from צָעַר; small; Tsior, a place in Palestine; Zior.
Transliteration:Tsîyʻôr
Pronunciation:tsee-ore'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word Tsîyʻôr (צִיעֹר, `{{H6730}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a place name. Its core meaning is derived from the root צָעַר (tsaʻar, `{{H6819}}`), which signifies "to be small," "to be little," or "to be insignificant." Therefore, Tsîyʻôr inherently carries the connotation of "smallness" or "insignificance," likely reflecting the size or perceived importance of the settlement it designates. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to this specific geographical location within ancient Israel, but the etymological root provides insight into the potential characteristics or perceptions of the place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word Tsîyʻôr (צִיעֹר, `{{H6730}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 15:54]]: "Humtah, Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), and Zior; nine cities with their villages."
This verse is situated within the meticulously detailed account of the allocation of land to the tribe of Judah, specifically listing cities located in the hill country. Tsîyʻôr is mentioned alongside other settlements, including the significant city of Hebron (Kiriath-arba). Its inclusion in this precise inventory, without further descriptive elaboration, indicates that it was a recognized, albeit perhaps minor, settlement within the tribal territory. The name itself, "smallness," may have been a direct descriptor of the town's actual physical size or its relative importance compared to larger centers like Hebron.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to Tsîyʻôr (צִיעֹר, `{{H6730}}`) is its verbal root, צָעַר (tsaʻar, `{{H6819}}`), meaning "to be small" or "to be young." From this root, other significant terms are derived, including:
* צָעִיר (tsaʻir, `{{H6810}}`): An adjective meaning "small," "little," or "young," often used to describe individuals (e.g., the youngest son).
* מִצְעָר (mitsʻar, `{{H4705}}`): A noun referring to "a little," "a small amount," or "a trifle."
The concept of "smallness" or "insignificance," as embodied by these words, stands in contrast to "greatness" (e.g., גָּדוֹל, gadol, `{{H1419}}`). Biblically, God frequently demonstrates His power and chooses to work through that which is perceived as small or weak by human standards (e.g., Israel as the smallest of nations in [[Deuteronomy 7:7]], or David, the youngest son, chosen as king). While Tsîyʻôr is a place name, its etymological root subtly connects it to this broader theological motif.
### Theological Significance
As a geographical proper noun, Tsîyʻôr (צִיעֹר, `{{H6730}}`) does not directly convey a specific theological doctrine. Its primary significance is historical and geographical, serving as a marker within the divinely apportioned land of Israel. However, the meticulous listing of even seemingly "small" or "insignificant" places like Tsîyʻôr in the book of Joshua underscores profound theological truths. It highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, by providing a precise inheritance for each tribe ([[Genesis 15:18]]). Every plot of land, every city—no matter how minor—was part of God's comprehensive and detailed plan for His people. This attention to detail demonstrates God's meticulous care and the surety of His word. The name Tsîyʻôr, meaning "small," can serve as a subtle reminder that God's divine plan encompasses all elements, from the grandest to the most humble, affirming that nothing is overlooked in His providential design.
### Summary
Tsîyʻôr (צִיעֹר, `{{H6730}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, a place name meaning "smallness" or "insignificance," derived from the root צָעַר (tsaʻar, `{{H6819}}`). It appears once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Joshua 15:54]], as a city allotted to the tribe of Judah in the hill country. While Tsîyʻôr itself does not carry direct theological significance, its inclusion in the detailed land apportionments emphasizes God's meticulous fulfillment of His covenant promises. The naming of even a "small" town within the divine inheritance highlights God's comprehensive sovereignty and care over every detail of His people's lives and their promised land, underscoring that nothing is too insignificant for His divine plan.
TRV