from עוּז and אֵל; strengthened of God; Aziel, an Israelite; Aziel. Compare יַעֲזִיאֵל.
Transliteration:ʻĂzîyʼêl
Pronunciation:az-ee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun עֲזִיאֵל (ʻĂzîyʼêl, `{{H5815}}`) is a theophoric name, meaning "strengthened of God" or "my strength is God." It is a compound word derived from two elements:
1. **עוּז (ʻūz, `{{H5797}}`):** This root carries the primary meaning of "strength," "refuge," or "might." It often denotes a source of power, protection, or security.
2. **אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`):** This is the common Semitic word for "God" or "deity," specifically referring to the one true God of Israel in the biblical context.
Thus, the name encapsulates a profound theological statement: that strength, resilience, or refuge is found in God alone. This reflects a common practice in ancient Israelite nomenclature, where names often served as declarations of faith, prayers, or affirmations of divine attributes. The passive participle form implied in "strengthened of God" suggests an individual who has received strength or empowerment *from* God, rather than being inherently strong on their own.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name עֲזִיאֵל (ʻĂzîyʼêl, `{{H5815}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 15:20]]: "and Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with harps set to Alamoth;"
In this passage, Aziel is listed among the Levite musicians appointed by King David to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Specifically, he is identified as one of the musicians playing "harps set to Alamoth," likely referring to a higher register or a particular musical style. His inclusion in this list of dedicated temple servants underscores the importance of his role in the sacred worship of Israel. The context highlights a moment of significant national and religious transition, as the Ark, representing God's presence, is brought to its permanent resting place. Aziel's participation in this solemn and joyous procession indicates his standing within the Levitical order and his contribution to the liturgical life of the nation.
It is worth noting the close phonetic and semantic relationship with יַעֲזִיאֵל (Yaʻăzîyʼêl, `{{H3268}}`), found in [[1 Chronicles 15:18]]. While some textual traditions or translations may conflate these, the Hebrew Masoretic Text distinguishes them. Both names convey the idea of divine strength, with Yaʻăzîyʼêl meaning "God strengthens" or "He whom God strengthens." The presence of two distinct but similarly themed names among the Levite musicians suggests a common spiritual emphasis within this lineage on God as the ultimate source of their ability and service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of עֲזִיאֵל (ʻĂzîyʼêl, `{{H5815}}`) naturally connects to several related Hebrew words and theological concepts:
* **עוּז (ʻūz, `{{H5797}}`):** The root from which the name's meaning of "strength" is derived. This root appears frequently in the Old Testament to describe God as a refuge or source of power (e.g., [[Psalm 27:1]], [[Psalm 46:1]]).
* **אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`):** The divine component of the name, emphasizing God's identity and involvement. This foundational term for God is central to Israelite theology.
* **יַעֲזִיאֵל (Yaʻăzîyʼêl, `{{H3268}}`):** As noted, this related name also means "God strengthens" and appears in the same chapter of 1 Chronicles among the Levites. The similarity underscores a shared theological emphasis on divine empowerment for service.
* **חֶסֶד (ḥesed, `{{H2617}}`):** While not directly related etymologically, the concept of divine strength often accompanies God's steadfast love and faithfulness, which are encapsulated in *hesed*. It is God's *hesed* that provides the strength.
* **Divine Empowerment for Service:** The name Aziel, in the context of a Levite musician, highlights the biblical theme that human ability for sacred service (whether in music, priesthood, or leadership) is not inherent but divinely bestowed and sustained. This concept resonates throughout the scriptures, from the equipping of Bezaleel and Oholiab for tabernacle construction (e.g., [[Exodus 31:3]]) to the anointing of kings and prophets.
### Theological Significance
The name ʻĂzîyʼêl, "strengthened of God," carries profound theological significance, particularly when viewed in the context of its sole biblical appearance:
1. **God as the Source of Strength:** The primary theological message is that all true strength, especially for divine service, originates from God. Aziel's name serves as a constant reminder that his ability to play the harp in worship, and indeed his very existence and purpose, are gifts from the Almighty. This counters any notion of self-sufficiency or reliance on human prowess.
2. **Divine Enablement for Worship:** Aziel's role as a musician in the sacred procession of the Ark underscores that worship is not merely a human endeavor but an act enabled and empowered by God. The beauty and order of the Levitical music were not simply artistic expressions but divinely inspired offerings, made possible by individuals who were "strengthened of God" for that very purpose. This principle extends to all forms of spiritual service, emphasizing that effective ministry flows from divine grace and empowerment.
3. **Theological Naming Convention:** The name exemplifies the Israelite tradition of naming children with theological declarations. These names served as perpetual testimonies to God's character, His covenant faithfulness, and His active involvement in the lives of His people. Aziel's name would have been a daily confession of dependence upon God for strength and sustenance.
4. **Continuity of Divine Provision:** Even in a single occurrence, the name points to a consistent biblical theme: that God provides the necessary strength for His people to fulfill their callings, whether in times of peace, war, or sacred duty. This reassurance is foundational to faith, particularly when facing daunting tasks or periods of weakness.
### Summary
The Hebrew name עֲزִיאֵל (ʻĂzîyʼêl, `{{H5815}}`), meaning "strengthened of God," is a powerful theological statement embedded within a personal name. Composed of the roots for "strength" (`{{H5797}}`) and "God" (`{{H410}}`), it declares divine empowerment as the source of human capability. Its sole biblical appearance in [[1 Chronicles 15:20]] identifies Aziel as a Levite musician instrumental in the sacred procession of the Ark of the Covenant, highlighting God's provision of strength for worship and service. The name resonates with the broader biblical theme of divine enablement, emphasizing that all true ability for spiritual tasks originates from God. It stands as a testament to the ancient Israelite practice of embedding profound theological truths within personal names, serving as a constant reminder of God's active and sustaining presence in the lives of His chosen servants.
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