plural of חֻפָּה (compare חוּפָם); Chuppim, an Israelite; Huppim.
Transliteration:Chuppîym
Pronunciation:khoop-peem'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma חֻפִּים (Chuppîym), Strong's H2650, is a masculine plural proper noun. Its base definition identifies it as the plural of חֻפָּה (chuppah), `{{H2649}}`, which primarily means a "canopy," "covering," or "bridal chamber." The underlying root concept of חֻפָּה suggests an action of "covering" or "protecting." The definition also notes a comparison to חוּפָם (Chupham), `{{H2360}}`, another personal name. Therefore, while the etymological root points to ideas of covering or protection, the primary semantic range of H2650 is limited to its function as a personal name, "Chuppim," referring to an individual or a family line within the biblical genealogies. Any deeper meaning related to "covering" is latent in the name's origin rather than explicitly applied to the biblical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
H2650, Chuppim, appears in key genealogical lists concerning the tribe of Benjamin. Its occurrences are:
* [[Genesis 46:21]]: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard." Here, Huppim is listed as one of the ten sons of Benjamin who went down to Egypt with Jacob. Notably, "Muppim" (`{{H4774}}`) is listed immediately before Huppim, and scholars often consider these to be variant spellings or closely related individuals, possibly even the same person with different transcriptions or a scribal error.
* [[1 Chronicles 7:12]]: "Shuppim also, and Huppim, the sons of Ir, and Hushim, the sons of Aher." In this passage, Huppim is presented as a son of Ir, and he is listed alongside Shuppim (`{{H7735}}`). This presents a different lineage for Huppim compared to [[Genesis 46:21]], where he is a direct son of Benjamin. This discrepancy is common in biblical genealogies, which can reflect different individuals bearing the same name, different methods of genealogical record-keeping (e.g., tribal vs. paternal descent), or the fluidity of clan affiliations over time.
* Related names like Shupham (`{{H7779}}`) in [[Numbers 26:39]], identified as a son of Benjamin and the progenitor of the Shuphamite clan, are often linked to Muppim/Huppim from [[Genesis 46:21]], further illustrating the complex and sometimes variant representation of these Benjaminite lines.
Contextually, Chuppim is always situated within an ancestral list, emphasizing his role in the lineage and tribal structure of Israel, specifically within the tribe of Benjamin. These lists were crucial for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, and the continuity of the covenant people.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **חֻפָּה (chuppah)**: `{{H2649}}`. This is the singular noun from which the proper name Chuppim is derived. Its meaning of "canopy," "covering," or "bridal chamber" provides the etymological foundation for the name, suggesting a potential original meaning of "covered" or "protected."
* **חוּפָם (Chupham)**: `{{H2360}}`. This is another Benjaminite name, explicitly compared to Chuppim in the Strong's definition. It appears as "Shupham" (`{{H7779}}`) in [[Numbers 26:39]], indicating a close phonetic and probably familial relationship. The root connection underscores a shared linguistic origin.
* **מֻפִּים (Muppim)**: `{{H4774}}`. Found in [[Genesis 46:21]], this name is often considered a variant or a very close relative of Huppim, appearing in the same list of Benjamin's sons.
* **שׁוּפִּים (Shuppim)**: `{{H7735}}`. Listed alongside Huppim in [[1 Chronicles 7:12]], this name also shares phonetic similarities and a likely common etymological root related to "covering" or "protection."
* The broader concept of **Biblical Genealogy** is central to understanding Chuppim. These lists were not merely historical records but theological statements, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through specific lineages.
### Theological Significance
As a figure primarily known through genealogical lists, Huppim's theological significance is interwoven with the broader narrative of God's covenant with Israel.
* **Divine Faithfulness and Preservation**: Huppim's inclusion in the Benjaminite lineage underscores God's meticulous care in preserving the tribes of Israel, even through the descent into Egypt and subsequent growth into a nation. Each name, including Huppim, represents a link in the chain of God's unfolding plan for His people.
* **Identity and Continuity**: The genealogies establish the identity and continuity of the Israelite tribes. Huppim's presence ensures that the lineage of Benjamin, a key tribe, is accounted for, contributing to the overall structure of the twelve tribes that form the covenant nation.
* **Providential Order**: While the root meaning of "covering" or "protection" is not directly applied to Huppim's character or actions, it subtly resonates with the overarching theme of God's providential care over His chosen people. God is the ultimate "coverer" and "protector" of Israel, ensuring their survival and growth according to His divine purpose.
* **The Nature of Biblical Truth**: The variations in Huppim's lineage across different biblical texts (e.g., [[Genesis 46:21]] vs. [[1 Chronicles 7:12]]) encourage a nuanced understanding of biblical truth. These discrepancies often reflect ancient methods of record-keeping, different perspectives on familial relationships (e.g., biological vs. clan affiliation), or the dynamic nature of oral traditions, rather than errors. The essential truth of God's covenant relationship with Israel through these lineages remains steadfast.
### Summary
H2650, Chuppim (חֻפִּים), is a proper noun appearing in the biblical genealogies, primarily as a son of Benjamin ([[Genesis 46:21]]) or a descendant within the tribe ([[1 Chronicles 7:12]]). The name is etymologically linked to חֻפָּה (chuppah), `{{H2649}}`, meaning "canopy" or "covering," and shares close connections with other Benjaminite names like Muppim (`{{H4774}}`), Shupham (`{{H7779}}`), and Chupham (`{{H2360}}`). While not a figure with an active narrative, Huppim's inclusion in the sacred genealogies is profoundly significant. It highlights God's faithfulness in preserving the lineage of Israel, establishing tribal identity, and ensuring the continuity of His covenant people. Huppim's presence, despite the minor variations in his recorded lineage, serves as a testament to the meticulous and purposeful nature of God's unfolding plan for His chosen nation.
TRV