### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6644}}` (צִבְיָא, Tsibyâʼ) is a masculine proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is a variant or related form of `{{H6643}}` (צִבְיָּה, Tsibyah). The root of both names is צְבִי (tsᵉbî), also `{{H6643}}`, which carries a semantic range encompassing "beauty," "glory," "splendor," or "gazelle." Therefore, the name Tsibyâʼ inherently conveys meanings such as "my desire," "my delight," "beauty," or "gazelle." In the context of a personal name, it likely functioned as an auspicious appellation, signifying a child who was considered desirable, beautiful, or possessed qualities akin to a graceful gazelle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H6644}}` (Tsibyâʼ), transliterated as Zibia in many English versions, appears only once in the Hebrew Bible: [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. In this solitary occurrence, Tsibyâʼ is listed within an extensive genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin. Specifically, he is identified as one of the sons of Shaharaim by his wife Hodesh, alongside his brothers Jobab, Mesha, Malcam, Jeuz, Sachia, and Mirmah. The passage reads: "And by Hodesh his wife he fathered Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, Malcam, Jeuz, Sachia, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of fathers' houses." [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. The context is purely genealogical, providing no further narrative details about Tsibyâʼ's life, actions, or significance beyond his familial lineage within a prominent Benjaminite clan. His inclusion affirms his historical existence as part of the intricate tribal records preserved by the Chronicler.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related term to `{{H6644}}` is `{{H6643}}` (צִבְיָּה, Tsibyah). While `{{H6644}}` is presented as a masculine name, `{{H6643}}` is used as a feminine name (e.g., Zibiah, the mother of King Joash, in [[2 Kings 12:1]] and [[2 Chronicles 24:1]]). Both names share the common etymological root צְבִי (tsᵉbî), also `{{H6643}}`, which fundamentally means "beauty," "glory," or "gazelle." This root is significant in other biblical contexts, often referring to the "beauty" or "glory" of a land (e.g., "the glorious land" in [[Daniel 11:16]]) or the "beauty of Israel" ([[2 Samuel 1:19]]). The practice of naming children after desirable qualities or animals was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, reflecting hopes, circumstances of birth, or perceived characteristics. Thus, Tsibyâʼ aligns with other names that convey positive attributes, even if the specific reason for its application to this individual is not stated.
### Theological Significance
Although Tsibyâʼ is a minor figure, his presence in the meticulous genealogies of 1 Chronicles carries implicit theological significance. The Chronicler's emphasis on detailed lineages underscores God's faithfulness in preserving the tribal structures and covenant people of Israel. Every name, including Tsibyâʼ, represents an individual whose life was part of the larger tapestry of God's redemptive history, leading ultimately to the Messiah. This meticulous record-keeping reflects a divine oversight of history and a valuing of individual identity within the collective. While the name Tsibyâʼ itself does not convey an explicit theological message, its underlying meaning of "beauty" or "delight" can be seen as a subtle echo of God's appreciation for His creation and His people. The very act of being named and remembered in the sacred text, however briefly, affirms the divine attention to human lives.
### Summary
`{{H6644}}` (צִבְיָא, Tsibyâʼ) is a masculine proper noun, appearing uniquely in [[1 Chronicles 8:9]] as one of the sons of Shaharaim in the Benjaminite genealogy. Etymologically linked to `{{H6643}}` (צִבְיָּה, Tsibyah) and the root צְבִי (tsᵉbî), the name conveys meanings such as "beauty," "glory," or "gazelle." While no narrative details are provided for Tsibyâʼ beyond his familial placement, his inclusion in the Chronicler's extensive genealogies serves to affirm the historical continuity of Israel's tribal lines and God's faithful preservation of His people. The presence of even seemingly minor names in the biblical record highlights the divine value placed on each individual life within the grand scope of salvation history.
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