by reduplication from an unused root meaning to flow; a pouring rain; water.
Transliteration:zarzîyph
Pronunciation:zar-zeef'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term זַרְזִיף (zarzîyph, `{{H2222}}`) is a rare and evocative word derived by reduplication from an unused root, which is understood to convey the concept of "to flow." This etymological root strongly informs its core meaning, pointing to the movement and abundance of water. The reduplicative form often suggests intensity, repetition, or a diminutive quality in Hebrew, and here it likely emphasizes the continuous, perhaps trickling or distilling, nature of water's flow. Its primary definition is "a pouring rain" or simply "water," but the nuances of its formation suggest a more specific focus on the individual drops or the initial stages of precipitation. It describes not merely the presence of water, but the dynamic process of its formation or descent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word זַרְזִיף (zarzîyph, `{{H2222}}`) appears only once in the entire Masoretic Text, found in [[Job 36:27]]. This singular occurrence makes its contextual analysis paramount for understanding its precise meaning and theological implications.
In [[Job 36:27]], Elihu is speaking about the majesty and power of God as revealed through His control over the natural world, specifically the hydrological cycle: "For he draws up the drops of water; they distill in rain from his mist." (ESV). The phrase in question is "יִגְרַע נִטְפֵי־מָיִם יָרֹק לְמָטָר לְאֵדוֹ זַרְזִיף". While the King James Version translates זַרְזִיף as "water," more modern translations often render it as "drops," "mist," or "vapor" from which the rain distills. The verse describes God's intricate process of drawing up water (evaporation), which then forms mist and eventually condenses into rain.
In this context, זַרְזִיף refers to the minute particles or initial trickling of water that coalesce to form rain. It highlights the meticulous detail and power of God in orchestrating even the smallest components of the natural world. Elihu's argument is that God's wisdom and might are evident in the complex, unseen mechanisms of creation, such as the formation of rain from seemingly insignificant "drops" or "mist." The word underscores the divine agency behind the most fundamental processes of life-sustaining rain.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its unique occurrence and meaning, זַרְזִיף (zarzîyph, `{{H2222}}`) relates to several broader concepts and other Hebrew terms concerning water and precipitation:
* **Water (מַיִם, mayim, `{{H4325}}`):** This is the most general term for water in Hebrew. זַרְזִיף specifies a particular *form* or *stage* of water, particularly in its atmospheric cycle, distinguishing it from general bodies of water.
* **Rain (מָטָר, matar, `{{H4306}}`):** A common word for rain. While זַרְזִיף is related to rain, it describes the *source* or *initial formation* of rain (the "drops" or "distillation") rather than the rain itself as it falls.
* **Heavy Rain/Downpour (גֶּשֶׁם, geshem, `{{H1653}}`):** This term emphasizes the intensity and volume of rain. In contrast, זַרְזִיף points to the subtle, foundational elements from which such downpours eventually originate.
* **Flowing/River (נָהָר, nahar, `{{H5097}}`):** While not directly related in form, the underlying root of זַרְזִיף meaning "to flow" connects it conceptually to words describing the movement of water.
* **Mist/Vapor (אֵד, 'ed, `{{H108}}`):** In [[Job 36:27]], זַרְזִיף is closely associated with "mist" (לְאֵדוֹ), indicating its role in the atmospheric cycle of water. It emphasizes the subtle, often unseen, processes of nature.
The reduplication in זַרְזִיף is also significant. Similar to onomatopoeic words, it might evoke the sound or continuous action of dripping or flowing water, making it a highly descriptive term for the minute elements of precipitation.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of זַרְזִיף (zarzîyph, `{{H2222}}`) in [[Job 36:27]] holds profound theological significance, primarily within the context of Elihu's discourse on God's sovereignty and wisdom.
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Creation:** The word underscores God's absolute control over the natural world, even at the most minute and fundamental levels. It is not merely that God sends rain, but that He meticulously orchestrates the entire hydrological cycle, from the drawing up of "drops" (zarzîyph) to their distillation into rain. This speaks to an intricate, intelligent design rather than random natural processes.
2. **God's Unfathomable Wisdom:** Elihu uses this example to highlight the limits of human understanding in comprehending God's works. The intricate process of rain formation, beginning with these tiny "drops," reveals a wisdom far beyond human grasp, prompting awe and humility before the Creator.
3. **Providence and Sustenance:** Rain is essential for life, making God's control over it a demonstration of His ongoing providence and care for His creation. Even the smallest "drops" are part of a larger system designed to sustain life on earth.
4. **Revelation of God's Power:** The ability to control such fundamental and vast natural phenomena, from the smallest vapor to the heaviest downpour, showcases God's immense power. It serves as a testament to His might, which is beyond challenge or comprehension by humanity.
5. **Justice and Righteousness:** In the broader context of Job, Elihu's speeches aim to vindicate God's justice and wisdom in the face of human suffering. God's perfect control over nature serves as an analogy for His perfect governance of the world, even when His ways seem mysterious to humans.
### Summary
The Hebrew word זַרְזִיף (zarzîyph, `{{H2222}}`) is a unique and highly descriptive term, appearing only once in [[Job 36:27]]. Derived from an unused root meaning "to flow" and formed by reduplication, it denotes the "drops" or initial "trickling" of water that coalesce to form rain. In Elihu's theological discourse, this word serves to highlight God's meticulous and powerful control over the hydrological cycle, from the most minute atmospheric particles to the life-sustaining rain. Its singular use emphasizes the unfathomable wisdom and absolute sovereignty of God as the orchestrator of creation, revealing His providential care and immense power in the very fabric of the natural world.
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