זִמְרָן (zim.ran)
zim.ran
Zimran
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Zimran is a proper name found in two verses, Genesis 25:2 and 1 Chronicles 1:32, identifying him as the eldest son of Abraham and Keturah. He stands among the six brothers born to Abraham after Sarah’s death, making him a half-brother to Isaac and Ishmael. His placement in the genealogies highlights the expansion of Abraham’s lineage through this second wife.
The name itself carries the meaning "musician" or "singer." While the biblical text does not record any specific musical activity for Zimran, the etymology suggests a connection to song or praise. This linguistic detail adds a layer of character to an otherwise brief mention in the patriarchal records.
His inclusion in both the Genesis account and the Chronicles summary serves to document the full scope of Abraham’s descendants. The repetition across these books underscores the importance of tracing family lines, ensuring that Zimran’s place in the history of Israel is preserved alongside his more prominent relatives.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Zimran means "singer" or "musician," a detail that adds a quiet warmth to his brief appearance in Scripture. Though he is primarily known as the eldest son of Abraham and Keturah, his name suggests a heart tuned to praise. In genealogies that can feel like dry lists, this linguistic hint reminds us that every person carries a unique identity within God’s larger story.
His presence in both Genesis and Chronicles highlights the breadth of Abraham’s family after Sarah’s passing. While Isaac remains the central figure of the covenant, Zimran and his brothers represent the expansive reach of God’s providence through other lines. This inclusion shows that God’s care extends beyond a single lineage, weaving many threads into one rich tapestry of history.
For you, this word invites reflection on how your own name or identity might reflect God’s gifts. Just as Zimran’s name points to song, your life may be called to offer praise in unexpected ways. Whether in joy or hardship, recognizing your place in God’s family brings comfort and purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Zimran2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- זִמְרָן֙1×
- זִמְרָ֧ן1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 25:2
She bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah.
This verse establishes Zimran as the firstborn of Abraham and Keturah, marking his primary position among the half-brothers.
-
I Chronicles 1:32
The sons of Keturah, Abraham’s concubine: she bore Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. The sons of Jokshan: Sheba and Dedan.
The Chronicler repeats this lineage to affirm the historical continuity of Abraham’s descendants from multiple wives.