### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Chophnîy**, represented by `{{H2652}}`, refers to a specific Israelite. The name, possibly meaning pugilist, appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Chophni is known exclusively as one of the two sons of Eli, the high priest, serving as a priest in Shiloh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Chophni is introduced alongside his brother Phinehas as one of the two sons of `{{H5941}}` Eli, serving as priests of the `{{H3068}}` LORD [[1 Samuel 1:3]]. He and his brother are later present with the ark of the covenant when it is brought to a battle against the Philistines [[1 Samuel 4:4]]. His story reaches its conclusion with his death, which fulfills a divine sign prophesied against his family: that he and Phinehas would both die on the same day [[1 Samuel 2:34]]. A messenger later reports that the prophecy was fulfilled, stating that Chophni and Phinehas are dead and the ark of God has been taken ([[1 Samuel 4:11]], [[1 Samuel 4:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential to understanding Chophni’s identity and role:
* `{{H5941}}` **ʻÊlîy** (lofty; Eli, an Israelite highpriest): This is the name of Chophni's father. Chophni's identity in scripture is inseparable from his father, as he is always identified as a son of `{{H5941}}` Eli [[1 Samuel 1:3]].
* `{{H6372}}` **Pîynᵉchâç** (mouth of a serpent; Pinechas, the name of three Israelites; Phinehas): This is Chophni’s brother. Chophni is never mentioned alone but always appears with `{{H6372}}` Phinehas, with whom he shares his priestly duties and his fate [[1 Samuel 4:11]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word defines Chophni's relationship to Eli. In every biblical appearance, he is called one of the two **sons** of Eli [[1 Samuel 4:4]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (one officiating, a priest): This designates the sacred office held by Chophni. He and his brother are explicitly referred to as "the **priests** of the LORD" [[1 Samuel 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of Chophni's story is centered on the theme of divine judgment.
* **Fulfilled Prophecy:** Chophni’s narrative is a direct illustration of fulfilled prophecy. A sign was given that he and his brother would **die** on the same day, an event that came to pass exactly as foretold [[1 Samuel 2:34]].
* **Priestly Judgment:** The death of Chophni and Phinehas coincides with the capture of the ark of God, marking a moment of great spiritual failure and national crisis for Israel [[1 Samuel 4:17]].
* **The Finality of Judgment:** The scriptures state plainly that the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were **slain** [[1 Samuel 4:11]]. The use of the word `{{H4191}}`, meaning to die or be killed, underscores the definitive and severe nature of the judgment enacted upon them.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2652}}` Chophnîy is a figure defined entirely by his familial relationship, his priestly office, and his role in a specific, tragic event in Israel's history. He is always presented as one of the two sons of Eli who served as priests. His brief and tragic narrative serves as a stark biblical example of divine judgment, where his prophesied death is directly linked to a period of great loss for the nation of Israel.
TRV