The Hebrew word Chôwzay, represented by H2335, is defined as visionary. It is derived from the word for seer, and can refer to Chozai, an Israelite, or more generally, the seers. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single appearance of H2335 is in the historical account of King Manasseh's reign. After detailing the king's great sin and subsequent repentance, the Bible directs the reader to a specific source for more information. The text states that the details of his prayer H8605, how God was intreated H6279 of him, and the full account of his sin H2403 and trespass H4604 are "written among the sayings of the seers" 2 Chronicles 33:19, using the word Chôwzay.
Several related words illuminate the context of this singular reference:
- H2374 chôzeh (seer): The root word for Chôwzay, meaning "a beholder in vision" or "prophet." Seers were tasked with delivering divine messages and often acted as historians and advisors, sometimes confronting rulers 2 Chronicles 19:2.
- H1697 dâbâr (sayings): This word, meaning "a word" or "matter," describes the content of the seers' record. It is frequently used to refer to the authoritative "word of the LORD" Genesis 15:1, suggesting the significance of what was written.
- H8605 tᵉphillâh (prayer): Manasseh's prayer is a central element of the account preserved by Chôwzay. This term denotes intercession and supplication, a communication that God hears 2 Kings 20:5.
- H2403 chaṭṭâʼâh (sin): The record of the seers specifically documented Manasseh's sin, defined as an "offence." This highlights the prophetic role of holding people accountable for their actions Isaiah 59:2.
- H4604 maʻal (trespass): This term for "treachery" or "sin" is also used to describe Manasseh's actions. It often refers to a serious breach of faith against God 1 Chronicles 10:13.
The theological weight of H2335 is tied entirely to its unique context in documenting a pivotal moment of repentance.
- Inspired Historiography: The reference to the "sayings of the seers" indicates a divinely inspired form of record-keeping, where prophets were responsible for preserving the account of God's dealings with His people, including their failures and restorations.
- Documentation of Grace: The record of Chôwzay serves as a permanent testament to divine grace. It captures not only the depth of Manasseh's sin H2403 and trespass H4604 but also the efficacy of his prayer H8605 and God's willingness to be intreated H6279.
- Prophetic Authority: By citing this source, the biblical narrative affirms the authority of the prophets' written words, or sayings H1697, as a reliable witness to historical and spiritual truth.
In summary, H2335 Chôwzay functions as a proper name or title for a prophetic record. Though it appears only once, its significance is immense. It points to the lost "sayings of the seers" which chronicled one of the most dramatic stories of sin and redemption in the Old Testament. The term underscores the vital role of the chôzeh, or seer, in not only speaking for God but also in preserving the memory of His actions for future generations.
TRV