Cozbi

Cozbi (Biblical Hebrew: כָּזְבִּי) is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The name means "my lie, my deception" in Hebrew, derived from the root kazav, meaning "to lie, to deceive." The variant form Kazbi appears in Biblical Hebrew.

Etymology and Meaning

The name Cozbi is formed from the Hebrew root k-z-v, which conveys falsehood or deceit. Its meaning reflects the narrative context in which the name appears, as it belongs to a Midianite woman whose relationship with an Israelite man led to divine punishment.

Biblical Narrative

In the Old Testament, specifically in Numbers 25:6–18, Cozbi is identified as the daughter of Zur, a prominent Midianite leader. She became involved with Zimri, an Israelite from the tribe of Simeon. Their public union occurred during a time when the Israelites were being admonished not to intermingle with Midianites or worship Baal. According to the narrative, Phinehas, the grandson of Aaron, witnessed this and took a spear, killing both Cozbi and Zimri by piercing them together. This act is said to have stopped a plague that had been sent by God as punishment for the Israelites' idolatry.

Notable Bearers

Cozbi bears the same name as a prince of the Midianite people mentioned in Joshua 13:21, but the name is most famously associated with the women in Numbers 25. In Jewish and Christian traditions, Cozbi is sometimes seen as a symbol of seduction and the consequences of straying from religious teachings.

Cultural Significance

The name Cozbi is rare and is primarily known through its biblical context. It is used in some English Bible translations and has occasionally been adopted as a given name, though it remains uncommon. The story of Cozbi and Zimri has been explored in theological discussions about interfaith relationships, purity, and divine justice.

• Meaning: "my lie, my deception"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: First Name
• Usage Regions: English Bible usage