from עָזַז and יָהּ; Jah has strengthened; Azazjah, the name of three Israelites; Azaziah.
Transliteration:ʻĂzazyâhûw
Pronunciation:az-az-yaw'-hoo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun עֲזַזְיָהוּ (ʻĂzazyâhûw), Strong's number `{{H5812}}`, is a theophoric name derived from two components: the verb עָזַז (ʻāzaz), meaning "to be strong, mighty, or prevail" (related to `{{H5810}}`), and יָהּ (Yah), a shortened form of the divine name YHWH. Therefore, the name's core meaning is "Jah has strengthened" or "Yahweh has strengthened." This signifies a profound theological statement, attributing the source of strength and might directly to God. The semantic range is primarily focused on divine empowerment, indicating that any strength, ability, or success attributed to the individual bearing this name ultimately originates from the Lord. It is not merely a descriptive name but a declarative one, testifying to God's active role in bestowing power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻĂzazyâhûw appears three times in the Hebrew Bible, each instance referring to a different Israelite, underscoring its significance as a personal name that likely reflected the faith or hopes of the parents, or perhaps the perceived divine enablement of the individual.
1. **Levite Musician:** In [[1 Chronicles 15:21]], Azaziah is listed among the Levites who were appointed by David to serve as musicians "with lyres on the Sheminith" (a low-pitched instrument) when the ark of the covenant was brought to Jerusalem. His role in sacred worship, contributing to the musical praise of God, highlights a service that required skill and dedication, perhaps seen as divinely strengthened.
2. **Temple Overseer:** [[2 Chronicles 31:13]] mentions Azaziah as one of the overseers under Conaniah and Shimei, who were in charge of the contributions, tithes, and dedicated things in the house of the Lord during the reforms of King Hezekiah. This administrative role in managing the temple offerings required integrity and competence, tasks for which divine strength and wisdom would be essential.
3. **Priest in Nehemiah:** In [[Nehemiah 12:42]], Azaziah (or Azarel, depending on the manuscript tradition, though Azaziah is often preferred in critical texts) is listed among the priests who participated in the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. They marched with the singers, making their voices heard. This public, celebratory role in a moment of national restoration and spiritual renewal again points to a divinely empowered service.
In all three contexts, the individuals bearing the name ʻĂzazyâhûw are engaged in significant service to God and the community, often within the sacred sphere of the temple or religious life. Their roles—musician, administrator, and participant in sacred ceremony—are areas where human strength alone would be insufficient, implicitly requiring divine enablement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root related to ʻĂzazyâhûw is עָזַז (ʻāzaz, `{{H5810}}`), which denotes strength, might, and prevailing. This root appears in various forms throughout the Hebrew Bible, often describing God's power (e.g., "strong hand") or the strength of individuals, nations, or even natural phenomena.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Theophoric Names:** Many Hebrew names incorporate elements of God's name (Yah, El, Yahu), reflecting a deep theological understanding that God is intimately involved in human life. Examples include Isaiah ("Yahweh is salvation"), Jeremiah ("Yahweh exalts"), and Hezekiah ("Yahweh strengthens"). The structure of ʻĂzazyâhûw places it firmly within this rich tradition.
* **Divine Empowerment:** The concept that God strengthens His people for their tasks and challenges is a pervasive theme in Scripture. Verses like [[Philippians 4:13]] ("I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me") echo the sentiment embedded in ʻĂzazyâhûw.
* **God as Strength/Fortress:** God is frequently described as the strength or refuge of His people (e.g., [[Psalm 18:1]], [[Psalm 46:1]]). The name ʻĂzazyâhûw personifies this theological truth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻĂzazyâhûw lies in its explicit declaration of divine enablement. It serves as a constant reminder that true strength, particularly for spiritual service and overcoming life's challenges, originates not from human might or ingenuity but from God alone. This name counters any tendency towards self-reliance or pride, directing attention to the Lord as the ultimate source of power.
The consistent association of individuals named Azaziah with roles of service within the temple or community further amplifies this point. Whether in worship, administration, or public ceremony, their effectiveness was implicitly tied to God's strengthening hand. This name thus embodies a foundational principle of biblical theology: God equips those whom He calls, and His strength is made perfect in weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9]]). It underscores the idea that believers are merely instruments through whom God's power is manifested.
### Summary
ʻĂzazyâhûw (`{{H5812}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "Jah has strengthened." This theophoric name combines the root עָזַז (ʻāzaz, meaning "to be strong") with יָהּ (Yah, a shortened form of YHWH), directly attributing the source of strength to God. The name appears three times in the Old Testament, referring to different Israelites who served in significant capacities—a Levite musician, a temple overseer, and a priest involved in the dedication of Jerusalem's wall. In each instance, the individual's role involved service to God or the community, implicitly requiring divine enablement. Theologically, ʻĂzazyâhûw powerfully declares that all true strength, especially for sacred duties and overcoming life's adversities, flows from the Lord. It stands as a testament to God's active involvement in empowering His people, reinforcing the biblical truth that reliance on divine might is paramount for effective and faithful service.
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