צוּרִיאֵל (tsu.ri.el)
tsu.ri.el
Zuriel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Zuriel appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in Numbers 3:35 as the leader of the Merarite clan during the wilderness journey. It is a proper noun meaning "my rock is God," combining the word for rock with the divine name El. This brief mention identifies him as the son of Abihail and places him within the specific lineage responsible for transporting the frames and bars of the Tabernacle.
The etymology reflects a common theological theme in Israelite naming, where personal identity is anchored in divine stability. By bearing this name, Zuriel’s role as an administrative chief underscores the belief that God provides the strength necessary for leadership and service. The text uses this single reference to catalog the organizational structure of the Levites rather than to narrate a personal story.
While the name itself carries significant weight, its biblical usage is strictly genealogical. It serves to document the order of the tribes and clans as they prepared for movement from Sinai. Zuriel stands in Scripture not as an active character but as a representative of the Merarite family, illustrating the detailed record-keeping that characterized Israel’s journey through the desert.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Zuriel means "my rock is God." In Numbers 3:35, he is listed as the leader of the Merarite clan. This group had the heavy task of carrying the frames and bars of the Tabernacle. The text does not tell us his personal story or words. It simply records his name and role in the camp's organization.
For your life, this reminds you that God is your stability. Just as Zuriel’s name anchored him in God’s strength, your identity is secure in Him. You do not need to be famous or speak often to serve faithfully. God sees the quiet work of carrying burdens for His people. Your service matters, even when no one notices.
When you feel weak or overwhelmed, remember that your "rock" is God. He gives you the strength to carry what He has placed in your hands. You are part of a larger plan, just as Zuriel was part of Israel’s journey. Trust in His stability today.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [was] Zuriel1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צוּרִיאֵ֖ל1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 3:35
The prince of the fathers’ house of the families of Merari was Zuriel the son of Abihail. They shall encamp on the north side of the tabernacle.
This verse identifies Zuriel as the specific leader responsible for the Merarite clan's duties, anchoring his identity in service rather than personal narrative.