Ozni is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Gad was the seventh son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Ozni is listed among the descendants of Gad, forming part of the tribal lineage that would become one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

Ozni is specifically mentioned in the genealogical records found in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 26:16, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These were the descendants of Gad by their clans: The Ozni clan from Ozni, the Eri clan from Eri." This passage is part of a larger census taken by Moses and Eleazar the priest, which records the number of men eligible for military service from each tribe as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Gad, to which Ozni belonged, was known for its warrior-like characteristics. Jacob's blessing over Gad in Genesis 49:19 reflects this martial spirit: "Gad will be attacked by raiders, but he will attack their heels." This prophecy highlights the tribe's resilience and ability to defend itself against adversaries. The tribe of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in a region known for its fertile land and strategic military importance.

Name and Meaning:

The name "Ozni" is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often associated with the idea of "listening" or "hearing." This etymological connection may suggest a characteristic or role within the tribe, although the biblical text does not provide further details about Ozni's personal life or deeds.

Historical and Theological Context:

Ozni's mention in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. The genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as a means of establishing identity and continuity for the people of Israel. Each clan within a tribe contributed to the collective identity and strength of the nation.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Ozni in the biblical record reflects the broader theme of God's covenantal relationship with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The tribes of Israel, including Gad and his descendants, were integral to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, as they were chosen to be a people set apart for His purposes.

Conclusion:

While the Bible provides limited information about Ozni himself, his inclusion in the genealogical records of the tribe of Gad highlights the significance of family and tribal affiliations in the history of Israel. As a descendant of Gad, Ozni is part of the larger narrative of God's chosen people, whose history and legacy continue to be studied and revered in the Judeo-Christian tradition.Numbers 26:16
Of Ozni, the family of the Oznites: of Eri, the family of the Erites:
Nave's Topical Index

244a. Ozni -- "my hearing," a son of Gad
... 244, 244a. Ozni. 244b . "my hearing," a son of Gad. Transliteration: Ozni
Short Definition: Ozni. Word Origin from the same as ozen ...
/hebrew/244a.htm - 5k

244. Ozniy -- "my hearing," a son of Gad
... 243, 244. Ozniy. 244a . "my hearing," a son of Gad. Transliteration: Ozniy
Phonetic Spelling: (oz-nee') Short Definition: Ozni. Ozni, Oznites ...
/hebrew/244.htm - 5k

Chapter xlvi
... it is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten ... And the sons of Gad:
Ziphion, and Haggi ... in Numbers as "Zephon." "Ezbon" becomes "Ozni," and "Arodi ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

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