from an unused root (meaning to be fragrant); Ziphron, a place in Palestine; Ziphron.
Transliteration:Ziphrôn
Pronunciation:zi-frone'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2202}}` (Ziphrôn) is a proper noun, specifically a place name. Its etymology is derived from an unused root, which is understood to convey the meaning "to be fragrant." Thus, while `{{H2202}}` itself denotes a geographical location, its underlying semantic core points to the concept of pleasant aroma or fragrance. This suggests that the place Ziphron may have been known for something aromatic, such as specific vegetation, or perhaps its name carried a metaphorical sense of pleasantness or desirability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2202}}` (Ziphrôn) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Numbers 34:9]]. In this passage, Ziphron is meticulously listed as a geographical marker defining the northern boundary of the land of Canaan, which was to be apportioned to the tribes of Israel. The verse reads: "and the border shall go out to Ziphron, and its end shall be at Hazar-enan; this shall be your northern border." This precise delineation of borders is part of God's explicit instructions to Moses concerning the Promised Land. The inclusion of Ziphron as a specific point on this divinely ordained frontier underscores its significance as a known landmark in ancient geography, crucial for establishing the precise extent of Israel's inheritance. While its exact modern location is debated among scholars, it is generally placed in the region north of the Hauran, possibly in what is now southern Syria or Lebanon, serving as a remote outpost on the northernmost edge of the promised territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that `{{H2202}}` is a proper noun derived from an "unused root" meaning "to be fragrant," direct etymological relatives are scarce within the biblical lexicon. However, the conceptual link to "fragrance" connects it to a broader semantic field. This field includes words related to pleasant smells, such as `{{H7381}}` (reyach, "scent" or "aroma"), often used in connection with offerings acceptable to God ([[Genesis 8:21]], [[Leviticus 1:9]]). It also relates to words like `{{H6999}}` (qetoreth, "incense"), which carries strong cultic and spiritual connotations. While Ziphron itself is a geographical marker, its name subtly evokes the idea of pleasantness or desirability. Conceptually, Ziphron is intrinsically linked to the divine promise of the land, the meticulous division of territory, and the establishment of Israel's borders, aligning with themes of divine order, covenant fidelity, and territorial inheritance.
### Theological Significance
As a boundary marker in the divinely appointed land of Canaan, Ziphron holds indirect but profound theological significance. Its inclusion in [[Numbers 34]] highlights God's sovereignty over the earth and His meticulous care in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel. The precise delineation of borders, including points like Ziphron, demonstrates God's faithfulness in granting a specific, tangible inheritance to His chosen people. It underscores that the land was not merely conquered but was a divinely measured gift. Furthermore, the root meaning "fragrant" for a place name on the border of the Promised Land could subtly suggest the inherent beauty, blessedness, or desirability of the land itself, as perceived by God. It might imply that even the farthest reaches of Israel's inheritance were pleasing in God's sight, a land flowing with milk and honey, a place of pleasantness and divine favor. Thus, Ziphron stands not just as a geographical point but as a testament to God's precise and benevolent provision for His people.
### Summary
`{{H2202}}` (Ziphrôn) is a unique proper noun, identifying a specific geographical location that served as a northern boundary marker for the land of Canaan, as recorded in [[Numbers 34:9]]. Its etymological root, though unused elsewhere, points to a meaning of "to be fragrant." Theologically, Ziphron's singular appearance underscores the meticulous nature of God's covenant promises concerning the land of Israel, emphasizing His sovereignty in defining its borders and His faithfulness in providing a precise inheritance. The subtle implication of its name, "fragrant," may also hint at the inherent pleasantness and blessedness of the land divinely bestowed upon His people.
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