from חָשַׂף; properly, drawn off, i.e. separated; hence, a small company (as divided from the rest); little flock.
Transliteration:châsiph
Pronunciation:khaw-seef'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חָשִׂף (châsiph, `{{H2835}}`) is derived from the root חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), which primarily means "to draw off," "to strip," or "to uncover." This etymological foundation imbues חָשִׂף with the core sense of being "drawn off" or "separated" from a larger entity. Consequently, its semantic range extends to denote "a small company (as divided from the rest)" or, more specifically, a "little flock." The term emphasizes not merely a quantitative smallness but also a qualitative distinction, implying a group that has been set apart or isolated, often rendering it distinct and potentially vulnerable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word חָשִׂף (châsiph, `{{H2835}}`) is notably rare, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its singular occurrence is found in [[1 Samuel 17:34]]. In this passage, David recounts to King Saul his past experiences as a shepherd: "Your servant was tending his father's sheep. When a lion or a bear came and took a lamb from the flock (חָשִׂף)."
In this context, חָשִׂף is employed to describe a "lamb from the flock" or, more broadly, a "little flock" that has been targeted by a predator. The imagery powerfully conveys the vulnerability of a small, separated portion of the main flock. David's subsequent action of rescuing the lamb underscores the shepherd's protective role over the most susceptible members of his charge. This solitary use, spoken by the future king of Israel who was himself a shepherd, provides a potent illustration of protection for the weak and exposed.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most immediate linguistic relation is to its root, חָשַׂף (chasaph, `{{H2834}}`), which signifies the act of stripping or drawing off, directly informing the meaning of חָשִׂף as something separated. Conceptually, חָשִׂף is deeply intertwined with shepherding terminology, linking it to words for sheep, lambs, and flocks (e.g., צֹאן, *tso'n*, `{{H6629}}`; כֶּבֶשׂ, *keves*, `{{H3532}}`). The vulnerability inherent in a "little flock" or a "separated lamb" naturally connects to broader biblical themes of divine protection and care for the weak. While not a direct synonym, the idea of a small, distinct group can conceptually resonate with the "remnant" (e.g., שְׁאָר, *she'ar*, `{{H7611}}`), a faithful few preserved by God, though חָשִׂף does not carry the same theological weight of divine preservation as the remnant concept.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological implications of חָשִׂף are profound, particularly when viewed through the pervasive biblical motif of the shepherd and his flock.
1. **Divine Care for the Vulnerable:** The image of a "lamb from the flock" being snatched by a predator vividly portrays vulnerability. David's courageous act of rescue foreshadows God's own diligent and powerful care for His people, especially those who are weak, oppressed, or in peril. It speaks to a God who actively intervenes to protect His own.
2. **The "Little Flock" in Redemption History:** חָשִׂף finds a powerful conceptual echo in the New Testament, notably in Jesus' words to His disciples: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom" [[Luke 12:32]]. The Greek phrase μικρὸν ποίμνιον (*mikron poimnion*, `{{G3398}}` `{{G4167}}`) perfectly mirrors the essence of חָשִׂף – a group that may be small in number and outwardly vulnerable, yet is uniquely chosen, divinely protected, and destined for an eternal inheritance.
3. **Election and Covenant:** The underlying meaning of "separated" or "drawn off" can subtly point to the concept of divine election. God sets apart a people for Himself, a "flock" that, though perhaps insignificant in worldly terms, is the object of His particular covenant love and unwavering protection.
4. **Messianic Foreshadowing:** David, the shepherd-king, protecting the חָשִׂף in [[1 Samuel 17:34]], serves as a powerful type for the ultimate Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Christ, as the true Shepherd, lays down His life for His sheep, gathering and protecting His "little flock" from all spiritual predators, ensuring their safety and eternal well-being.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חָשִׂף (châsiph, `{{H2835}}`), rooted in the concept of being "drawn off" or "separated," denotes a "small company" or "little flock." Its sole biblical appearance in [[1 Samuel 17:34]] illustrates a vulnerable lamb or small group taken from the main flock, necessitating protection. This singular usage, embedded in David's shepherd narrative, carries significant theological weight, foreshadowing God's meticulous care for the vulnerable and marginalized. It resonates deeply with the New Testament's "little flock" concept [[Luke 12:32]], signifying a divinely chosen and protected group, and ultimately points to the protective, sacrificial love of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. חָשִׂף thus encapsulates the profound truth of divine solicitude for those set apart and under His watchful care.
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