### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nepheg**, represented by `{{H5298}}`, is a proper name for two Israelites. Its base definition is "a sprout," derived from an unused root that likely means "to spring forth." This name appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical lists.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H5298}}` is used to identify two distinct individuals in the biblical narrative. The first is a Levite, named as one of the sons of Izhar and the brother of Korah and Zichri [[Exodus 6:21]]. The second individual named **Nepheg** is listed among the sons of David born in Jerusalem. This lineage is recorded in multiple places, placing him alongside brothers such as Ibhar, Elishua, and Japhia ([[2 Samuel 5:15]]; [[1 Chronicles 3:7]]; [[1 Chronicles 14:6]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other names appear in the same genealogical records as **Nepheg**, establishing familial context:
* `{{H3324}}` **Yitshâr** (Izhar): As "an Israelite," he is identified as the father of the first **Nepheg**, connecting this line to the Kohathites [[Exodus 6:21]].
* `{{H7141}}` **Qôrach** (Korah): Listed as a brother to **Nepheg** in the Levitical genealogy, he is one of "three Israelites" with this name [[Exodus 6:21]].
* `{{H2984}}` **Yibchar** (Ibhar): Defined as "choice; Jibchar, an Israelite," he is named alongside the second **Nepheg** in the list of David's sons [[2 Samuel 5:15]].
* `{{H474}}` **ʼĔlîyshûwaʻ** (Elishua): Meaning "God of supplication (or of riches)," he is identified as a son of King David and is listed with **Nepheg** [[2 Samuel 5:15]].
* `{{H3309}}` **Yâphîyaʻ** (Japhia): Meaning "bright," this name belongs to an Israelite who is consistently listed with **Nepheg** in the records of David's sons ([[2 Samuel 5:15]]; [[1 Chronicles 3:7]]).
### Theological Significance
While not a term with direct theological arguments, the significance of `{{H5298}}` is found in its function within the biblical record.
* **Genealogical Marker:** The name **Nepheg** serves the vital role of preserving the specific lineages of both the priestly line of Levi and the royal line of David ([[Exodus 6:21]]; [[2 Samuel 5:15]]).
* **A "Sprout" of Promise:** The definition "a sprout" aligns with the function of a son in a genealogy, representing a new branch springing forth to continue a family line. The inclusion of **Nepheg** in these lists signifies the continuation of these important Israelite families.
* **Inclusion in the Covenant:** By being named in the official records of Israel, both individuals named **Nepheg** are documented as members of the covenant community, demonstrating the thoroughness with which the nation's history was maintained.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5298}}` is not a word of abstract concept but a specific proper name. Meaning "a sprout," its appearances are confined to genealogical lists that establish the family lines of two Israelites: one a Levite and the other a son of King David. The presence of **Nepheg** in scripture, though brief, underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage and the detailed preservation of Israel's historical and covenantal identity.
TRV