the same as צְרִי; Tseri, an Israelite; Zeri. Compare יִצְרִי.
Transliteration:Tsᵉrîy
Pronunciation:tser-ee'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term צְרִי (Tsᵉrîy), cataloged as `{{H6874}}`, functions primarily as a proper noun, identifying an individual. Its base definition, "the same as צְרִי," explicitly links it to `{{H6875}}`, which denotes "balm" or "balsam." Thus, while `{{H6874}}` itself refers to a person, its etymological root strongly suggests a meaning associated with the medicinal and aromatic substance. This connection implies that the name "Tseri" or "Zeri" likely carried the connotation of "my balm," "balm-like," or perhaps even "precious" or "healing," drawing from the properties of balm as a soothing and valuable commodity. Unlike common nouns or verbs, a proper noun's semantic range is limited to the identity it designates, but its underlying etymology can imbue it with symbolic resonance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun צְרִי (Tsᵉrîy), `{{H6874}}`, appears in the Old Testament in a singular instance:
* **[[1 Chronicles 25:3]]**: "Of Jeduthun: Gedaliah, and Zeri, and Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, six, under the hands of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied with the harp, to give thanks and to praise the Lord."
In this context, Zeri (Tsᵉrîy) is listed as one of the six sons of Jeduthun, a prominent Levitical musician appointed by King David to minister before the ark of God and to lead worship in the Temple. The passage details the organization of the Temple musicians into twenty-four divisions, each serving in rotation. Zeri's inclusion in this esteemed lineage underscores his role within the Levitical service, specifically within the sacred sphere of Temple music and prophecy. His name is embedded within a genealogical and administrative record, highlighting the meticulous order established for worship in ancient Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical relationship for `{{H6874}}` is with `{{H6875}}` (צְרִי, *tsᵉrî*), which directly means "balm" or "balsam." This connection is crucial for understanding the potential symbolic weight of the name Tseri. Balm was a highly valued commodity in the ancient Near East, known for its medicinal properties (e.g., [[Jeremiah 8:22]], [[Jeremiah 46:11]]) and its use in anointing and perfumery (e.g., [[Genesis 37:25]]).
Another related proper noun mentioned in the Strong's definition is יִצְרִי (Yitsriy), `{{H3330}}`, transliterated as "Izri." While the exact etymological link between Tseri and Izri is not explicitly defined beyond a suggested comparison, it points to a potential familial or tribal connection, or perhaps a variant spelling or pronunciation over time.
Conceptually, the word relates to:
* **Temple Worship and Music**: As a son of Jeduthun, Tseri's life was intrinsically linked to the organized worship and musical liturgy of the Temple, emphasizing praise, thanksgiving, and prophecy through instruments.
* **Levitical Service**: His lineage places him within the tribe of Levi, set apart for sacred service to God.
* **Genealogy and Divine Order**: His inclusion in the Chronicler's detailed records speaks to the importance of lineage and the divinely ordained structure of Israelite society and worship.
### Theological Significance
While Tseri is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, his existence and role carry subtle theological significance. His inclusion in the detailed Levitical genealogies of 1 Chronicles underscores God's meticulous care for the ordering of His worship and His people. Every individual, even those mentioned briefly, plays a part in the divine tapestry.
The etymological connection of his name to "balm" (צְרִי, `{{H6875}}`) offers a layer of reverent contemplation. Balm symbolized healing, comfort, and preciousness in the ancient world. If his name indeed carried this meaning, it might subtly allude to:
* **The healing and comforting nature of God's presence in worship**: As a musician, Tseri's role was to facilitate an encounter with God through praise, which can bring spiritual healing and comfort to the worshiper.
* **The preciousness of those dedicated to God's service**: Just as balm was a valuable commodity, those who served in the Temple, particularly in sacred music, were precious in God's sight.
* **A prophetic hope**: In a broader sense, the "balm" motif points forward to the ultimate healing and restoration found in the Messiah, the true "Balm of Gilead" ([[Jeremiah 8:22]]) who brings ultimate spiritual healing. Tseri's life, though small in scope, contributes to the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan, which culminates in the ultimate healing of humanity.
### Summary
צְרִי (Tsᵉrîy), `{{H6874}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun designating an Israelite named Tseri or Zeri. Its primary occurrence is in [[1 Chronicles 25:3]], where he is identified as one of the sons of Jeduthun, a Levitical musician serving in the Temple. Lexically, `{{H6874}}` is directly linked to `{{H6875}}`, meaning "balm" or "balsam," suggesting the name likely carried connotations of healing, comfort, or preciousness. While a minor figure, Tseri's inclusion in the biblical record highlights God's meticulous ordering of Temple worship and the value placed on individuals dedicated to His service. His name, potentially signifying "my balm," subtly connects to the broader biblical themes of divine healing, comfort, and the preciousness of those consecrated to God's praise.
TRV