### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zarzîyph**, represented by `{{H2222}}`, means **a pouring rain; water**. It is derived from an unused root word meaning to flow. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible, within a single verse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2222}}` is in [[Psalms 72:6]], where it is used in a powerful simile to describe the nature of a righteous king's rule. The verse states, "He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that **water** the earth." In this poetic context, `{{H2222}}` is used alongside other words for precipitation, such as "rain" `{{H4306}}` and "showers" `{{H7241}}`, to illustrate how a just king's influence brings life and refreshment to the land `{{H776}}` and its people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{H2222}}`:
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): This word describes the action of the king in the verse, "He shall **come down**." It is frequently used for rain coming from heaven [[Isaiah 55:10]] and for God Himself descending to act on earth [[Exodus 3:8]].
* `{{H4306}}` **mâṭar** (rain): This is the general term for **rain** and appears in the first part of the simile in [[Psalms 72:6]], setting the stage for the more specific imagery of a pouring rain that follows.
* `{{H7241}}` **râbîyb** (shower): Used in direct parallel with `{{H2222}}` in [[Psalms 72:6]], this word for **shower** reinforces the idea of an abundant, life-giving downpour that blesses the earth.
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (the earth): As the object receiving the pouring rain, this word for **the earth** or land is crucial. It highlights the purpose of the rain, which is to nourish and sustain the ground, making it fruitful.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2222}}`, though based on a single verse, is profound. It serves as a powerful metaphor for divine blessing and righteous governance.
* **Righteous Rule as a Blessing:** The use of `{{H2222}}` in [[Psalms 72:6]] directly equates the coming of a just king with a restorative, "pouring rain" upon mown grass, symbolizing renewal and new life under his leadership.
* **Divine Provision:** The imagery of rain descending from above connects the king's beneficial rule to a divine source. Just as God sends rain to water the earth [[Deuteronomy 11:11]], the king's influence is portrayed as a gift that brings life and fruitfulness.
* **Symbol of Restoration:** Water on the earth `{{H776}}` is a consistent biblical symbol of life and restoration. The "pouring rain" of `{{H2222}}` specifically nourishes what has been cut down ("mown grass," `{{H1488}}`), signifying a power that restores and brings forth new growth even after a harvest or judgment.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2222}}` **zarzîyph** is among the rarest words in the Hebrew scripture, its singular use is rich with meaning. It functions not as a simple descriptor for weather but as a potent metaphor in [[Psalms 72:6]]. It powerfully illustrates that the ideal king's rule is like a divine gift of "pouring rain"—gentle, life-giving, and essential for the renewal and flourishing of the land and its people.
TRV