Overview
Zif (also spelled Ziv) was the second month of the ancient Hebrew calendar, falling in spring. This month held significance in Israel's religious and construction history, most notably as the time when Solomon began building the temple in Jerusalem.
Key Scriptures
"In the four hundred and eightieth year after the people of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD." (1 Kings 6:1, ESV)
"In the fourth year the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid, in the month of Ziv." (1 Kings 6:37, ESV)
Application
Understanding the biblical calendar helps us appreciate the timing of God's redemptive work and the careful planning involved in constructing the temple as a dwelling place for God's presence among His people.