### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Zîyph**, represented by `{{H2128}}`, is defined as **flowing; Ziph, the name of a place in Palestine; also of an Israelite; Ziph**. It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used both as a proper name for an individual and, more frequently, as the name of a significant location in the history of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2128}}` primarily designates a place in the territory of Judah. It is most prominent as a key setting in the story of David's flight from King Saul. David sought refuge "in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph" [[1 Samuel 23:14]], and Saul pursued him there with thousands of men [[1 Samuel 26:2]]. The location is listed as a city in Judah's inheritance ([[Joshua 15:24]], [[Joshua 15:55]]) and as one of the cities fortified by Rehoboam [[2 Chronicles 11:8]]. Less frequently, Ziph is used as a personal name within genealogies, such as a son of Jehaleleel [[1 Chronicles 4:16]] and a descendant of Caleb [[1 Chronicles 2:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words describing terrain are closely associated with Ziph, painting a picture of the landscape where David hid:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): The area is repeatedly called the "wilderness of Ziph" [[1 Samuel 23:14]], a term defined as a pasture or desert. This highlights its remote and undeveloped nature.
* `{{H2793}}` **chôresh** (wood): David found cover within this wilderness, specifically "in a wood" [[1 Samuel 23:15]]. The term denotes a forest, bough, or shroud.
* `{{H4679}}` **mᵉtsad** (strong hold): The narrative notes that David stayed in "strong holds" in the wilderness of Ziph [[1 Samuel 23:14]]. This word signifies a fastness, fort, or castle, indicating a defensible position.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2128}}` is tied to the events that unfolded there rather than to a theological concept. It represents a place of intense trial and divine deliverance.
* **Divine Providence:** The wilderness of Ziph is the setting for a clear statement of God's sovereignty. Though Saul searched for David every day, the scripture states that "God delivered him not into his hand" [[1 Samuel 23:14]].
* **A Stage for Persecution:** Ziph was the backdrop for Saul's relentless pursuit of David, illustrating the severity of the threat against God's chosen future king [[1 Samuel 26:2]].
* **A Place of Refuge:** The geographic features of Ziph, including its mountain [[1 Samuel 23:14]], wood [[1 Samuel 23:15]], and strong holds [[1 Samuel 23:14]], served as the physical sanctuary where David was preserved.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2128}}` is a proper name with a dual identity in scripture. While it appears in the genealogies of Israel ([[1 Chronicles 2:42]], [[1 Chronicles 4:16]]), its primary importance is as a geographical location. The wilderness of Ziph is not merely a name on a map but the stage for a critical episode in David's life, forever marking it as a place defined by both fierce persecution and undeniable divine protection.
TRV