Bible Dictionary
Zur
A Midianite prince killed with the kings of Midian, and a Benjamite associated with Gibeon.
Definition
Zur, meaning “rock,” is the name of a Midianite prince and of a Benjamite associated with Gibeon. The Midianite Zur was the father of the woman slain with Zimri by Phinehas.
Biblical Usage
Zur of Midian was among the leaders defeated and killed by Israel. Another Zur is listed among the Benjamites and is connected with Gibeon.
Historical Background
The name is derived from a word meaning “rock.” The reference in Joshua to Zur as a prince of Sihon is regarded in the supplied material as a gloss.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Rock. (1.) One of the five Midianite kings whom the Israelites defeated and put to death (Num. 31:8). (2.) A Benjamite (1 Chr. 8:30).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(a rock).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>zur (tsur "rock"):</p><p>(1) A prince or chief (Nu 25:15; 31:8) of Midian, father of the woman slain with Zimri by Phinehas. Jos 13:21 describes him as one of the princes of Sihon, but the reference there is regarded as a gloss.</p><p>(2) An inhabitant of Gibeon (1Ch 8:30; 9:36), to be connected probably, according to Curtis, with "Zeror" of 1Sa 9:1.</p>