:7]]), fulfilling a divine promise. It is also the reason given for Israel's great love for Joseph, who was the "son of his **old age**" [[Genesis 37:3]]. In a parallel situation, Judah describes his youngest brother Benjamin to Joseph as a "child of his **old age**" to their father, emphasizing his preciousness [[Genesis 44:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H2208}}` is used:
* `{{H2205}}` **zâqên** (old; aged, ancient (man), elder(-est), old (man, men and...women), senator): This is the root word from which zâqun derives. It describes the state of the parent, as seen when Jacob is referred to as "an old man" `{{H2205}}` who has a child of his old age [[Genesis 44:20]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This term is integral to the meaning of zâqun, as all occurrences are in the phrase "son of his **old age**," signifying the importance of male heirs for the continuation of the family line [[Genesis 37:3]].
* `{{H6996}}` **qâṭân** (little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est)): This word is used to describe the child of old age as "a little one," emphasizing the contrast between the aged father and the young, vulnerable child he deeply loves [[Genesis 44:20]].
* `{{H8283}}` **Sârâh** (Sarah, Abraham's wife): Her story is a primary example of the theme, as God fulfilled His promise by enabling her to bear a son to Abraham in his old age [[Genesis 21:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2208}}` is centered on divine promise and special relationships.
* **Fulfillment of Promise:** The birth of a child in "old age" serves as a powerful sign of God's faithfulness. Isaac's birth to Abraham was the fulfillment of what God "had spoken," occurring at the "set time" He appointed [[Genesis 21:2]].
* **Mark of Favor:** A "son of old age" is consistently portrayed as an object of intense paternal love and favor. This is the explicit reason for Israel's preference for Joseph [[Genesis 37:3]] and for Jacob's devotion to Benjamin [[Genesis 44:20]].
* **Miraculous Provision:** The term underscores God's ability to work beyond the limits of nature. The birth of a child to elderly parents like Abraham and Sarah demonstrates a divine intervention to ensure the continuation of a covenant line.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2208}}` is more than a simple descriptor of an age group. It specifically frames the context of a child's birth, imbuing that child with special significance. It is a term tied directly to themes of divine fulfillment, miraculous provision, and the unique, profound affection a father holds for a son who ensures his legacy in his final years.
TRV