### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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