Lexical Summary
Yaziz: To move, to shake, to stir
Original Word:יָזִיז
Part of Speech:Proper Name Masculine
Transliteration:Yaziyz
Pronunciation:yah-ZEEZ
Phonetic Spelling:(yaw-zeez')
KJV: Jaziz
NASB:Jaziz
Word Origin:[from the same asH2123 (זִיז - Abundance)]
1. he will make prominent
2. Jaziz, an Israelite
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
Jaziz
From the same asziyz; he will make prominent; Jaziz, an Israelite -- Jaziz.
see HEBREWziyz
NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Originfrom the same as
zizDefinitionan officer of David
NASB TranslationJaziz (1).
Brown-Driver-Briggs
1 Chronicles 27:31.
II. (be abundant, compare especially Assyrianzâzu,abundance, DlPr. 67 f. ZimBP 94, 97; only as √ of following; perhaps related to I. (compare Thes), but this very dubious).
Topical Lexicon
OverviewThe Hebrew proper name יָזִיז appears once in the Old Testament, identifying Jaziz the Hagrite, a chief officer in King David’s royal administration (1 Chronicles 27:31). Though mentioned briefly, his role and background add valuable texture to the picture of David’s kingdom and provide enduring ministry lessons.
Biblical Context
Jaziz is listed among the overseers of King David’s royal possessions in a chapter that details the military divisions, tribal leaders, and stewards who supported David’s reign. The Chronicler’s careful record underscores the king’s commitment to order, delegation, and accountability.
“Over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagrite. All these were officials in charge of the property of King David” (1 Chronicles 27:31).
Historical Setting
Around the tenth century B.C., David’s expanding realm required a highly organized bureaucracy. Livestock—sheep, goats, and possibly camels—were essential for food, sacrificial worship, and trade. Placing a trusted officer over these animals protected national wealth and ensured regular provision for temple services and the royal household.
Responsibilities over David’s Flocks
• Guarding and numbering herds to prevent loss (compare1 Samuel 17:34–36 for dangers shepherds faced).
• Managing breeding to maintain flock strength and health.
• Coordinating shearing, tithes, and sacrificial supply, supporting worship in accordance with Mosaic law (Leviticus 1:10;Numbers 28:3–4).
• Reporting to higher officials like Joash over the royal storehouses (1 Chronicles 27:25) to integrate resources into the wider economy of Israel.
Relation to the Hagrites
The Hagrites, descendants of Hagar through Ishmael (Genesis 25:12), dwelt east of the Jordan. Their expertise with flocks and nomadic life made them natural candidates for livestock oversight. David’s employment of a Hagrite reflects:
• The integration of foreigners who submitted to Israel’s God and king (compare1 Samuel 22:23;2 Samuel 11:3).
• The fulfillment of God’s promise that Abraham’s wider family would serve Israel’s purposes (Genesis 17:20–21).
Spiritual Significance
Shepherd imagery saturates Scripture, portraying God’s care for His people (Psalm 23:1) and prefiguring Jesus Christ, “the good shepherd” who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). Jaziz’s stewardship illustrates how God appoints faithful servants to protect and nourish His flock, foreshadowing pastoral ministry in the church (Acts 20:28;1 Peter 5:2–4).
Ministry Lessons
1. Faithful administration—Even seemingly mundane duties such as livestock management advance God’s kingdom when performed with integrity (Colossians 3:23–24).
2. Inclusive service—Background or ethnicity does not bar a believer from meaningful service; commitment to the Lord’s cause does (Ephesians 2:13–19).
3. Delegated authority—David’s structured system mirrors the New Testament principle of shared leadership for effective ministry (Exodus 18:21;Acts 6:3).
Christological Insights
David’s reliance on shepherd-stewards like Jaziz anticipates the greater Son of David, Jesus Christ, who entrusts under-shepherds with His flock until His return (John 21:15–17). The competence and fidelity expected of Jaziz remind present-day leaders that they serve under the Chief Shepherd, whose appearing will bring the unfading crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4).
Key Reference
1 Chronicles 27:31
Forms and Transliterations
יָזִ֣יז יזיז yā·zîz yaZiz yāzîz
Links
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