### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsorʻîy**, represented by `{{H6882}}`, is a patrial term identifying a **Tsorite or Tsorathite**, an inhabitant of Tsorah. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, always within genealogical contexts. Depending on the passage, it is translated as **Zareathites**, **Zorites**, or **Zorathites**, consistently referring to this specific family group.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6882}}` is used exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles to define lineage and relationships between clans. The term **Zorathites** is used to collectively name the **families** `{{H4940}}` descending from Shobal `{{H7732}}` through his son Reaiah `{{H7211}}`, who in turn **begat** `{{H3205}}` Ahumai `{{H267}}` and Lahad `{{H3855}}` [[1 Chronicles 4:2]]. In a different listing, the **Zareathites** are said to have **came** `{{H3318}}` from the families of Kirjathjearim `{{H7157}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:53]]. Finally, the **Zorites** are mentioned as part of the lineage of the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Salma `{{H8007}}`, connecting them to Bethlehem `{{H1035}}` and the Netophathites `{{H5200}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:54]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the genealogical framework for the Tsorathites:
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word is essential for understanding `{{H6882}}`, as the Zorathites are explicitly identified as a collection of **families** [[1 Chronicles 4:2]]. It defines a circle of relatives and, by extension, a tribe.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This primitive root is the action that builds the genealogies where the Zorathites are found, used repeatedly to show the lineage that **begat** `{{H3205}}` the families of the Zorathites [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* `{{H7732}}` **Shôwbâl** (Shobal): A key ancestor in the tribe of Judah whose descendants include the Zorathites [[1 Chronicles 4:2]]. He is also identified as the father of Kirjathjearim `{{H7157}}`, linking the different genealogical accounts.
* `{{H7157}}` **Qiryath Yᵉʻârîym** (Kirjathjearim): A city whose families gave rise to the Zareathites `{{H6882}}`, establishing a geographical origin point for the clan [[1 Chronicles 2:53]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6882}}` is rooted in its function within the biblical record.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The primary purpose of this term is to precisely document a family line within the tribe of Judah. It demonstrates the immense value placed on heritage and the careful preservation of ancestry, as seen in the lineage from Shobal `{{H7732}}` to the **families** `{{H4940}}` of the Zorathites [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* **Territorial Identity:** As a patrial name, it intrinsically links a people to a place. The records connect the Zorathites not only to their ancestral home but also to other clans and towns like Kirjathjearim `{{H7157}}` and Bethlehem `{{H1035}}`, mapping their relationships within the promised land [[1 Chronicles 2:53-54]].
* **Covenantal Inclusion:** Being named in the official chronicles of Israel confirms the Zorathites' place within the covenant community. Their lineage is counted and remembered, affirming their role in the broader history of God's people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6882}}` is more than just a name; it is a marker of identity, heritage, and geography. Found exclusively in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, the term **Tsorʻîy** serves to anchor a specific family group within the larger narrative of Israel. It illustrates the meticulous detail with which the biblical authors recorded the lineage and relationships of the families that comprised the nation.
TRV