זְבוּלֻן (ze.vu.lun)
ze.vu.lun
Zebulun
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 34 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Zebulun refers to the tenth son of Jacob and Leah, as well as the tribe and territory that descended from him. The sources indicate a meaning related to "exalted" or "habitation," reflecting the hope Leah expressed when he was born (Genesis 30:20). This personal name expands quickly in the biblical narrative to identify an entire clan within the twelve tribes of Israel.
Scripture records Zebulun’s inheritance in the northern region, often described with imagery of coastal access and maritime trade. In Genesis 49:13, Jacob blesses his son by saying he will dwell at the shore of the sea, a detail that aligns with the tribe’s historical location near the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean coast. This geographical note distinguishes Zebulun from its inland neighbors.
The tribe appears frequently in census lists and military accounts, particularly in Numbers and Judges. It is noted for providing warriors who joined Deborah and Barak to fight against Sisera (Judges 4:10; 5:18). The name also surfaces in prophetic literature, such as Isaiah 9:1, where it represents a region touched by light after a period of darkness, highlighting its enduring significance in Israel’s history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Zebulun carries a sense of honor and dwelling, reflecting Leah’s hope that her husband would live with her in peace. This personal story grows into a tribal identity marked by distinct geography. The tribe was blessed with access to the sea, linking their daily life to trade and wider horizons beyond the hills. It reminds us that God places each person and community in specific contexts that shape their purpose.
History shows Zebulun not just as residents of land, but as active participants in Israel’s struggles for justice. They joined Barak and Deborah to fight oppression, showing that faith involves standing with others against injustice. Their story teaches us that our place in the world is meant for engagement and service, not isolation.
Later prophets saw this region as a place where light would break through darkness. This promise offers hope that even areas marked by struggle can become centers of renewal. We find encouragement in knowing that our current circumstances do not limit God’s ability to bring peace and visibility to our lives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 34 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Zebulun23×
- and/ Zebulun4×
- for/ Zebulun2×
- and/ from/ Zebulun2×
- <on>/ Zebulun2×
- and/ of/ Zebulun1×
- and/ in/ Zebulun1×
- O Zebulun1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- זְבוּלֻ֖ן5×
- זְבוּלֻ֔ן5×
- זְבוּלֻ֑ן5×
- לִ/זְבוּלֻ֕ן2×
- זְבֻלֽוּן\׃2×
- זְבוּלֻן֮1×
- זְבוּלֻֽן\׃\ \פ1×
- זְבוּלֻ֤ן1×
- זְבוּלֻ֗ן1×
- זְבוּלֻ֕ן1×
- זְבֻל֗וּן1×
- זְבֻל֑וּן1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 30:20
Leah said, “God has endowed me with a good dowry. Now my husband will live with me, because I have borne him six sons.” She named him Zebulun.
This verse captures the personal origin of the name, linking it to Leah's hope for marital stability and divine favor.
-
Genesis 49:13
“Zebulun will dwell at the haven of the sea. He will be for a haven of ships. His border will be on Sidon.
Jacob’s blessing specifically highlights the tribe’s unique coastal location, distinguishing their inheritance from inland neighbors.
-
Judges 4:10
Barak called Zebulun and Naphtali together to Kedesh. Ten thousand men followed him; and Deborah went up with him.
This occurrence shows the tribe actively mobilizing for battle alongside Deborah and Barak, demonstrating their commitment to national deliverance.
-
Judges 4:6
She sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedesh Naphtali, and said to him, “Hasn’t Yahweh, the God of Israel, commanded, ‘Go and lead the way to Mount Tabor, and take with you ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?
Deborah’s command to Barak explicitly includes Zebulun, confirming their essential role in the coalition against Sisera.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zebulun mean?
Where was the tribe of Zebulun located?
What role did Zebulun play in the book of Judges?
Every Occurrence (34 verses across 8 books)
Genesis 4 verses
Leah said, “God has endowed me with a good dowry. Now my husband will live with me, because I have borne him six sons.”…
Genesis 35:23The sons of Leah: Reuben (Jacob’s firstborn), Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun.
Genesis 46:14The sons of Zebulun: Sered, Elon, and Jahleel.
Genesis 49:13“Zebulun will dwell at the haven of the sea. He will be for a haven of ships. His border will be on Sidon.