### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsᵉrîy**, represented by `{{H6874}}`, is the proper name of an Israelite, **Zeri**. It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific reference to a single individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6874}}` is in a genealogical list of musicians appointed for temple service. In [[1 Chronicles 25:3]], Zeri is named as one of the six **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Jeduthun, a leader of the Levitical singers. This family was set apart for a specific ministry: they were to **prophesy** `{{H5012}}` with a **harp** `{{H3658}}` in order to **give thanks** `{{H3034}}` and **praise** `{{H1984}}` to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. The passage notes that these sons served "under the hands of their father," indicating a structured, family-based role in the formal worship of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context illuminate the role of Zeri:
* `{{H3038}}` **Yᵉdûwthûwn** (Jeduthun): Defined as "laudatory," this is the name of Zeri's father, who was a chief musician appointed by David to lead praise [[1 Chronicles 25:1]]. His name itself reflects the ministry of praise he and his sons performed.
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word, defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name)," establishes Zeri's identity and his inherited role within the sacred musical tradition of his father's house [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (prophesy): This term describes the nature of their musical service as not merely performance but inspired communication, as they were to "speak (or sing) by inspiration" [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (praise): This word captures the ultimate purpose of Zeri's ministry, which was to "celebrate" and magnify the LORD through music [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
### Theological Significance
While Zeri is only mentioned once, his inclusion in this passage carries theological weight regarding the nature of worship.
* **Ordered Worship:** Zeri's place in a designated family of musicians shows that worship was an organized and intentional practice in Israel, with specific individuals set apart for sacred duties.
* **Prophetic Ministry of Music:** The service performed by Zeri and his family was a form of prophecy. Their music was a divinely inspired act intended to communicate truth and give **praise** `{{H1984}}` to God [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* **Familial Consecration:** The service was a family affair, passed from a **father** `{{H1}}` to his **sons** `{{H1121}}`. This underscores the importance of lineage and household dedication in serving the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6874}}` **Tsᵉrîy** is the name of an individual whose identity is tied directly to the sacred worship of Israel. Though mentioned only in a single verse, his inclusion in the list of Jeduthun's sons provides a valuable insight into the structured, prophetic, and family-oriented nature of the musical ministry established for the service of the LORD.
TRV