or חֲשֻׂפָא; from חָשַׂף; nakedness; Chasupha, one of the Nethinim; Hashupha, Hasupha.
Transliteration:Chăsûwphâʼ
Pronunciation:khas-oo-faw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חֲשׂוּפָא (Chăsûwphâʼ), Strong's number `{{H2817}}`, is primarily a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the verb חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), which carries the core meaning of "to strip, to uncover, to lay bare, to draw out (water)." Thus, etymologically, Chăsûwphâʼ would signify something "stripped," "uncovered," or "bare." While the root verb can denote vulnerability, exposure, or even an act of drawing forth, when applied as a proper name, its precise nuance for the individual is not explicitly stated. It may have been descriptive of the person's character, circumstances, or perhaps even a metaphorical reference to their humble or "unadorned" status. However, within the biblical corpus, H2817 functions exclusively as a proper noun, referring to an individual within a specific group.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
חֲשׂוּפָא (Chăsûwphâʼ) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within the lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Judah with Zerubbabel.
1. [[Ezra 2:43]]: "The Nethinim: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabbaoth,"
2. [[Nehemiah 7:46]]: "The Nethinim: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabbaoth,"
In both occurrences, Chasupha is listed as the head of a family among the Nethinim (נְתִינִים, Nethinim, `{{H5411}}`). The Nethinim were a class of temple servants, often of non-Israelite origin, who were "given" (from נָתַן, nathan, `{{H5414}}`, "to give") to serve the Levites and the sanctuary. Their duties typically involved menial tasks such as drawing water, hewing wood, and other forms of labor for the temple. The inclusion of Chasupha's descendants in these post-exilic lists signifies their participation in the restoration of the Judean community and the temple service. Despite the etymological connection to "nakedness" or "being stripped," which might suggest a humble or even subservient status, their presence in these meticulous genealogies underscores their recognized and essential role in the re-establishment of worship in Jerusalem. The name itself, while potentially descriptive, does not carry any negative connotation in its biblical usage as a proper noun; rather, it identifies a family unit dedicated to sacred service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to חֲשׂוּפָא (Chăsûwphâʼ) is its root verb, חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`). This verb is used in various contexts:
* To "uncover" or "strip" an arm, signifying preparedness for action or judgment ([[Isaiah 52:10]], [[Ezekiel 4:7]]).
* To "uncover" or "draw" water from a well ([[Genesis 24:20]]).
* To "strip" or "make bare" a land or people, often in the context of judgment or desolation ([[Isaiah 20:4]], [[Jeremiah 13:26]]).
* Figuratively, to "uncover" shame or nakedness ([[Lamentations 4:21]]).
The connection of Chăsûwphâʼ to this root suggests a concept of being "laid bare" or "uncovered." While the root can imply vulnerability or exposure, in the context of a name, it might have signified simplicity, humility, or perhaps a life laid open before God.
Another crucial related concept is the "Nethinim" (נְתִינִים, Nethinim, `{{H5411}}`). This group, to which Chasupha's descendants belonged, represents those "given" to the service of the Lord's house. Their existence highlights the diverse contributions to the worship life of Israel, encompassing not only priests and Levites but also those in more humble, yet vital, roles.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חֲשׂוּפָא (Chăsûwphâʼ) lies not in its etymological root's potential meanings, but primarily in its identity as one of the Nethinim families returning from exile.
1. **Inclusivity of God's People:** The meticulous listing of Nethinim, alongside priests, Levites, and other families, demonstrates God's inclusive plan for His people. It underscores that all who are devoted to His service, regardless of their origin or social standing, are valued and remembered in His divine economy. The Nethinim, often seen as a lower class of temple servants, are nevertheless integral to the post-exilic community's restoration.
2. **Dignity of Humble Service:** The presence of names like Chasupha in the sacred texts elevates the significance of humble, even menial, service in the house of the Lord. It suggests that being "uncovered" or "laid bare" for God's work, in the sense of surrendering oneself fully to His purpose, is a commendable and recognized act of devotion.
3. **God's Remembrance:** The fact that these families are named and their lineage preserved in the biblical record speaks to God's meticulous remembrance of all who serve Him. Even those who perform tasks perceived as less prestigious are not forgotten by God, and their contributions are vital to the functioning of His covenant community.
4. **Restoration and Rebuilding:** The return of the Nethinim, including the family of Chasupha, was essential for the practical functioning of the rebuilt temple. Their presence symbolizes the comprehensive nature of God's restoration work, which involved not just the physical structures but also the re-establishment of all necessary roles and functions for proper worship and community life.
### Summary
חֲשׂוּפָא (Chăsûwphâʼ), Strong's number `{{H2817}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun, specifically the name of a family head among the Nethinim who returned from Babylonian exile. Etymologically derived from the verb חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), meaning "to strip" or "to uncover," the name itself suggests "stripped" or "uncovered." Biblically, it appears in [[Ezra 2:43]] and [[Nehemiah 7:46]], identifying a lineage of temple servants. The significance of Chasupha lies in its representation of the Nethinim, a group dedicated to the humble service of the sanctuary. Their inclusion in the post-exilic lists underscores the divine value placed on all forms of service within God's community, the inclusivity of His people, and His faithful remembrance of those who contribute to the rebuilding of His worship. The name, while possibly descriptive of humility or dedication, ultimately stands as a testament to the essential and honored role of even the "uncovered" servants in God's redemptive plan.
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