Mazzaroth
“Constellations or signs of the zodiac”
Summary
Mazzaroth is a Hebrew astronomical term appearing in Job, probably referring to the twelve signs of the zodiac that mark the sun's apparent path through the heavens during the year.
☩God's Challenge to Job
In God's interrogation of Job from the whirlwind, He asks: 'Canst thou bring forth Mazzaroth in his season?' This question, alongside references to other celestial bodies like the Pleiades, Orion, and Arcturus, emphasizes God's sovereign control over the heavenly bodies and their courses—a power far beyond human ability.
☩Meaning of the Term
The most widely accepted interpretation identifies Mazzaroth with the twelve constellations of the zodiac, through which the sun appears to pass during the year. A similar word, 'mazzaloth,' appears in 2 Kings 23:5 (translated 'planets' or 'signs of the zodiac'), where it refers to celestial objects that had become objects of idolatrous worship. The root meaning suggests 'premonitions' or 'stars that give warnings'—reflecting ancient beliefs about astral influences on earthly events.
Related Verses1 mention
Job· 1 verse
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Mazzaroth," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. V (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Mazzaroth," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. III (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).