### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAzzûwr**, represented by `{{H5809}}`, means **helpful**. It is a proper name that appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is given to three different Israelites, connecting them to this concept of providing aid or support.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the name **ʻAzzûwr** identifies key individuals, primarily as the father of influential figures. In the vision of the prophet Ezekiel, one of the corrupt leaders of Jerusalem is "Jaazaniah the son of **Azur**," who was a prince among the people [[Ezekiel 11:1]]. Similarly, the false prophet who directly confronted Jeremiah was "Hananiah the son of **Azur** the prophet" [[Jeremiah 28:1]]. A third individual named **Azzur** is listed among the leaders who sealed the covenant with God after the return from exile [[Nehemiah 10:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of the figures associated with **ʻAzzûwr**:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): Azur's son Jaazaniah is identified as a **prince** of the people, signifying his position of authority and influence in Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 11:1]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (prophet): Azur's son Hananiah is labeled a **prophet**, placing him in a role of spiritual leadership, though he delivered a false message [[Jeremiah 28:1]].
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (people): Both of the prominent sons of an Azur are described in their relationship to the **people**, highlighting their public roles and the impact of their actions on the nation ([[Ezekiel 11:1]], [[Jeremiah 28:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5809}}` is found in the contrast between its meaning and the actions of the individuals connected to it.
* **Leadership and Responsibility:** The name is tied to fathers of leaders—a **prince** `{{H8269}}` and a **prophet** `{{H5030}}`—underscoring that positions of power carry significant moral and spiritual responsibility.
* **Irony of a Name:** The name meaning "helpful" stands in stark contrast to the harmful counsel and false prophecies offered by the sons of Azur in Ezekiel and Jeremiah. This serves as a powerful reminder that one's name or heritage does not guarantee righteous character.
* **A Divided Legacy:** While two mentions of Azur are linked to opposition to God's will, the appearance of Azzur in Nehemiah's list of covenant-keepers shows that the name was also borne by the faithful [[Nehemiah 10:17]]. This illustrates that personal choice, not lineage, defines one's relationship with God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5809}}` is a personal name whose meaning, **helpful**, provides a backdrop for the stories of the men associated with it. Though appearing infrequently, it is connected to figures of significant influence—a prince, a prophet, and a covenant-maker. The name **ʻAzzûwr** powerfully illustrates the biblical theme that an individual's actions, rather than their name or family, are the ultimate measure of their character and faithfulness.
TRV