### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chăqûwphâʼ**, represented by `{{H2709}}`, is the proper name **Hakupha**. Derived from a root possibly meaning to bend or crooked, it identifies one of the Nethinim. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical lists.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2709}}` appears in the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name is used to identify a specific family line, cited as "the children of Hakupha" in both [[Ezra 2:51]] and [[Nehemiah 7:53]]. Its inclusion in these records documents the return of this family of Nethinim to Jerusalem, highlighting their role within the restored community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the immediate context of Hakupha's family, defining the genealogical structure of the list:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This word is consistently used to establish lineage, as seen in the phrase "The children of Hakupha" ([[Ezra 2:51]], [[Nehemiah 7:53]]), indicating the descendants of this individual.
* `{{H1227}}` **Baqbûwq** (Bakbuk, one of the Nethinim): This is the name of another head of a family of Nethinim listed immediately before Hakupha, showing their connection as part of the same group returning from exile ([[Ezra 2:51]], [[Nehemiah 7:53]]).
* `{{H2744}}` **Charchûwr** (Harhur, one of the Nethinim): This name appears directly after Hakupha in the same list, identifying another family of Nethinim that was part of the community that returned to Judah ([[Ezra 2:51]], [[Nehemiah 7:53]]).
### Theological Significance
While a proper name, the context of `{{H2709}}` carries historical and theological weight.
* **Covenant Preservation:** The meticulous listing of families, including the "children of Hakupha," demonstrates God's faithfulness in preserving His people through the exile and restoring them to their land.
* **Community Restoration:** Hakupha's family is counted among the Nethinim, the temple servants. Their documented return signifies the re-establishment of the full scope of temple worship and community life in Jerusalem.
* **Genealogical Identity:** The name's presence in the official records of Ezra and Nehemiah underscores the importance of heritage and belonging in the post-exilic community. It affirms the place of this family within the nation of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2709}}` is the name **Hakupha**, identifying the patriarch of a family of Nethinim. While its occurrences are limited to two genealogical lists, its presence is significant. It serves as a marker of God's faithfulness to His people, a testament to the importance of every family in the restoration of Israel, and a record of those dedicated to serving in the temple after the return from exile.
TRV