by reduplication from זוּר; properly, tightly girt, i.e. probably a racer, or some fleet animal (as being slender in the waist); [phrase] greyhound.
Transliteration:zarzîyr
Pronunciation:zar-zeer'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word זַרְזִיר (zarzîyr, `{{H2223}}`) is a unique term whose etymology points to a specific physical characteristic. It is derived by reduplication from the root זוּר (zûr), which can carry meanings related to being "compressed," "girt," or "tightly bound." The reduplication emphasizes this quality, suggesting an animal that is "tightly girt" or "slender in the waist." This physical description naturally leads to the semantic range of "a racer" or "a fleet animal," as such a build is conducive to speed and agility. The common English translation "greyhound" is an interpretive rendering that captures these qualities of leanness, speed, and elegance in motion. Thus, the core meaning revolves around a creature characterized by its compact, agile form and swift movement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word זַרְזִיר (zarzîyr) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Proverbs 30:31]]. This verse is part of a collection of numerical proverbs, often attributed to Agur, which group together items sharing a common admirable trait. In this instance, the commonality is "stately in their stride" or "comely in going" (יְפֵה צַעַד). The full list presented is: "the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any; the strutting rooster; the he-goat; and a king whose army is with him."
The interpretation of זַרְזִיר has been a subject of scholarly debate. While the King James Version famously translates it as "a greyhound," other translations, influenced by the Septuagint's "ἀλέκτωρ" (alektor, "rooster"), render it as "strutting rooster" (e.g., NIV, ESV). The etymological root, however, strongly favors an animal known for its slender build and speed, making "greyhound" or a similar swift creature a more fitting interpretation based on the Hebrew itself. The context of "stately stride" could apply to the elegant, powerful gait of a greyhound, or the proud, measured walk of a rooster. Given the other animals in the list (lion, he-goat) represent strength and dignity, a swift, graceful animal aligns well with the theme of impressive movement. The ambiguity highlights the challenges inherent in precise zoological identification from ancient texts.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary etymological connection for זַרְזִיר (zarzîyr, `{{H2223}}`) is to the root זוּר (zûr), specifically in the sense of being "girt" or "compressed" (related to `{{H2115}}`). This root emphasizes the physical characteristic of being tightly formed or slender.
Concepts related to the implied meaning of זַרְזִיר include:
* **Speed and Agility:** Other Hebrew words conveying swiftness include מָהִיר (māhîr, swift, `{{H4106}}`) and קַל (qal, swift, light, `{{H7031}}`). Animals known for their speed, such as the צְבִי (tsevi, gazelle, `{{H6643}}`) or אַיָּל (ayyāl, stag, `{{H354}}`), share the characteristic of the זַרְזִיר.
* **Elegance and Dignity:** The surrounding context in [[Proverbs 30:31]] links זַרְזִיר with the אַרְיֵה (aryeh, lion, `{{H738}}`), the תַּיִשׁ (tayish, he-goat, `{{H8163}}`), and a king, all figures embodying strength, dignity, and impressive presence. The זַרְזִיר, whether a greyhound or a rooster, is presented as possessing a similar quality of impressive movement.
* **Observation of Nature:** The wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, frequently draws lessons and illustrations from the natural world. The inclusion of זַרְזִיר exemplifies this practice, inviting the reader to observe and appreciate the diverse perfections within God's creation.
### Theological Significance
While זַרְזִיר (zarzîyr, `{{H2223}}`) refers to an animal and appears only once, its presence in [[Proverbs 30:31]] contributes to the broader theological insights found in wisdom literature. The passage highlights the divine order and beauty inherent in creation. By listing creatures that exhibit "stately stride" or impressive movement, the text implicitly acknowledges God as the designer of such attributes.
The זַרְזִיר, whether understood as a swift greyhound or a strutting rooster, serves as an example of a creature endowed with a distinct and admirable quality of movement. This points to the meticulousness of God's design, where even seemingly minor details of animal physiology contribute to their unique grace and effectiveness. The theological significance lies not in the animal itself as a symbol, but in its role as an illustration within a discourse on wisdom and observation. It encourages a reverent appreciation for the diverse ways in which creation reflects the glory and artistry of its Creator, reminding us that even the gait of an animal can testify to divine craftsmanship and order.
### Summary
The Hebrew word זַרְזִיר (zarzîyr, `{{H2223}}`) is a rare term found solely in [[Proverbs 30:31]]. Etymologically, it suggests an animal that is "tightly girt" or "slender in the waist," pointing towards a creature known for its swiftness and agility, often rendered as "greyhound." Despite some interpretive ambiguity in translations (e.g., "strutting rooster"), the core meaning emphasizes a creature with an impressive and elegant gait. Its inclusion in a list alongside a lion, a he-goat, and a king underscores the Old Testament's appreciation for the diverse manifestations of strength, dignity, and grace in both the natural world and human society. Theologically, זַרְזִיר contributes to the wisdom literature's theme of observing God's creation to discern order, beauty, and the intricate design that testifies to the Creator's wisdom.
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