אֶזֶל
Ezel, a memorial stone in Palestine
Definition
Ezel is a proper noun referring to a specific memorial stone in Palestine, mentioned only once in the Old Testament. It is derived from the Hebrew root meaning 'to go away' or 'departure,' which likely relates to its function as a landmark or meeting point signifying separation. In its sole biblical appearance, it serves as a prearranged sign between David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:19). There are no other major senses or meanings for this word, as it is a unique geographical marker.
Biblical Usage
The word אֶזֶל (Ezel) is used only once in the Old Testament, specifically in the historical narrative of 1 Samuel. It appears in 1 Samuel 20:19 as the name of a stone where David was to hide while awaiting a signal from Jonathan regarding King Saul's intentions. Its usage is entirely contextual to this secret meeting, with no patterns across other books or literary forms.
Etymology
Ezel comes from the Hebrew root אָזַל (ʼāzal, H235), which means 'to go away, depart, or go off.' As a proper noun derived from this verb, the name likely conveys the idea of a 'stone of departure,' possibly referencing its role as a marker for a parting or a designated place one goes to. This connection emphasizes its function as a geographical point associated with movement or separation.
Semantic Range
In ancient Israelite culture, stones often served as memorials, boundary markers, or meeting places (e.g., Genesis 28:18, Joshua 4:9). Ezel fits this pattern as a specific stone used for a clandestine rendezvous, reflecting the practical use of natural landmarks for communication and safety. Its name, hinting at 'departure,' may culturally underscore the themes of secrecy and separation present in the narrative between David and Jonathan.
אֶבֶן (ʼeven, H68) — the general Hebrew word for 'stone,' whereas Ezel is a specific named stone. מַצֵּבָה (matstsēbâ, H4676) — a 'pillar' or 'standing stone' often set up as a memorial, which Ezel may functionally resemble.
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.
Full methodology & sources →