### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV