Uzza

The name Uzza, derived from the Hebrew root עוּז ('uz), translates to strength or power. This etymology underscores the name's profound connotation of resilience and might, qualities often associated with divine authority and protection in biblical contexts. Linguistically, Uzza shares its roots with other Hebrew names and terms that signify fortitude, reflecting its cultural and scriptural emphasis on God's omnipotence. Historically, names like Uzza were imbued with spiritual significance, serving as a reminder of the bearer’s connection to divine strength and purpose.

In biblical tradition, Uzza is a name borne by multiple individuals, each contributing uniquely to the tapestry of Israel’s history. With a Divine Proximity Index of 94.9/100, the name Uzza is deeply intertwined with sacred narratives, most notably in the story of the Ark of the Covenant. This high index reflects the name's frequent association with God's presence and divine acts. Similarly, its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its indirect theological connection to the broader redemption narrative that culminates in Christ.

The spiritual significance of Uzza is perhaps most evident in the account of Uzza, the son of Abinadab, who tragically perished while attempting to steady the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6:3–8; 1 Chronicles 13:7–14). This event underscores the sanctity of God’s presence and the reverence required in approaching holy objects. The name also appears in other contexts, such as a gardener tied to the burial of Judah’s kings and a Levite, further demonstrating its prevalence and layered meanings in Scripture. Culturally, the name serves as a reminder of human frailty and the necessity of obedience to divine commands.

The name Uzza appears in several pivotal moments in the Old Testament. Most famously, it is associated with the son of Abinadab, who was struck down by God for touching the Ark of the Covenant during its transport to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:3–8; 1 Chronicles 13:7–14). This incident, which led to the naming of the site as Perez-Uzza (‘breaking out against Uzza’), serves as a sobering reminder of the holiness of God and the consequences of irreverence.

Other mentions of Uzza include its connection to the burial site of King Manasseh and his son Amon, as recorded in 2 Kings 21:18, 26. This garden, bearing the name Uzza, likely held symbolic importance as a place of rest for two of Judah’s monarchs. Additionally, Uzza is noted as a Levite of the Merari family (1 Chronicles 6:29), a descendant of Ehud in King Saul’s lineage (1 Chronicles 8:7), and an ancestor of temple servants who returned from Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:49; Nehemiah 7:51). Each of these references contributes to the multifaceted nature of the name and its bearers’ roles in Israel’s history.