from חָזָה; seer; Chazo, a nephew of Abraham; Hazo.
Transliteration:Chăzôw
Pronunciation:khaz-o'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma חֲזוֹ (Chăzôw), designated by `{{H2375}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its root derives from the verb חָזָה (chazah) `{{H2372}}`, which signifies "to see," "to behold," "to perceive," or "to have a vision." Thus, the name Chăzôw intrinsically carries the semantic weight of "seer" or "visionary." However, it is crucial to note that while the etymology points to this profound concept of seeing, the individual named Chazo is not explicitly presented in the biblical text as one who possesses or exercises prophetic vision. Rather, the name itself serves as a descriptor, potentially reflecting a hope, a characteristic, or a circumstance associated with his birth or family. The semantic range for `{{H2375}}` is therefore limited to its function as a personal appellation within a genealogical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name חֲזוֹ (Chăzôw) `{{H2375}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the book of Genesis. Its sole occurrence is found in [[Genesis 22:22]], where it is listed as one of the sons of Nahor, Abraham's brother, by his concubine Reumah: "And Kesed, and Hazo, and Pildash, and Jidlaph, and Bethuel." This verse immediately follows the account of the binding of Isaac (Akedah) and precedes the death of Sarah. The inclusion of Nahor's progeny serves to expand the genealogical record, providing context for the wider family of Abraham and introducing Rebekah, who will become Isaac's wife. Chazo's placement in this list underscores the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, which often trace not only the direct line of covenant but also the broader family networks, acknowledging the interconnectedness of various tribes and peoples. His mention is purely descriptive, providing no further details about his life, actions, or character.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to חֲזוֹ (Chăzôw) `{{H2375}}` is its verbal root, חָזָה (chazah) `{{H2372}}`, meaning "to see" or "to behold," especially in a prophetic or visionary sense. This root is foundational to several other significant Hebrew terms related to divine communication and revelation. For instance, חֹזֶה (chozeh) `{{H2374}}` refers to a "seer" or "visionary," often a prophet who receives divine messages through visions (e.g., [[2 Samuel 24:11]], [[Isaiah 30:10]]). Similarly, מַרְאָה (mar'ah) `{{H4759}}` denotes a "vision" or "appearance," often of God (e.g., [[Numbers 12:6]]). Another related term is רֹאֶה (ro'eh) `{{H7203}}`, also translated as "seer," highlighting one who sees with insight or spiritual perception (e.g., [[1 Samuel 9:9]]).
While Chazo's name shares this etymological link to "seeing" and "vision," it is vital to distinguish between the name's meaning and the individual's role. Unlike figures explicitly called "seers" (chozeh or ro'eh), Chazo is not depicted as having received or conveyed divine revelation. However, the very existence of such a name within Abraham's extended family subtly connects him to a lineage that would become central to God's self-revelation, where prophets and visions played a crucial role in mediating the divine will. The practice of naming children with words reflecting spiritual concepts was common in ancient Israel, often expressing hopes, prayers, or foundational truths about God's interaction with humanity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חֲזוֹ (Chăzôw) `{{H2375}}` is primarily indirect, stemming from his inclusion in the sacred genealogical record and the meaning embedded in his name. His presence in [[Genesis 22:22]] underscores God's meticulous attention to detail in the unfolding of salvation history. Even individuals outside the direct covenantal line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are noted, demonstrating the vastness of God's sovereign oversight over all families and nations. This inclusion highlights the broader context from which the chosen people emerged, emphasizing that God's plan for redemption encompasses a wide array of human connections.
Furthermore, the name's etymological link to "seeing" or "vision" subtly resonates with a core theological theme in the Abrahamic narrative: divine revelation. God *appeared* to Abraham, Abraham *saw* the land promised to him, and the covenant itself was established through divine vision and promise. While Chazo himself is not a "seer," his name serves as a linguistic echo of this pervasive theme of God's self-disclosure and humanity's capacity (or need) to "see" and comprehend divine truth. In a broader sense, it reminds us that even seemingly minor figures in biblical genealogies contribute to the grand tapestry of God's plan, and their very names can carry profound, if unfulfilled in their personal narratives, theological weight.
### Summary
חֲזוֹ (Chăzôw) `{{H2375}}` is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "seer" or "visionary," derived from the verb חָזָה (chazah) `{{H2372}}`, "to see." This name appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Genesis 22:22]], where Chazo is identified as one of the sons of Nahor, Abraham's brother, through his concubine Reumah. His inclusion is purely genealogical, providing context for Abraham's extended family. While the individual Chazo is not presented as a prophet or one who experiences visions, his name's etymology connects him to the significant biblical concept of divine revelation and prophetic sight. The theological import of `{{H2375}}` lies in its contribution to the detailed biblical genealogies, affirming God's comprehensive oversight of all human lineages, and subtly echoing the pervasive theme of divine "seeing" and "vision" central to the narrative of Abraham and his descendants.
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