of uncertain derivation; Charnepher, an Israelite; Harnepher.
Transliteration:Charnepher
Pronunciation:khar-neh'fer
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2774}}` (Charnepher) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a specific individual within the biblical narrative. Its derivation is explicitly noted as "uncertain," meaning that its etymological roots and thus any inherent semantic meaning are not discernible from the available linguistic evidence. Unlike many Hebrew names that carry transparent meanings reflecting attributes, hopes, or circumstances (e.g., "Jacob" meaning "supplanter" or "Israel" meaning "struggles with God"), Charnepher does not yield such an interpretation. Therefore, its "meaning" is solely its referent: the person named Charnepher, an Israelite from the tribe of Asher.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Charnepher appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the extensive genealogical records of the book of 1 Chronicles.
* [[1 Chronicles 7:36]]: "The sons of Zophah were Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah,".
In this context, Charnepher is listed as one of the sons of Zophah, who himself is a descendant of Asher, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The passage in 1 Chronicles 7 is dedicated to detailing the lineages of the tribes of Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. These genealogies serve multiple purposes: to establish tribal identity, to trace land inheritance, to confirm priestly and royal lines, and to demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people. Charnepher's inclusion, though brief, places him firmly within the tribal structure of Israel, specifically among the descendants of Asher. His appearance in a list of brothers underscores the communal and familial nature of ancient Israelite society, where individual identity was often deeply intertwined with one's lineage and tribal affiliation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its nature as a proper noun of uncertain derivation, `{{H2774}}` does not have direct lexical cognates or a semantic field of related words in the same way a common noun or verb would. However, it is related conceptually to:
* **Genealogical Records:** Charnepher is part of a larger literary phenomenon in the Bible, particularly in Chronicles and Genesis, where meticulous genealogies are preserved. This relates to other proper names found within such lists, like `{{H6316}}` (Ben-oni) or `{{H3478}}` (Israel), though these often have discernible meanings.
* **Tribal Identity:** As a descendant of Asher, Charnepher's name contributes to the collective identity of that tribe. This connects to the broader concept of the twelve tribes of Israel and their distinct, yet interconnected, roles within the nation.
* **The Preservation of Lineage:** The inclusion of names like Charnepher, even those with no discernible etymological meaning, highlights the biblical emphasis on the continuity and preservation of the covenant people through their family lines. This concept is foundational to understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants.
### Theological Significance
While the name Charnepher itself carries no inherent theological meaning due to its uncertain derivation, its presence in the biblical text is nonetheless significant.
1. **Divine Providence in History:** The meticulous recording of names, even seemingly obscure ones like Charnepher, testifies to God's sovereign hand in the detailed history of His people. It reflects a divine interest in the individual lives that collectively form the tapestry of Israel's journey, demonstrating that every person, however briefly mentioned, holds a place in God's unfolding plan.
2. **Covenant Faithfulness:** The genealogies, including Charnepher's lineage, serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They underscore the continuity of the covenant and the unbroken line that would eventually lead to the Messiah.
3. **The Importance of Community:** Charnepher's inclusion in a list of brothers within a tribal genealogy emphasizes the communal aspect of God's covenant people. Salvation and identity in ancient Israel were deeply embedded within the family and tribal unit, highlighting the interconnectedness of individuals within God's chosen nation. The very act of listing these names affirms the reality and historicity of the people through whom God worked.
### Summary
`{{H2774}}` (Charnepher) is a proper noun referring to an Israelite from the tribe of Asher, mentioned once in [[1 Chronicles 7:36]] as a son of Zophah. Its etymological meaning is uncertain, making its semantic range limited to its function as a personal identifier. Despite the lack of an inherent meaning for the name itself, its inclusion in a detailed biblical genealogy is theologically significant. It underscores God's meticulous attention to the history of His covenant people, His faithfulness in preserving their lineage, and the vital role of tribal and familial identity within ancient Israel. Charnepher, though briefly noted, represents an individual within the grand narrative of God's providential care for His chosen nation.
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