Lexical Summary
ziqnah: Old age, elderliness
Original Word:זִקְנָה
Part of Speech:Noun Feminine
Transliteration:ziqnah
Pronunciation:zik-NAH
Phonetic Spelling:(zik-naw')
KJV: old (age)
NASB:old age, old
Word Origin:[feminine ofH2205 (זָקֵן - elders)]
1. old age
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
old age
Feminine ofzaqen; old age -- old (age).
see HEBREWzaqen
NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Originfem. of
zoqenDefinitionold age
NASB Translationold (2), old age (4).
Brown-Driver-Briggs
—
Psalm 71:9 2t.; construct
1 Kings 11:4; suffix
1 Kings 15:23;
Genesis 24:36; —
old age, ""
Psalm 71:18;
Isaiah 46:4;
in the time of old age1 Kings 11:4;
1 Kings 15:23;
Psalm 71:9; (i.e. after she had become old)
Genesis 24:36 (J).
Topical Lexicon
OverviewThe noun זִקְנָה denotes the state of advanced age. Scripture presents it neither as a purely negative decline nor as an automatic badge of honor; rather, it is a season whose value is determined by one’s relationship with the LORD and one’s response to His purposes.
Occurrences in Scripture
•Genesis 24:36
•1 Kings 11:4
•1 Kings 15:23
•Psalm 71:9
•Psalm 71:18
•Isaiah 46:4
Old Age as a Time of Divine Intervention (Genesis 24:36)
“My master’s wife Sarah has borne him a son in her old age, and he has given him everything he owns.”
Sarah’s זִקְנָה becomes the theatre for a miracle that confirms God’s covenant faithfulness. The verse frames old age as no obstacle to God’s creative power, illustrating that His promises transcend biological limitations.
Old Age as a Season of Spiritual Vulnerability (1 Kings 11:4)
“For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods…”
The narrative warns that years of accumulated blessing do not immunize the heart against idolatry. Solomon’s failure underscores the need for lifelong vigilance and devotion.
Old Age and Bodily Frailty (1 Kings 15:23)
“…in his old age he was diseased in his feet.”
Asa’s physical decline illustrates the universal reality of bodily deterioration. Yet the chronicler includes it in a wider context of Asa’s accomplishments, showing that infirmity does not nullify a life of faithfulness.
Old Age and Dependence on God (Psalm 71:9, 18)
“Do not discard me in my old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails.”
“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, until I proclaim Your strength to this generation…”
The psalmist models candid prayer, coupling a plea for continued support with a commitment to intergenerational testimony. Old age is portrayed as a platform for declaring God’s power to those who follow.
Old Age and Covenant Assurance (Isaiah 46:4)
“Even to your old age I will be the same, and even to your gray hairs I will carry you…”
The prophet voices divine commitment to sustain Israel to the very end. God’s unchanging nature stands in contrast to human frailty, providing the ultimate security for the aging believer.
Historical and Cultural Background
In ancient Israelite society, longevity was associated with wisdom, yet also with dependency. Elders often held communal authority, but the elderly could be vulnerable due to physical weakness. Consequently, the community bore responsibility for their honor and care, as later codified in commands such as “Honor your father and your mother.”
Theological and Ministry Implications
1. Continuity of Promise: From Sarah to Isaiah, God remains active in the lives of His people regardless of age.
2. Perseverance: Solomon’s decline cautions against complacency; finishing well is a biblical priority.
3. Testimony:Psalm 71 positions the aged as indispensable witnesses who steward the memory of God’s works.
4. Pastoral Care: The recurring pleas and assurances call the covenant community to uphold, value, and listen to its elderly members.
Practical Applications for Contemporary Believers
• Encourage seasoned saints to share testimonies of God’s faithfulness, enriching congregational memory.
• Develop ministries that address both spiritual and physical needs of older members, reflecting divine compassion.
• Teach lifelong discipleship, emphasizing that spiritual vigilance must outlast physical vigor.
• Cultivate intergenerational relationships where the wisdom of age informs the zeal of youth.
Summary
זִקְנָה marks a stage of life uniquely suited for witnessing God’s sustaining grace. Scripture records miracles, warnings, prayers, and promises surrounding old age, collectively affirming that the LORD carries His people from cradle to crown, calling them to finish their course in steadfast faith and fruitful proclamation.
Forms and Transliterations
זִקְנַ֣ת זִקְנָ֑ה זִקְנָ֨ה ׀ זִקְנָה֙ זִקְנָת֔וֹ זִקְנָתָ֑הּ זקנה זקנת זקנתה זקנתו zikNah zikNat ziknaTah ziknaTo ziq·nā·ṯāh ziq·nā·ṯōw ziq·nāh ziq·naṯ ziqnāh ziqnaṯ ziqnāṯāh ziqnāṯōw
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