Zur

The name Zur originates from the Hebrew root word tsur (צוּר), which means 'a rock' or 'a stone.' This connotation of stability, strength, and permanence aligns with the symbolic use of rocks throughout biblical scripture, often representing God’s steadfastness and reliability. In ancient Hebrew culture, names carried significant meaning, and a name like Zur would evoke imagery of immovable strength and divine support. Historically, the name reflects the cultural and spiritual emphasis on the enduring nature of faith and divine protection.

The name Zur is associated with two prominent Old Testament figures, each embodying different aspects of biblical history and theology. The first is Zur, the son of Jehiel, who is noted as a founder of Gibeon (1 Chronicles 8:30; 9:36). His lineage emphasizes the importance of familial and tribal connections in Israel’s history, highlighting his role in establishing a significant city in the tribal allotments. The second Zur is a king of Midian, father of Cozbi, and a central figure in a dramatic episode involving Israel’s disobedience and God’s judgment (Numbers 25:15). He was slain by the Israelites during their divinely commanded conquest (Numbers 31:8; Joshua 13:21), marking him as a symbol of opposition to God’s covenant people.

The name Zur appears in five distinct biblical verses, each contributing to its narrative significance. In 1 Chronicles 8:30 and 9:36, Zur is identified as the son of Jehiel, tying him to the genealogies that underscore Israel’s tribal and familial heritage. This mention situates Zur within the framework of covenantal history, reflecting the importance of lineage in God’s unfolding plan.