### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsâʻîyr**, represented by `{{H6811}}`, is the proper name for **Zair**, a place located in Idumaea. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole appearance marks the location of a specific military engagement undertaken by Joram, a king of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H6811}}` is found in the historical account of [[2 Kings 8:21]]. The narrative describes King Joram `{{H3141}}` leading his chariots `{{H7393}}` and going over `{{H5674}}` to **Zair**. There, he and his forces were surrounded by the Edomites `{{H123}}`. In a dramatic turn, Joram "rose by night" `{{H3915}}` and "smote" `{{H5221}}` the army that had "compassed him about" `{{H5437}}`, striking both the Edomites and their chariot captains `{{H8269}}`. This successful counter-attack caused the enemy forces to break and flee `{{H5127}}` to their tents `{{H168}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The event at Zair is further understood through several key words from the account:
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm** (Edom, Edomites, Idumea): This term identifies the antagonists and the geographical setting. The definition of Zair places it in Idumaea, the region of the Edomites, establishing the context for the conflict with Joram [[2 Kings 8:21]].
* `{{H3141}}` **Yôwrâm** (Joram): As the king of Judah, he is the central protagonist in the narrative. The event is recorded as part of his reign and his military actions [[2 Kings 8:21]].
* `{{H5437}}` **çâbab** (to revolve, surround, or border): This verb highlights the perilous situation Joram faced, being completely encircled by the Edomite army, which necessitated a bold strategy to escape.
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This word marks the turning point of the battle, where Joram takes the offensive to smite his enemy. It signifies the decisive blow that broke the siege and scattered the opposing forces.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6811}}` is simply a location, the incident recorded there carries significance within the biblical narrative.
* **A Stage for Conflict:** The battle at Zair serves as a specific example of the recurring hostility between the descendants of Jacob (Judah) and Esau (Edom). The Edomites `{{H123}}` are frequently portrayed as adversaries, and this account provides a snapshot of that ongoing strife [[Amos 1:11]].
* **Overcoming Encirclement:** The story demonstrates a theme of deliverance from a seemingly hopeless situation. Being "compassed about" `{{H5437}}` by enemies is a common biblical metaphor for overwhelming distress, and Joram's successful breakout illustrates a dramatic reversal.
* **Decisive Leadership:** The account emphasizes the importance of decisive action. Rather than surrender, Joram "rose" `{{H6965}}` at night to "smite" `{{H5221}}` his besiegers. This act of initiative against the Edomites and the "captains of the chariots" `{{H8269}}` led directly to the enemy's flight `{{H5127}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6811}}` is the place name **Zair**, whose significance is derived entirely from its single appearance in Scripture. It serves as the backdrop for a military engagement where King Joram, though surrounded by the Edomite army, launched a successful nighttime attack to break the siege. While the word itself is geographically specific, the event at Zair provides a concise biblical illustration of conflict, strategic action, and deliverance from encirclement.
TRV