the same as סַף; Saph, a Philistine; Saph. Compare סִפַּי.
Transliteration:Çaph
Pronunciation:saf
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma סַף (Çaph), Strong's number `{{H5593}}`, functions as a proper noun, identifying a specific individual. According to the base definition, it refers to "Saph, a Philistine." The definition explicitly notes its identity as "the same as סַף," directing attention to `{{H5592}}` (Sippai) and implicitly to the root סַף (sap, `{{H5462}}`), which means "threshold" or "basin." While the name's etymological connection to "threshold" might suggest concepts of a gatekeeper or a prominent figure, for a proper noun, the primary semantic range is limited to the identification of the individual and his lineage. In the biblical narrative, Saph is presented as one of the descendants of the giants (Rephaim), a formidable opponent to Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Saph (`{{H5593}}`) appears in a singular, yet significant, passage within the historical books:
* [[2 Samuel 21:18]]: "After this it happened that there was war again with the Philistines at Gob; then Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph, who was one of the sons of the giant."
This verse describes an episode during the wars between Israel and the Philistines, specifically during the reign of King David. Saph is identified as "one of the sons of the giant," indicating his descent from the Rephaim (often translated as "giants"), a lineage known for their immense stature and strength. His defeat at the hands of Sibbecai, one of David's mighty men, is presented as a testament to God's continued support for Israel in subduing their enemies.
It is crucial to note the parallel account in [[1 Chronicles 20:4]], where the name of this giant is given as Sippai (`{{H5592}}`): "Now it came about after this that war broke out at Gezer with the Philistines; then Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Sippai, one of the descendants of the giants, and they were subdued." The slight variation in the name (Saph vs. Sippai) is likely a scribal or dialectal difference for the same individual, a common phenomenon in ancient texts. Both accounts affirm the identity of the slain giant and the identity of his slayer, Sibbecai. The context of both passages emphasizes the ongoing struggle against powerful Philistine warriors, particularly those of giant stature, highlighting the divine enablement given to David's forces.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of Saph (`{{H5593}}`) is enriched by examining several related words and concepts:
* **סִפַּי (Sippai, `{{H5592}}`):** As noted, this is the variant name for the same Philistine giant found in the parallel account of [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]. The close phonetic and orthographic similarity suggests they refer to the identical individual.
* **סַף (sap, `{{H5462}}`):** While `{{H5593}}` is a proper noun, its etymological root might be connected to this common noun meaning "threshold" or "basin." If so, the name could metaphorically imply a "threshold-dweller" or someone of imposing presence, standing at a boundary.
* **רָפָא (Rapha/Rephaim, `{{H7497}}`):** Saph is explicitly identified as "one of the sons of the giant" or "one of the descendants of the giants." This connects him to the Rephaim, an ancient race of formidable, often gigantic, people mentioned throughout the Old Testament. Their presence often signifies the challenges faced by Israel in possessing the land and the supernatural strength required to overcome them.
* **פְּלִשְׁתִּים (Pelishthim, Philistines):** Saph is identified as a Philistine, the primary adversaries of Israel during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. The defeat of their champions, especially giants, was a recurring theme demonstrating God's power over Israel's enemies.
* **דָּוִיד (David, `{{H1732}}`) and גִּבּוֹרִים (Gibborim, "mighty men"):** Saph's defeat occurs within the broader narrative of David's reign and the exploits of his elite warriors. The "mighty men" like Sibbecai were instrumental in securing Israel's victories, reflecting God's empowerment of His chosen leaders and their loyal followers.
### Theological Significance
The account of Saph's defeat, though brief, carries significant theological weight:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Adversaries:** Saph, as a "son of the giant," represents a formidable and seemingly insurmountable obstacle. His defeat by Sibbecai, one of David's men, underscores God's consistent ability to grant victory to His people against overwhelming odds. This narrative reinforces the theme that no enemy, however mighty, can stand against the Lord's chosen.
2. **Fulfillment of God's Promises:** The eradication of the giants, including Saph, aligns with God's promise to drive out the inhabitants of Canaan before Israel. These giants often symbolized the entrenched pagan powers and the spiritual strongholds that opposed God's plan for His people. Their defeat signifies the ongoing progress of God's redemptive purposes.
3. **Emphasis on God's Empowering Grace:** The victory is not attributed solely to Sibbecai's strength but is framed within the context of God's active presence with Israel. It highlights that God equips and empowers His servants (like David's mighty men) to accomplish His will, even when facing seemingly superior foes.
4. **Historical Validation of Davidic Kingship:** The defeat of such a fearsome Philistine giant during David's reign further solidifies his position as God's anointed king, under whom Israel achieved significant military successes and national security.
### Summary
Saph (`{{H5593}}`) is a proper noun identifying a Philistine giant, a descendant of the Rephaim, who was slain by Sibbecai the Hushathite, one of King David's mighty men. Although mentioned in only one verse ([[2 Samuel 21:18]]), his story is paralleled in [[1 Chronicles 20:4]] under the name Sippai (`{{H5592}}`). The encounter signifies God's consistent power to deliver Israel from formidable enemies, even those of immense stature and strength. Saph's defeat serves as a powerful reminder of divine sovereignty over all adversaries, the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, and the empowering grace He bestows upon those who serve Him. The narrative, though concise, contributes to the broader biblical theme of God's triumph over all opposition through His chosen instruments.
TRV