גַּזָּם (gaz.zam)
gaz.zam
Gazzam
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Gazzam is the name of an individual mentioned in the lists of those who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Found only twice in the Hebrew Bible, in Ezra 2:48 and Nehemiah 7:50, he is identified as the head of a family of temple servants, or netinim. These were individuals dedicated to serving in the temple, often descendants of those assigned this role by earlier kings.
The name itself carries a striking meaning, translated as "devouring." While this might sound harsh in modern English, it likely reflects a characteristic trait or perhaps a metaphorical strength associated with the family line. In the context of the restoration community, names often carried theological weight, reminding the people of God’s power or their own dependence on Him.
Although Gazzam is not a major biblical figure, his inclusion in these genealogies highlights the importance of lineage and service in the post-exilic church. The careful recording of his name underscores that every member of the returning community, regardless of status, was counted and valued by God. His story is one of quiet faithfulness within a larger narrative of national restoration.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Gazzam appears in the lists of those who returned from exile, marking a family dedicated to temple service. His name means "devouring," which might seem harsh today but likely pointed to strength or intense dedication in that ancient context. These genealogies remind us that God values every person in His community, no matter how small their role.
When you read these names, think about the quiet faithfulness required to rebuild a life after loss. The returning exiles had to trust God for daily provision while restoring worship and community. Each name recorded was a testament to someone’s commitment to serve, showing that ordinary people play vital parts in God’s larger story of restoration.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Gazzam2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גַזָּֽם\׃1×
- גַזָּ֥ם1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 2:48
the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam,
This verse lists Gazzam among the returning exiles, highlighting his family's role as temple servants in the restored community.
-
Nehemiah 7:51
the children of Gazzam, the children of Uzza, the children of Paseah,
Here, Nehemiah repeats the list to confirm the same families served in the rebuilt temple, showing continuity in their dedication.