The Hebrew word ʼÔtsem, represented by H684, is the name of two Israelites. Derived from an unused root that probably means to be strong, the name itself suggests strength. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical records.
Both occurrences of H684 are found in the book of 1 Chronicles, where it serves to identify individuals within the tribe of Judah. In one instance, Ozem is listed as the sixth son and the brother of David H1732 1 Chronicles 2:15. In the other, a different Ozem is named as one of the sons H1121 of Jerahmeel H3396, who was the firstborn H1060 of Hezron H2696 1 Chronicles 2:25. These passages use the name to establish specific familial relationships within key ancestral lines.
Several related words help clarify the context in which ʼÔtsem appears:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the fundamental relationship of Ozem in both of his appearances, as a son of Jerahmeel and in the listing of the sons of Jesse.
- H1732 Dâvid (David): As the brother of the first Ozem, the name David provides a crucial link to Israel's most prominent king, placing Ozem directly within the royal family line 1 Chronicles 2:15.
- H3396 Yᵉrachmᵉʼêl (Jerahmeel): The father of the second Ozem. His identity as the firstborn H1060 of Hezron H2696 situates this Ozem within another important branch of the tribe of Judah 1 Chronicles 2:25.
- H8345 shishshîy (sixth): This ordinal number is used to specify the birth order of the first Ozem as the sixth son, immediately preceding David 1 Chronicles 2:15.
While not a major theological term, the significance of H684 lies in its placement within biblical genealogies.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of both individuals named Ozem demonstrates the meticulous preservation of the ancestral record, which is vital for establishing tribal and familial inheritance.
- Proximity to Davidic Royalty: One Ozem is the elder brother of David H1732, placing him in the immediate family of the king through whom God's covenant promises would be carried forward.
- Foundational Role in Judah: The name appears twice within the descendants of Hezron H2696, a grandson of Judah. This anchors the individuals named Ozem firmly within the lineage of the royal tribe.
In summary, H684 is the proper name ʼÔtsem, identifying two distinct men within the tribe of Judah. Although the name itself implies strength, its primary role in Scripture is genealogical. Its appearances in 1 Chronicles are significant for establishing the family structure surrounding King David and other prominent lines of descent. ʼÔtsem serves as a clear example of how every recorded name in these lists contributes to the larger biblical narrative of covenant history and lineage.
TRV