The Hebrew name Vophçîy, represented by H2058, is defined as additional; Vophsi, an Israelite; Vophsi. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text. Its sole function is to identify a specific individual within a genealogical record.
The only appearance of H2058 is in the list of the twelve spies sent to scout the land of Canaan. Vophsi is mentioned by name as the father of the spy representing the tribe of Naphtali. The verse states, "Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi" Numbers 13:14. Vophsi's identity is thus entirely linked to his son, Nahbi, and his tribal affiliation.
The context of Vophsi's name connects him to several key words that define his relationship and social standing:
- H5147 Nachbîy (occult; Nachbi, an Israelite; Nakbi): This is the name of Vophsi's son, who was selected as the representative for his tribe in the reconnaissance mission into Canaan Numbers 13:14.
- H1121 bên (a son): This term establishes the direct familial link between Vophsi and Nahbi. The concept of "son" is central to inheritance and identity throughout scripture, used to establish lineage from a father to his children Numbers 13:14 and to pass down teachings through generations Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H5321 Naphtâlîy (my wrestling; Naphtali): This identifies the tribe to which Vophsi and his son belonged. The tribe of Naphtali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel descended from a son of Jacob Genesis 30:8 and held a specific territory Joshua 20:7.
- H4294 maṭṭeh (a branch; figuratively, a tribe): This word defines the larger family and political unit that Nahbi represented. The tribal system was the foundational structure of Israelite society Leviticus 24:11.
While the name Vophsi itself does not carry direct theological weight, its inclusion in scripture highlights several important principles:
- Paternal Lineage: Vophsi is mentioned for the sole purpose of identifying his son, Nahbi. This demonstrates the critical importance of paternal lineage in establishing a person's identity and standing within the community of Israel Numbers 13:14.
- Tribal Identity: His name is preserved as part of the formal record of the twelve tribes at a pivotal moment. This connects him to the larger national structure of Israel and the specific role his tribe, Naphtali, played in God's plan Psalms 68:27.
- Historical Record: The inclusion of a minor name like Vophsi illustrates the meticulous nature of the biblical record. It grounds the narrative in specific, named individuals, reinforcing that the events described involved real people and families.
In summary, H2058 Vophsi is a name that appears once in the Bible, existing only to provide the paternal ancestry for Nahbi, the spy from Naphtali. Though a minor figure, his mention underscores the biblical emphasis on genealogy, tribal structure, and the detailed recording of Israel's history. His significance lies not in any recorded action but in his role as a father, linking his son to the broader story of the twelve tribes.
TRV