feminine of זִיף; a flowing; Ziphah, an Israelite; Ziphah.
Transliteration:Zîyphâh
Pronunciation:zee-faw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Zîyphâh (`{{H2129}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is the feminine form of a root *zîyp*, meaning "a flowing." This etymological root suggests concepts of movement, abundance, or perhaps even a continuous stream. While the name itself refers to an individual and not directly to the act of flowing, the underlying semantic range evokes fluidity, progression, or a source from which something issues forth. As a proper noun, its primary function is identification within a lineage, rather than conveying a direct descriptive meaning in its biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Zîyphâh (`{{H2129}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the genealogies recorded in the book of Chronicles.
* **[[1 Chronicles 4:16]]**: "And the sons of Jehaleleel: Ziph, and Ziphah, Tiria, and Asareel."
In this solitary occurrence, Ziphah is listed as one of the four sons of Jehaleleel, who is a descendant of Judah. This verse is part of an extensive genealogical record of the tribe of Judah, which the Chronicler meticulously preserves. The context is purely genealogical, serving to trace the lineage and tribal divisions of Israel after the return from exile. Ziphah is presented as an individual within this unbroken line, contributing to the historical continuity of God's people. There are no narrative details provided about Ziphah's life, actions, or significance beyond his inclusion in this lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Zîyphâh (`{{H2129}}`) is etymologically linked to the concept of "flowing." While there isn't a direct Strong's number provided for the masculine form *zîyp* in the sense of "flowing" as a standalone word, the definition clearly indicates this derivation. Other words in Hebrew that convey ideas of flow, abundance, or emanation might share conceptual parallels, though not direct lexical ones. For instance, words related to springs (e.g., עַיִן, *ayin*, `{{H5869}}`), rivers (e.g., נָהָר, *nahar*, `{{H5104}}`), or the outpouring of blessing could evoke a similar sense of continuous movement or provision. The primary related concept, however, is the meticulous preservation of genealogies, particularly within Chronicles. This highlights the importance of lineage, tribal identity, and the historical continuity of God's covenant people. Names like Ziphah, though seemingly minor, are crucial threads in the larger tapestry of Israel's history.
### Theological Significance
As a name found exclusively in a biblical genealogy, Zîyphâh's (`{{H2129}}`) theological significance is primarily found in its contribution to the overarching narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. The detailed genealogies in Chronicles serve several theological purposes:
1. **Continuity of God's Covenant:** They demonstrate the unbroken line of descent, particularly from Judah, through whom the Messiah would eventually come. Every name, including Ziphah, affirms the continuous unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
2. **Identity and Heritage:** For the post-exilic community, these lists reinforced their identity as the chosen people of God, connecting them to their ancestral roots and the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
3. **Divine Providence:** The inclusion of seemingly obscure names like Ziphah underscores God's meticulous attention to every individual within His plan. No life is insignificant in the grand scheme of His purposes.
4. **Foundation for Messiah:** The lineage of Judah, in which Ziphah is found, is the royal line from which King David and ultimately the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would descend. Thus, Ziphah's inclusion, however brief, contributes to the historical bedrock upon which the hope of salvation rests. While the name's etymological meaning of "flowing" is not explicitly tied to Ziphah's life or role, it could subtly symbolize the continuous "flow" of life and heritage through the generations, culminating in the fulfillment of God's promises.
### Summary
Zîyphâh (`{{H2129}}`) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, appearing only once in [[1 Chronicles 4:16]] as the name of a descendant of Judah. Derived from a root meaning "a flowing," the name itself evokes concepts of movement or continuity. Despite its singular and brief appearance within a genealogical list, Zîyphâh's inclusion holds significant theological weight. It serves as a testament to the meticulous preservation of Israel's lineage, affirming God's covenant faithfulness, establishing the identity of His people, and tracing the historical path towards the promised Messiah. The presence of such names, even without accompanying narrative, underscores the divine providence that guides every life within the unfolding drama of salvation history.