זוֹ (zo)
zo
this
H:DemPQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:DemP
Word Overview
The Hebrew word zo serves as a demonstrative pronoun meaning "this" or "such," functioning primarily in the feminine form to point directly at a specific person, object, or situation. Although it appears only twice in the biblical text, its usage is precise and contextually anchored. In Hosea 7:16, it identifies the subject of derision, highlighting the immediate target of mockery against Israel’s rebellion.
Its second occurrence in Psalm 132:12 shifts slightly to a relative function, translating as "which." Here, it connects back to David’s lineage, specifying the condition attached to his descendants. This dual role—pointing out a reality and linking it grammatically to what precedes it—demonstrates its utility in both identifying and relating ideas within short, poetic structures.
Lexical sources note that zo is closely related to the more common zeh ("this" masculine), but its rarity makes each instance stand out. Translators must carefully distinguish whether the word acts as a simple pointer or a connector, as seen in the contrast between the accusatory tone in Hosea and the conditional promise in Psalms.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word zo is a simple demonstrative meaning "this." It appears only twice in Scripture, yet each time it points to something specific and significant. In Hosea 7:16, it highlights the immediate consequence of rebellion, drawing attention to the reality of their situation. This precision helps readers see that God’s words are not vague but directly address the actions and outcomes of His people.
In Psalm 132:12, zo functions slightly differently, linking a promise to David’s lineage. It connects the condition of keeping God’s covenant with the blessing of enduring rule. This usage reminds us that God’s promises are concrete and tied to specific responses from His people. The rarity of this word makes its occurrences stand out, inviting careful attention to the context.
When reading these verses, notice how zo anchors the reader in the present reality or the immediate connection between action and result. It is a small word that carries weight, helping us understand that God’s interactions with humanity are specific and purposeful. This clarity encourages trust in His faithful engagement with our lives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- which1×
- this1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ז֥וֹ1×
- ז֗וֹ1×
Key Verses
-
Hosea 7:16
They return, but not to the Most High. They are like a faulty bow. Their princes will fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue. This will be their derision in the land of Egypt.
This word identifies the specific target of derision, emphasizing the direct consequence of Israel's rebellion.
-
Psalms 132:12
If your children will keep my covenant, my testimony that I will teach them, their children also will sit on your throne forever more.”
Here it acts as a connector, linking David’s descendants to the condition of keeping God’s covenant for their enduring reign.