patronymically from חֵפֶר; a Chephrite (collectively) or descendants of Chepher; Hepherites.
Transliteration:Chephrîy
Pronunciation:khef-ree'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2662}}` (Chephrîy), transliterated as Hepherites, functions as a patronymic noun. It is derived directly from the personal name `{{H2656}}` (Chepher). As such, its core meaning denotes "the descendants of Chepher" or "the family/clan of Chepher." It refers collectively to those who trace their lineage back to the individual named Hepher. While the root `{{H2656}}` (Chepher) can relate to concepts like "a pit" or "a well," this etymological connection is not semantically active in the patronymic form `{{H2662}}`, which focuses solely on the familial relationship and identity. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, specifically identifying a particular family unit within the larger tribal structure of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2662}}` (Chephrîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Numbers 26:32]]. This solitary occurrence is found within the detailed census of the Israelites, conducted in the plains of Moab before their entry into the Promised Land. The verse states: "Of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites: these are the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph."
In this context, `{{H2662}}` serves to identify a specific subdivision within the tribe of Manasseh. Hepher (`{{H2656}}`) is identified elsewhere as a son of Gilead, who was a son of Machir, Manasseh's firstborn son (e.g., [[Numbers 27:1]], [[Joshua 17:2]]). The inclusion of the "Hepherites" in this census underscores the meticulous nature of the biblical record-keeping, which was crucial for tribal organization, military readiness, and, most significantly, the equitable distribution of land in Canaan. The census was not merely a demographic count but a foundational act for establishing the inheritance of each family according to divine instruction. The presence of `{{H2662}}` here firmly places this family line within the divinely ordered structure of the nation of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H2656}}` (Chepher):** This is the direct progenitor from whom the Hepherites derive their name. Understanding the individual "Hepher" is fundamental to understanding the collective "Hepherites."
* **Patronymics:** The formation of `{{H2662}}` exemplifies a pervasive linguistic and cultural feature in the Bible, where family or clan names are derived from an ancestral figure (e.g., "Israelites" from Israel, "Judahites" from Judah). This practice emphasizes lineage, tribal identity, and the continuity of generations, linking present communities to their historical roots.
* **Tribal Structure and Inheritance:** The Hepherites are situated within the half-tribe of Manasseh, highlighting their place in the broader Israelite tribal confederation. Their inclusion in the census is directly tied to the laws of land inheritance, as demonstrated by the prominent narrative of the daughters of Hepher (Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah) in [[Numbers 27]] and [[Joshua 17]]. These women, as Hepherites, successfully petitioned Moses for their father's inheritance, establishing a crucial legal precedent for female land ownership in the absence of male heirs.
* **`{{H4519}}` (Manasseh):** The larger tribal unit to which the Hepherites belong, providing the broader context for their identity and place within Israel.
* **`{{H1569}}` (Gilead):** The father of Hepher, further specifying the lineage and connecting the Hepherites to a prominent sub-clan of Manasseh.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of `{{H2662}}` (Chephrîy) in the biblical record, despite its singular occurrence, carries several theological implications:
* **Divine Order and Providence:** The meticulous enumeration of families like the Hepherites in the census of [[Numbers 26]] reflects God's precise ordering of His people. It demonstrates His sovereign hand in orchestrating the formation and organization of Israel, preparing them for the fulfillment of His covenant promises, particularly the inheritance of the land. This detailed accounting underscores God's comprehensive knowledge and care for every segment of His chosen nation.
* **Identity and Belonging within the Covenant:** For ancient Israel, identity was intrinsically tied to lineage and tribal affiliation. To be a "Hepherite" meant having a defined place, a heritage, and a share in the communal life and future of the nation. This speaks to God's design for community and belonging, where individuals find their identity within the larger body of His covenant people.
* **God's Justice and Equity:** While the term `{{H2662}}` itself is a simple designation, the broader narrative surrounding the daughters of Hepher (who were Hepherites) in [[Numbers 27]] and [[Joshua 17]] reveals a profound aspect of God's character: His justice and concern for equity. Their petition, which led to a new law regarding female inheritance, demonstrates God's willingness to adapt and expand His laws to ensure that justice is served and that no family line is deprived of its rightful inheritance due to circumstance. This highlights God's active involvement in the legal and social welfare of His people.
* **Faithfulness to Promises:** The very act of taking a census and delineating families like the Hepherites was part of preparing for the division of the land, a direct fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. The existence and enumeration of these families testify to God's faithfulness in multiplying Abraham's descendants and bringing them into their inheritance.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2662}}` (Chephrîy), transliterated as Hepherites, is a patronymic term signifying "the descendants of Hepher" (`{{H2656}}`). Appearing uniquely in [[Numbers 26:32]], it identifies a specific family unit within the half-tribe of Manasseh during the vital census conducted prior to Israel's entry into Canaan. This singular mention, set within the meticulous genealogical records, underscores God's precise ordering and care for His covenant people. The significance of the Hepherites extends beyond a mere name, particularly through the narrative of Hepher's daughters in [[Numbers 27]] and [[Joshua 17]], who, as members of this family, played a pivotal role in establishing divine precedent for female inheritance rights. Thus, `{{H2662}}` serves as a testament to lineage, tribal identity, God's meticulous providence, and His enduring commitment to justice and the fulfillment of His promises to His chosen nation.
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