### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Tsûwrîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H6700}}`, means **rock of God**. This name appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, within a single verse. It identifies a specific Israelite who held a position of leadership during the wilderness encampments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Tsûwrîyʼêl** is in [[Numbers 3:35]], where he is named as the leader of a specific Levitical family. The verse establishes his identity and role within the highly organized structure of the Israelite camp: "And the chief of the house of the father of the families of Merari was **Zuriel** the son of Abihail: these shall pitch on the side of the tabernacle northward." His mention is not part of a larger narrative but serves to document the precise order and leadership established for the tribes surrounding the tabernacle.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from his one appearance provide crucial context for understanding his position and duties:
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (chief): This title, meaning "an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik," designates Zuriel's status as an appointed leader or **prince** over his family group [[Numbers 3:35]].
* `{{H4847}}` **Mᵉrârîy** (Merari): This name identifies the specific Levitical clan to which Zuriel belonged. **Merari** was one of the sons of Levi, establishing a direct lineage for this priestly family [[Genesis 46:11]].
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh** (pitch): This verb, which means to **encamp** or pitch a tent, describes the specific duty assigned to Zuriel and his family in relation to the tabernacle, highlighting their physical proximity and role in guarding the holy site [[Numbers 3:35]].
* `{{H32}}` **ʼĂbîyhayil** (Abihail): Meaning "father (i.e. possessor) of might," this is the name of Zuriel's father, establishing his direct parentage and lineage [[Numbers 3:35]].
### Theological Significance
Despite his brief mention, the presence of **Tsûwrîyʼêl** carries theological weight by illustrating key principles:
* **Divine Order:** Zuriel's specific role as a **chief** `{{H5387}}` and his assigned location to the **northward** `{{H6828}}` side of the **tabernacle** `{{H4908}}` demonstrate God's meticulous organization for His people. Every family had an appointed place and leader, reflecting a God of structure and purpose.
* **Appointed Leadership:** As the chief of the families of **Merari** `{{H4847}}`, Zuriel represents the system of delegated authority within the tribe of Levi, which was set apart for the service of the tabernacle.
* **Symbolic Naming:** The name **Tsûwrîyʼêl** itself, "rock of God," serves as a reminder of the ultimate source of Israel's strength and stability. While a man held the title, his name pointed toward God as the true foundation of the nation.
### Summary
In summary, **Tsûwrîyʼêl** `{{H6700}}` is a name that, while appearing only once, provides a window into the detailed structure of Israelite life and worship. His identity as a Levitical chief responsible for a specific family group underscores the themes of divine order, appointed leadership, and the foundational stability provided by God, the very "rock" reflected in Zuriel's name.
TRV