Zimri

The name Zimri, derived from the Hebrew זִמְרִי (Zīmrī), carries the meaning '(God is) my protection,' emphasizing divine safeguarding and providence. Linguistically, the name is rooted in Semitic traditions, reflecting the theophoric elements common in ancient Hebrew names. Some interpretations also suggest an alternative meaning of 'praiseworthy,' showcasing the multifaceted cultural and spiritual connotations of the name. Historically, Zimri was used in biblical contexts to denote individuals of varied significance, often connected to moments of divine intervention or judgment.

The name Zimri is associated with five distinct individuals and a tribe or district in the Old Testament, each highlighting different aspects of human fallibility, divine justice, and leadership. Zimri, son of Salu, serves as an example of moral transgression and divine punishment. His act of bringing a Midianite woman into the Israelite camp during a period of repentance led to his dramatic execution by Phinehas, symbolizing zeal for God’s law. Another notable Zimri was the fifth king of Israel, whose seven-day reign ended in tragedy after his coup against King Elah. His suicide by self-immolation reflects themes of desperation and divine retribution in biblical narratives. The Divine Proximity Index of 87.9/100 and Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 signify the strong association of Zimri’s story with themes of divine justice and the broader spiritual framework of the Bible.

Zimri appears in 18 biblical verses and is central to narratives involving moral transgression, political intrigue, and divine judgment. In Numbers 25:14, Zimri, son of Salu, acts in defiance of God’s covenant by publicly engaging in sexual sin, prompting Phinehas to execute him and the Midianite woman Cozbi. This act of zeal catalyzed the Israelites’ war against the Midianites. In 1 Kings 16:8-20, Zimri emerges as a pivotal figure in Israel’s tumultuous royal succession, assassinating King Elah and exterminating the royal family of Baasha. His seven-day reign and dramatic suicide underscore the instability of Israel’s monarchy and the consequences of political ambition devoid of divine sanction. Other mentions, such as 1 Chronicles 2:6 and Jeremiah 25:25, expand Zimri’s significance by linking him to tribal dynamics and prophetic declarations of divine wrath.