The Hebrew word Chûwphâmîy, represented by H2350, is a patronymic term meaning a Chuphamite or descendant of Chupham; Huphamites. It is derived from the name Chupham H2349. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, where it serves to identify a specific family line.
The sole use of H2350 is found in a genealogical list in Numbers 26:39. The verse meticulously outlines family descent, stating, "of Hupham H2349, the family H4940 of the Huphamites H2350." This occurrence is part of a census, highlighting the importance of tracking lineage and establishing the identity of each family group within the tribes of Israel. Its usage is purely for defining a specific ancestral line.
Several related words provide context for the role and meaning of H2350:
- H2349 Chûwphâm: The proper name from which the patronymic is formed. This is the ancestor, Hupham, an Israelite, from whom the Huphamites H2350 descend Numbers 26:39.
- H4940 mishpâchâh: This word for family or kindred is directly linked to H2350 in its only appearance. It defines the Huphamites as a family unit Numbers 26:39 and is used broadly to refer to the "families of the earth" Genesis 12:3 and the "kindreds of the people" Psalms 96:7.
- H7781 Shûwphâmîy: A parallel patronymic, "a Shuphamite," used in the same verse to designate the descendants of Shephupham Numbers 26:39. This highlights the common method of forming family names.
- H8197 Shᵉphûwphâm: The name Shupham or Shephuphan, an Israelite whose descendants are listed alongside the Huphamites Numbers 26:39.
While H2350 itself does not carry broad theological weight, its context reveals key principles:
- Genealogical Precision: The existence of such a specific term demonstrates the meticulous care taken in scripture to record and preserve the lineage of the Israelite people. This record-keeping was vital for matters of inheritance and tribal identity Numbers 26:39.
- The Family as a Core Unit: The term is inseparable from the concept of mishpâchâh H4940, or family. The Bible emphasizes the family unit as foundational, from God's promise to bless all families Genesis 12:3 to His act of selecting individuals out of a family to bring them to Zion Jeremiah 3:14.
- Collective Identity: As a patronymic, H2350 identifies people collectively through a common ancestor. This structure of "kindreds" H4940 is reflected in calls to worship, where entire family groups are summoned to give glory to the Lord 1 Chronicles 16:28.
In summary, H2350 is a specific genealogical marker used once to identify the "Huphamites" as the family descending from Hupham. While its direct application is limited, its function within the biblical text underscores the profound importance of lineage, ancestral identity, and the family unit H4940 in the history and theology of Israel. It serves as a clear example of the detailed preservation of heritage within the biblical narrative.
TRV