Topical Encyclopedia The Zorites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are identified as descendants of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The primary reference to the Zorites is found in 1 Chronicles 4:2, which states: "Reaiah son of Shobal was the father of Jahath, and Jahath was the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These were the clans of the Zorathites." The Zorites are thus associated with the Zorathites, indicating a connection to the region of Zorah.Genealogical Context The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites, emphasizing their heritage and God's covenantal promises. The mention of the Zorites within the tribe of Judah highlights their inclusion in the broader narrative of God's chosen people. Judah, being the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended, holds significant importance in biblical history. Geographical Association The Zorites are linked to the town of Zorah, which is located in the Shephelah region of Judah. Zorah is notably the birthplace of Samson, one of the judges of Israel, as recorded in Judges 13:2: "There was a certain man from Zorah, from the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren and had no children." Although Samson is associated with the tribe of Dan, the geographical proximity of Zorah to the territory of Judah suggests a possible overlap or interaction between the tribes. Cultural and Historical Significance While the Zorites themselves are not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, their mention underscores the intricate tapestry of Israelite society, where various clans and families contributed to the nation's identity. The genealogical records in Chronicles serve to affirm the continuity of God's promises through successive generations, with each clan playing a role in the unfolding of divine history. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Zorites in the biblical record reflects the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Israel. Every tribe and clan, regardless of their prominence or obscurity, is part of the divine plan. This reinforces the biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His people and His sovereign orchestration of history. In summary, the Zorites, though briefly mentioned, are part of the rich genealogical heritage of the tribe of Judah. Their connection to the region of Zorah and the broader narrative of Israel highlights the complexity and depth of the biblical account of God's chosen people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZORITESzo'-rits (tsor`i; Codex Vaticanus ho Hesarsei; Codex Alexandrinus ho Hesaraei): In 1 Chronicles 2:54 for "Zorites" we should probably read ZORATHITES (which see). These formed a half of the inhabitants of MANAHATH (which see). Strong's Hebrew 6882. Tsori -- inhab. of Zorah... Word Origin from Tsorah Definition inhab. of Zorah NASB Word Usage Zorathites (2), Zorites (1). Zorites, Zareathites, Zorathites. ... /hebrew/6882.htm - 6k Thesaurus Zorites (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZORITES. ... These formed a half of the inhabitants of MANAHATH (which see). Multi-Version Concordance Zorites (1 Occurrence). ... /z/zorites.htm - 7k Zorite (1 Occurrence) Salma (3 Occurrences) Zoroastrianism Netoph'athites (3 Occurrences) Netophathites (3 Occurrences) Netophathite (9 Occurrences) Man'aha'thites (1 Occurrence) Menahethites (1 Occurrence) Manahathites (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zorites (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 2:54 Subtopics Related Terms |
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