The Hebrew proper name Chăsûwphâʼ, represented by H2817, is derived from a root meaning nakedness. In scripture, it functions as the name Chasupha or Hasupha, identifying the head of a family of the Nethinim. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, both times within a genealogical context.
In the biblical narrative, H2817 is used exclusively within the post-exilic census lists recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah. These lists document the families who returned to Judah from the Babylonian captivity. In both instances, the name appears in the identical phrase, "the children H1121 of Hasupha H2817," identifying a specific lineage among the Temple servants (Ezra 2:43; Nehemiah 7:46).
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Chasupha's family:
- H5411 Nâthîyn (Nethinims): This term identifies the group to which Chasupha's descendants belonged, defined as one given, i.e. (in the plural only); the Nethinim, or Temple-servants (as given to that duty). They were an established part of Israelite society alongside the priests and Levites 1 Chronicles 9:2.
- H1121 bên (son): Defined as a son (as a builder of the family name), this word is used to establish the genealogical link to Hasupha, signifying his role as the patriarch of this family line Ezra 2:43.
- H6727 Tsîychâʼ (Ziha): This is the name of another Nethinim family head, whose children are listed immediately before those of Hasupha, showing their close association within the community Nehemiah 7:46.
- H2884 Ṭabbâʻôwth (Tabbaoth): The children of Tabbaoth are listed directly after the children of Hasupha, further defining this specific grouping of Nethinim families returning from exile Ezra 2:43.
The historical significance of H2817 is tied to its role in documenting the restored community of Israel.
- Genealogical Preservation: The name Hasupha is preserved as a genealogical marker, identifying one of the founding families of the Nethinims H5411 who were integral to the functioning of the second Temple.
- Post-Exilic Identity: The inclusion of "the children of Hasupha" in the official records of Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the importance of every family group, including Temple servants, in the reconstitution of the nation after the exile (Ezra 2:43; Nehemiah 7:46).
- Role of the Nethinim: The mention of this family helps define the Nethinim as a distinct and organized group within Israel. They were under specific leadership, dwelt in designated areas like Ophel, and were counted among those who returned to Jerusalem to serve God Nehemiah 11:21.
In summary, H2817 is the proper name Chasupha or Hasupha, the patriarch of a family of Nethinim. Though appearing only twice, its presence in the census lists of Ezra and Nehemiah is significant. It serves as a historical marker, providing a specific identity to one of the Temple servant families and underscoring their recognized place within the community of Israel that returned from Babylonian exile.
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