צוּעָר (tsu.ar)
tsu.ar
Zuar
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Zuar, or tsu’ar, appears five times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily within the census lists of Numbers 1 and 2. It identifies a specific individual: the father of Nethanel, who served as the tribal leader for Issachar during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the wilderness.
Lexical sources consistently interpret Zuar to mean "little one" or "littleness." This etymology offers a quiet contrast to his official role. As the appointed chief of a significant tribe, he held considerable responsibility and authority among the twelve tribes, yet his name suggests humility or perhaps a physical stature that belied his high office.
The word does not carry abstract theological weight but serves as a concrete historical marker. It anchors the narrative of Israel’s organization in the desert, reminding readers that large communal movements were built by named individuals with ordinary-sounding names. Zuar stands alongside other leaders like Nethanel, illustrating how personal identity and tribal duty intersected in the biblical account.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Zuar appears in the census records of Numbers, identifying the father of Nethanel, the leader of the tribe of Issachar. While the meaning 'little one' might suggest insignificance, it is attached to a man who held a position of great responsibility within Israel's camp. This contrast reminds us that God often chooses those whom the world might overlook for significant roles in His plans.
When we look at the organization of the tribes, we see that every individual mattered. Zuar’s lineage was recorded so that his son could lead with authority and provide offerings for the community. It is a comfort to know that our own names and identities are known and valued by God, regardless of how small we might feel in the grand scheme of things.
These lists are not just dry data but a testament to the care God takes in preserving His people. Each name represents a life entrusted with duty and faithfulness. We can find encouragement in knowing that God sees us individually and uses us for purposes that extend beyond our own understanding, anchoring us in His larger story of redemption.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Zuar5×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צוּעָֽר\׃3×
- צוּעָֽר\׃\ \פ1×
- צוּעָ֑ר1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:8
Of Issachar: Nethanel the son of Zuar.
This verse establishes Zuar as the father of Nethanel, setting the genealogical foundation for Issachar's leadership during the wilderness journey.
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Numbers 2:5
“Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Issachar. The prince of the children of Issachar shall be Nethanel the son of Zuar.
Here Zuar’s son is designated to encamp next to Judah, highlighting the strategic placement and communal responsibility assigned to Issachar.
-
Numbers 7:18
On the second day Nethanel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, gave his offering.
This occurrence marks the specific moment Nethanel presents his offering, showing how Zuar’s lineage participated actively in the tabernacle's worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zuar mean?
Who was Zuar in the Bible?
Why is Zuar mentioned in Numbers?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Numbers 5 verses
Of Issachar: Nethanel the son of Zuar.
Numbers 2:5“Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Issachar. The prince of the children of Issachar shall be Nethanel…
Numbers 7:18On the second day Nethanel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, gave his offering.
Numbers 7:23and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, five male lambs a year old.…
Numbers 10:15Nethanel the son of Zuar was over the army of the tribe of the children of Issachar.