Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Zif is the name of the second month in the ancient Hebrew calendar, corresponding roughly to the modern months of April and May. This month is significant in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the construction of Solomon's Temple. The name "Zif" is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "brightness" or "splendor," which may reflect the blossoming and renewal of nature during this springtime period.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 6:1 : "In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Zif (the second month), he began to build the house of the LORD." This verse marks the commencement of the construction of the Temple, a pivotal event in Israel's history. The choice of Zif for this undertaking may symbolize new beginnings and divine favor. 2. 1 Kings 6:37 : "The foundation of the house of the LORD was laid in the fourth year, in the month of Zif." This reiteration emphasizes the importance of Zif as the time when the foundation of the Temple was established, underscoring the month’s association with foundational and significant beginnings. Cultural and Religious Significance: Zif, as the second month, follows Nisan, the first month of the Hebrew calendar, which is marked by the celebration of Passover. The transition from Nisan to Zif represents a shift from the commemoration of deliverance from Egypt to the active establishment of a permanent place of worship for the Israelites. The construction of the Temple during Zif signifies a period of stability and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. In the agricultural cycle, Zif falls during the spring, a time of growth and renewal. This seasonal context may have contributed to the symbolic meaning of the month as a time of divine blessing and prosperity. The brightness associated with Zif can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual enlightenment and glory that the Temple would bring to the nation of Israel. Historical Context: The use of the month Zif in the biblical text provides insight into the ancient Hebrew calendar system, which was lunar-based and adjusted to the solar year through the addition of intercalary months. The mention of Zif in the context of Solomon's Temple construction also highlights the importance of precise timing in the execution of significant religious and national projects. Theological Implications: Theologically, the events associated with Zif underscore the themes of divine timing and providence. The laying of the Temple's foundation during this month can be seen as an act of obedience to God's plan, reflecting the Israelites' commitment to establishing a central place of worship. The Temple itself would become a symbol of God's presence among His people, and its construction during Zif reinforces the idea of God’s active involvement in the history and destiny of Israel. In summary, Zif holds a place of prominence in the biblical narrative as a month of beginnings, divine favor, and the establishment of sacred space. Its mention in the context of Solomon's Temple construction highlights its significance in the religious and cultural life of ancient Israel. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Zifthis or that; brightness; comeliness Smith's Bible Dictionary Zif(1 Kings 6:1) [MONTH] ATS Bible Dictionary ZifThe second month of the Hebrew year, also called Iyar, and nearly corresponding to our May, 1 Kings 6:1. Easton's Bible Dictionary Brightness; splendour; i.e., "the flower month," mentioned only in 1 Kings 6:1, 37, as the "second month." It was called Iyar by the later Jews. (see MONTH.) Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The second month of the Jewish ecclesiastical year, corresponding to our May.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZIFzif. Strong's Hebrew 2099. Ziv -- the second month of the Jewish calendar... Ziv. Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition the second month of the Jewish calendar NASB Word Usage Ziv (2). Zif. Probably ... /hebrew/2099.htm - 6k Library Syriac Calendar. A Discourse Thesaurus Zif (2 Occurrences)... corresponding to our May. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ZIF. zif. See ZIV. Multi-Version Concordance Zif (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 6:1 ... /z/zif.htm - 7k Ziph (9 Occurrences) Zidonians (11 Occurrences) Ziphims (1 Occurrence) Ziphion (1 Occurrence) Ziphites (4 Occurrences) Ziglag (2 Occurrences) Ziphron (1 Occurrence) Ziv (2 Occurrences) Founded (42 Occurrences) Resources Zif: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Zif (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 6:1 1 Kings 6:37 Subtopics Related Terms |
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