Zina, also referred to as Zizah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Levi. The name Zina appears in the context of the Levitical families, which were set apart for specific religious duties and responsibilities in ancient Israel. The Levites played a crucial role in the spiritual life of the Israelites, serving in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

Zina is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 23:10-11, where the genealogies of the Levites are detailed. The passage reads:

"Shimei had four sons: Shelomoth, Haziel, Haran, and Zina. These were the heads of the families of Ladan. The sons of Shimei: Jahath, Zizah, Jeush, and Beriah. These were the sons of Shimei—four in all." (1 Chronicles 23:10-11)

In this passage, Zina is listed among the sons of Shimei, who was a descendant of Levi through Gershon. The mention of Zina in the genealogical records highlights the importance of family lineage and the organization of the Levitical duties among the descendants of Levi.

Role and Significance:

The Levites, including the family of Zina, were entrusted with various responsibilities related to the worship and religious practices of Israel. They were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel; instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself, and they were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people (Numbers 18:20-24).

The genealogical records, such as those in 1 Chronicles, served to establish the legitimacy and continuity of the Levitical priesthood and their service in the Temple. Each family within the tribe of Levi had specific roles, and these records ensured that the duties were passed down through the generations.

Name Variations:

The name Zina is also rendered as Zizah in some translations and manuscripts. This variation in spelling is not uncommon in ancient texts, where transliteration and translation practices could lead to different renderings of the same name. Despite the variation, both names refer to the same individual within the genealogical context.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Understanding the role of Zina within the Levitical genealogies provides insight into the broader cultural and religious framework of ancient Israel. The Levites were integral to maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people, facilitating worship, and ensuring the proper observance of the Law.

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles, including the mention of Zina, reflect the chronicler's emphasis on the continuity and faithfulness of God's promises to Israel. By preserving these records, the chronicler sought to remind the post-exilic community of their identity and heritage as God's chosen people, called to live in obedience and service to Him.1 Chronicles 23:11
And Jahath was the chief, and Zizah the second: but Jeush and Beriah had not many sons; therefore they were in one reckoning, according to their father's house.
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