from עוּז; strengthfulness; Aziza, an Israelite; Aziza.
Transliteration:ʻĂzîyzâʼ
Pronunciation:az-ee-zaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term 'Ăzîyzâʼ (`{{H5819}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates derivation from the root עוּז ('ûz, `{{H5797}}`), which carries the core meaning of "to be strong," "to be mighty," or "to be powerful." Consequently, the name 'Ăzîyzâʼ itself signifies "strengthfulness," "mighty," or "powerful." It encapsulates an abstract quality of vigor and might, embodied in an individual's designation. This etymological connection emphasizes a characteristic of robustness, whether physical, moral, or spiritual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name 'Ăzîyzâʼ (`{{H5819}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, in the book of Ezra.
* [[Ezra 10:27]]: "Of the sons of Zattu: Elioenai, Eliashib, Mattaniah, Jeremoth, Zabad, and Aziza."
In this sole occurrence, Aziza is listed among the "sons of Zattu" who had taken foreign wives during the post-exilic period. This chapter records a significant moment of national repentance and purification, where the people, under the leadership of Ezra, confessed their sin of intermarriage with foreign women and pledged to put them away. The context does not provide any specific details about Aziza's character or actions beyond his inclusion in this list of those who transgressed and subsequently agreed to rectify their error. The name's meaning, "strengthfulness," stands in interesting juxtaposition to the spiritual weakness implied by taking foreign wives, yet it could also subtly allude to the inner strength or resolve required to participate in such a difficult act of communal repentance and obedience to God's law.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for 'Ăzîyzâʼ (`{{H5819}}`) is its root, 'ûz (`{{H5797}}`), which functions as both a verb meaning "to be strong" and a noun meaning "strength," "might," or "power." Other closely related Hebrew terms include:
* 'az (`{{H5794}}`): An adjective meaning "strong," "mighty," or "fierce."
* 'oz (`{{H5797}}`): The noun form, identical to the root, signifying "strength," "power," or "might." This is a foundational concept throughout the Old Testament, often attributed to God.
* 'uzzîy (`{{H5813}}`): A possessive form meaning "my strength."
Conceptually, 'Ăzîyzâʼ relates to the broader biblical themes of divine power, human fortitude, and the spiritual strength necessary for faithfulness. It connects with other Hebrew words for strength such as gĕbûrâ (`{{H1369}}`, "strength, power, might, valor") and kōaḥ (`{{H3581}}`, "strength, power, ability").
### Theological Significance
While Aziza himself is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, the theological significance of his name lies in its inherent meaning: "strengthfulness." The concept of strength is a pervasive and profound theological theme in Scripture. God is frequently depicted as the ultimate source of strength and might, often referred to as the "strength of Israel" or the "strength of my life" ([[Psalm 18:1]], [[Psalm 46:1]], [[Isaiah 40:29]]). Believers are exhorted to find their strength in the Lord ([[Ephesians 6:10]]) and to rely on His power rather than their own.
The name Aziza, meaning "strengthfulness," could have been given with the hope or expectation that the individual would embody such a quality. In the context of Ezra 10, where Aziza is listed among those who had to put away foreign wives, the name's meaning takes on a nuanced theological dimension. It highlights the spiritual strength, conviction, and obedience required to conform to God's commands, even when doing so involves significant personal sacrifice and communal restructuring. This act of purification demanded not physical might, but a profound spiritual fortitude and a resolute will to honor the covenant with God.
### Summary
'Ăzîyzâʼ (`{{H5819}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "strengthfulness" or "mighty," derived from the root 'ûz (`{{H5797}}`), which denotes "strength" or "power." It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Ezra 10:27]], identifying an Israelite among those who had taken foreign wives and subsequently participated in the communal repentance and purification. Although a minor figure, the name's inherent meaning connects to the overarching biblical theme of strength—both the divine might of God and the spiritual fortitude required of humanity for obedience, faithfulness, and righteous living. The context of Ezra suggests that Aziza's name, "strengthfulness," might subtly underscore the spiritual resilience needed to rectify past transgressions and adhere to God's covenant.
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