### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Kaphtôrîy**, represented by `{{H3732}}`, is a patrial term for a native of Caphtor. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. This term, often translated as Caphtorim, refers to a specific people group originating from a place called Caphtor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3732}}` is used to identify a people group in both genealogical and historical contexts. In the table of nations, the Caphthorim are listed as descendants alongside the Pathrusim and Casluhim, from whom the Philistines came ([[Genesis 10:14]], [[1 Chronicles 1:12]]). A historical account in Deuteronomy specifies that the Caphtorims came from Caphtor, destroyed the Avims who lived in the region, and settled in their place [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and actions of the Caphtorim:
* `{{H3731}}` **Kaphtôr**: This is the place of origin for the Caphtorim, described as the original seat of the Philistines. It is identified as the homeland from which God brought the Philistines [[Amos 9:7]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy**: A Philistine. The Caphtorim are genealogically linked to the Philistines, and other passages directly connect the Philistines to Caphtor ([[Jeremiah 47:4]], [[Amos 9:7]]).
* `{{H5761}}` **ʻAvvîym**: The people displaced by the Caphtorim. The Avim were destroyed by the Caphtorim, who then inhabited their land [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
* `{{H8045}}` **shâmad**: This verb, meaning to destroy or desolate, describes the action the Caphtorim took against the Avvim to take their territory [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{H3732}}` is significant in understanding regional history and the origins of a key biblical people group.
* **Genealogical Connection:** The Caphtorim are firmly placed within the lineage that produces the Philistines, establishing their ancient origins in the biblical record [[Genesis 10:14]].
* **Migration and Conquest:** They are depicted as a migratory people who forcefully took land from the Avvim, illustrating a pattern of displacement and settlement that shaped the region [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
* **Philistine Origins:** The mention of the Caphtorim provides crucial context for the origin of the Philistines, who play a major role in the history of Israel. The texts link the Philistines directly to Caphtor, the homeland of the Caphtorim [[Amos 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **Kaphtôrîy** `{{H3732}}` is more than a simple ethnic label. It identifies the people from Caphtor who are presented as the ancestors or a core component of the Philistines. Through their inclusion in genealogies and their recorded conquest of the Avvim, the term provides a historical and ethnic backdrop for one of ancient Israel's most significant neighboring peoples.
TRV