אֲזִקִּים
manacles
Definition
The Hebrew noun אֲזִקִּים refers to a type of metal restraint, specifically manacles or fetters used to bind the hands or feet of a prisoner. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the physical chains used by the Babylonian military to secure captives. The word conveys a strong sense of captivity, subjugation, and loss of freedom, as seen when Jeremiah is released from these bonds (Jeremiah 40:4). It is a specific term for a prisoner's shackles, distinct from more general words for chains or bonds.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in the book of Jeremiah, in the context of the Babylonian siege and exile. It appears in Jeremiah 40:1 and 40:4, describing the manacles that were on the prophet Jeremiah when he was taken captive with other Judahites. The usage is literal and concrete, directly tied to the historical event of Jerusalem's fall and the physical imprisonment of its people by the conquering army.
Etymology
The word אֲזִקִּים is considered a variation or by-form of זִיקָה (ziqah, H2131), which means a 'chain' or 'fetter.' This root is likely related to the concept of 'spark' or 'flash,' possibly evoking the image of gleaming metal. The development of meaning connects the shining quality of metal to the specific object—shackles—made from it.
Semantic Range
While primarily a concrete object, אֲזִקִּים carries theological weight as a symbol of the covenant curses and judgment for disobedience. In Jeremiah, the manacles physically manifest the prophecy of Babylonian captivity (Jeremiah 20:4-6). The prophet's subsequent release from them (Jeremiah 40:4) can be seen as a sign of God's preserving grace for His messenger even amidst national judgment, hinting at hope and restoration for the remnant.
In the ancient Near East, metal manacles were a standard tool for securing high-value prisoners of war or criminals, preventing escape during transport. They were likely made of bronze or iron. Their use by the Babylonians on Jeremiah and others was a deliberate act of humiliation and control, marking individuals as conquered property. This differs from a modern understanding of handcuffs, as these ancient fetters were often heavier and could bind ankles as well.
מוֹסֵר (mowcer, H4147) — a more general term for bonds or bands, often used metaphorically for oppression or sickness. נְחֹשֶׁת (nechosheth, H5178) — means 'bronze' or 'copper,' the material from which such fetters were commonly made, emphasizing the substance rather than the object.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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