dual of חֵפֶר; double pit; Chapharajim, a place in Palestine; Haphraim.
Transliteration:Chăphârayim
Pronunciation:khaf-aw-rah'-yim
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma חֲפָרַיִם (Chăphârayim, `{{H2663}}`) is a proper noun derived from the dual form of the Hebrew noun חֵפֶר (chepher), meaning "pit" or "digging." As a dual form, חֲפָרַיִם literally translates to "double pit" or "two pits." This etymological root suggests a geographical location characterized by the presence of two prominent depressions, wells, or perhaps quarries. Its semantic range is therefore strictly limited to its function as a toponym, referring to a specific place in ancient Palestine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Chăphârayim (`{{H2663}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the detailed account of the tribal allotments in the book of Joshua.
* In [[Joshua 19:19]], Chăphârayim is listed among the cities belonging to the inheritance of the tribe of Issachar: "and Haphraim, and Shihon, and Anaharath."
The context of this solitary occurrence is a meticulous geographical inventory, delineating the boundaries and significant towns within the territories assigned to each of the Israelite tribes. Its inclusion in this divinely ordered catalogue underscores its existence as a recognized settlement within the Promised Land at the time of its distribution. As a fixed geographical marker, it contributes to the precise mapping of Israel's inheritance, serving as a tangible testament to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the singular noun חֵפֶר (chepher), from which Chăphârayim is derived. This root connects the name to concepts of excavation, digging, and the physical features of pits or wells. The dual ending emphasizes a characteristic pair.
The mention of Chăphârayim in [[Joshua 19:19]] also links it to broader biblical themes:
* **Tribal Allotments:** It is part of the extensive lists in Joshua 13-19 that detail the division of the land among the tribes, signifying the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
* **Geographical Names:** Like many biblical place names, Chăphârayim is descriptive, reflecting a notable physical feature of the locale. This practice often provided practical markers for identification and navigation in ancient times.
* **Inheritance:** The concept of *nachalah* (inheritance, `{{H5159}}`) is central to the book of Joshua, and towns like Chăphârayim represent concrete portions of this divine gift.
### Theological Significance
While Chăphârayim (`{{H2663}}`) does not carry explicit theological symbolism or narrative weight, its inclusion in the biblical text holds implicit theological significance.
1. **Divine Faithfulness:** The meticulous listing of towns such as Chăphârayim in the book of Joshua serves as irrefutable evidence of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel. The land, with all its specific features and settlements, was precisely as God had sworn to give it to His people.
2. **Divine Order and Providence:** The precise delineation of tribal boundaries and the naming of specific towns like Chăphârayim underscore God's meticulous order and providential care in establishing His people in the land. Every detail, even seemingly minor place names, points to a purposeful divine plan.
3. **Tangible Reality of Promise:** Chăphârayim, as a "double pit," represents a concrete, physical manifestation of the inheritance. It grounds the abstract concept of divine promise in the tangible reality of a specific geographical location, emphasizing that God's word is not merely spiritual but also has profound material implications.
### Summary
Chăphârayim (`{{H2663}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "double pit," derived from the root חֵפֶר (chepher). It designates a specific geographical location in ancient Palestine. Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[Joshua 19:19]], where it is listed as one of the towns within the tribal inheritance of Issachar. Theologically, the presence of Chăphârayim in the biblical record, despite its singular mention, powerfully affirms God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel, demonstrating His meticulous provision and ordered plan for their inheritance in the Promised Land. It stands as a testament to the concrete reality of divine promise enacted in history.
TRV