Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The term "Ziz" appears in the Bible in the context of a geographical location. It is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative concerning King Jehoshaphat of Judah. The name "Ziz" is associated with a pass or ascent, which holds significance in the biblical account of a miraculous deliverance. Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Ziz is found in 2 Chronicles 20:16. The passage describes a moment when the people of Judah, under the leadership of King Jehoshaphat, faced a formidable coalition of enemy forces. The text reads: "Tomorrow you are to march down against them. You will see them coming up the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the valley, facing the wilderness of Jeruel." (2 Chronicles 20:16). Historical and Geographical Context: The Ascent of Ziz is believed to be a mountain pass or a steep incline located near the wilderness of Jeruel. This area is thought to be in the region of the Dead Sea, possibly near the modern-day En Gedi. The strategic importance of such a pass would have been significant in ancient military campaigns, as controlling high ground or narrow passages could provide a tactical advantage. Theological Significance: The mention of Ziz in the biblical narrative underscores the theme of divine intervention and deliverance. In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah are instructed by a prophet not to fear the approaching armies, for the battle belongs to the Lord. The ascent of Ziz becomes a backdrop for God's miraculous deliverance, as the enemy forces are thrown into confusion and defeat themselves without Judah having to engage in battle. This event highlights the power of faith and obedience to God's instructions. Jehoshaphat's response to the threat was to seek the Lord through prayer and fasting, demonstrating reliance on divine guidance rather than solely on military might. The victory at the Ascent of Ziz serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to protect and deliver His people against overwhelming odds. Symbolic Interpretation: In a broader symbolic sense, the Ascent of Ziz can be seen as representing the challenges and obstacles believers face in their spiritual journey. Just as the people of Judah were called to trust in God's deliverance, Christians are encouraged to rely on God's strength and guidance when confronted with trials. The account of Ziz serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and obedience in the life of a believer. Conclusion: While the Ascent of Ziz is a specific geographical location mentioned in a historical context, its inclusion in the biblical narrative carries enduring lessons for faith and reliance on God. The account of Jehoshaphat's victory at Ziz continues to inspire believers to trust in God's providence and to seek His guidance in times of difficulty. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Zizflower; branch; a lock of hair Smith's Bible Dictionary Ziz(the projection), The cliff of, the pass by which the horde of Moabites, Ammonites and Mehunim made their way up from the shores of the Dead Sea to the wilderness of Judah near Tekoa. (2 Chronicles 20:16) only; comp. 2Chr 20:20 It was the pass of Ain Jidy --the very same route which is taken by the Arabs in their marauding expeditions at the present day. Easton's Bible Dictionary Projecting; a flower, a cleft or pass, probably that near En-gedi, which leads up from the Dead Sea (2 Chronicles 20:16) in the direction of Tekoa; now Tell Hasasah. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZIZ, ASCENT OFziz (ma`aleh ha-tsits; Hasae, Hasisa): A pass in the wilderness of Judea (2 Chronicles 20:16) leading from Hazazon-tamar (En-gedi, 2 Chronicles 20:2). This is generally identified with Wady Chacaca, a valley by which the ancient road from En-gedi runs toward Jerusalem. At any rate, an echo of the ancient name survives here: possibly the actual ascent was the present steep pass from En-gedi to the plateau above. See PEF, Sh XXI. Strong's Hebrew 2123a. ziz -- moving things (ie beasts)... 2123, 2123a. ziz. 2123b . moving things (ie beasts). Transliteration: ziz Short Definition: moves. ... 2123, 2123a. ziz. 2123b . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2123a.htm - 5k 2123b. ziz -- abundance, fulness 6732. Tsits -- a pass between the Dead Sea and Jer. 2124. Ziza -- two Israelites 3151. Yaziz -- an officer of David 2125. Zizah -- a Levite 4201. mezuzah -- a doorpost, gatepost 2117. Zaza -- a descendant of Judah 2104. Zuzim -- a people East of the Jordan Library List of Abbreviations Used in Reference to Rabbinic Writings ... Jehoshaphat Chaldaean Civilization Thesaurus Ziz (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ZIZ, ASCENT OF. ziz (ma`aleh ... above. See PEF, Sh XXI. Multi-Version Concordance Ziz (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles ... /z/ziz.htm - 7k Emek-ke'ziz (1 Occurrence) Wild (147 Occurrences) Beast (243 Occurrences) Ascent (32 Occurrences) Jeruel (1 Occurrence) Emek-keziz (1 Occurrence) Ziza (4 Occurrences) Ziv (2 Occurrences) Keziz (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Ziz (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 20:16 Subtopics Ziz: A Pass in the Territory of the Tribe of Judah Related Terms |
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