the same as צוּר; rock; Tsur, the name of a Midianite and of an Israelite; Zur.
Transliteration:Tsûwr
Pronunciation:tsoor
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H6698}}` (Tsûwr) is a proper noun, directly related to and sharing its semantic root with `{{H6697}}` (tsur), which means "rock," "cliff," or "stronghold." As a proper name, `{{H6698}}` carries the inherent connotations of its root: stability, strength, permanence, and perhaps a sense of being a foundation or a place of defense. It designates specific individuals within the biblical narrative, reflecting a common practice of naming individuals after natural features or desired characteristics.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H6698}}` (Tsûwr) appears in two distinct contexts in the Hebrew Bible, referring to two different individuals:
1. **A Midianite Chief:** `{{H6698}}` identifies one of the five kings or princes of Midian. He is mentioned in connection with the incident at Peor, where Midianite women led Israel into idolatry and sexual immorality.
* In [[Numbers 25:15]], he is identified as the "head of the people of a father's house in Midian" and the father of Cozbi, the Midianite woman slain by Phinehas alongside Zimri.
* In [[Numbers 31:8]], Tsûwr is listed among the five Midianite kings killed by the Israelites during the punitive war commanded by God. This act of judgment was a direct consequence of Midian's role in corrupting Israel. The irony of a "rock" being overthrown by divine judgment is palpable in this context.
2. **A Benjamite:** `{{H6698}}` also names a descendant of Benjamin, specifically a son of Jeiel (the "father" of Gibeon) and Maacah.
* He is listed in the genealogies of [[1 Chronicles 8:30]] and [[1 Chronicles 9:36]]. These passages serve to trace the lineage of the tribe of Benjamin, particularly those associated with the city of Gibeon. His mention here is purely for genealogical identification, without additional narrative details.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is `{{H6697}}` (tsur), the common noun meaning "rock," "cliff," or "stronghold." This is the direct semantic source for the proper noun `{{H6698}}`. `{{H6697}}` is frequently used metaphorically in Scripture to describe God as a steadfast, immutable, and protective "Rock" of refuge, strength, and salvation (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalm 18:2]], [[Psalm 62:7]]).
Another related term is `{{H6696}}` (tsur), a verb meaning "to bind," "to tie," "to besiege," or "to confine." While sharing the same root letters, its semantic connection to "rock" might be through the idea of "constraining" or "solidifying." However, it is less directly relevant to the proper noun `{{H6698}}` than `{{H6697}}`.
Concepts associated with `{{H6698}}` through its root include:
* **Strength and Stability:** The inherent qualities of a rock.
* **Refuge and Defense:** A rock can serve as a natural fortress.
* **Judgment:** Illustrated by the fate of the Midianite Tsûwr.
* **Lineage and Continuity:** Evident in the genealogical mention of the Benjamite Tsûwr.
### Theological Significance
While the common noun `{{H6697}}` (tsur) carries immense theological weight as a divine epithet for Yahweh, `{{H6698}}` (Tsûwr) itself, as a proper noun, does not directly function as a theological concept. Its theological significance is derived from the *narrative contexts* and the *identities* of the individuals bearing the name.
The demise of the Midianite Tsûwr in [[Numbers 31:8]] is a stark illustration of divine judgment against those who actively oppose God's people and lead them into sin. The name "Rock" for this chieftain stands in ironic contrast to his ultimate vulnerability and destruction at the hands of Israel, acting as God's instrument. This highlights that even those who appear strong or hold positions of power can be utterly overthrown by God's righteous wrath when they stand against His purposes.
The inclusion of the Benjamite Tsûwr in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, while not providing a specific theological lesson, underscores the meticulous preservation of tribal records within Israel. This attention to lineage was crucial for maintaining tribal identity, land inheritance, and ultimately, for tracing the messianic line. It subtly points to God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people through generations.
### Summary
`{{H6698}}` (Tsûwr) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "Rock," derived from the common noun `{{H6697}}` (tsur). It identifies two distinct figures in the biblical narrative: a Midianite chief and a Benjamite. The Midianite Tsûwr was one of the five kings slain by Israel as divine judgment for the incident at Peor ([[Numbers 25:15]], [[Numbers 31:8]]), his name ironically contrasting with his ultimate destruction. The Benjamite Tsûwr is listed in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles ([[1 Chronicles 8:30]], [[1 Chronicles 9:36]]), serving to trace tribal lineage. While its root `{{H6697}}` is a profound theological term for God, `{{H6698}}` primarily functions as a personal name, with its significance tied to the specific narrative contexts of the individuals who bore it, particularly in demonstrating divine justice and the preservation of Israel's heritage.
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