### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gûwphâh**, represented by `{{H1480}}`, refers to a **body** or **corpse**. Derived from a root meaning "closed to sense," it specifically denotes a dead body. It appears only 2 times in the Bible, both within a single unique verse, making its usage highly specific and impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H1480}}` occurs in the narrative describing the aftermath of King Saul's death. Following the battle, valiant men from Jabesh "took away the **body** of Saul, and the **bodies** of his sons" to provide them with a proper burial [[1 Chronicles 10:12]]. This act highlights the importance of honoring the dead, particularly a king and his heirs, by respectfully retrieving their physical remains.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[1 Chronicles 10:12]] help to frame the scene:
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, carry away): This verb describes the direct action performed upon the bodies of Saul and his sons. The valiant men physically lifted and **took away** the corpses from the battlefield.
* `{{H6912}}` **qâbar** (to inter, bury): This word indicates the ultimate purpose of retrieving the bodies. The remains were recovered so that they could be **buried**, an act of final respect.
* `{{H6106}}` **ʻetsem** (a bone, body): While the men took the **body** (gûwphâh), the text states they **buried** their **bones**. This related term distinguishes the flesh from the enduring skeletal frame, emphasizing the components of the physical form.
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (valor, strength): This term describes the men who performed the recovery as **valiant**. Their bravery was essential to retrieving the bodies from a place of defeat.
### Theological Significance
While its use is limited, the theological weight of `{{H1480}}` is demonstrated through the actions surrounding it.
* **Honor for the Dead:** The effort of the valiant men to retrieve the **body** of Saul and his sons underscores a profound respect for the physical person, even after death. It was an act of loyalty and honor.
* **Courage and Duty:** The recovery was a dangerous mission undertaken by **valiant** men [[1 Chronicles 10:12]]. This connects the proper handling of a **corpse** with acts of bravery and the fulfillment of a solemn duty to one's fallen leader.
* **Physicality of Death:** The term's specific focus on the corpse serves as a stark reminder of the physical finality of death and the separation of the body from life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1480}}` is a precise and rare term for a **corpse**. Its only appearance in scripture powerfully illustrates the biblical value of showing honor and respect for the dead. The narrative in [[1 Chronicles 10:12]] uses **gûwphâh** to anchor the story in the physical reality of death while simultaneously highlighting the loyalty and valor required to care for the fallen bodies of a king and his sons.
TRV