from סַף; bason-like; Sippai, a Philistine; Sippai. Compare סַף.
Transliteration:Çippay
Pronunciation:sip-pah'-ee
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Çippay (`{{H5598}}`) is a proper noun, specifically identifying an individual. Its base definition indicates a derivation "from סַף" (çaph, `{{H5592}}`), suggesting a meaning of "bason-like." The root word סַף (çaph) primarily denotes a "basin," "bowl," "cup," or "threshold." While the etymological connection to "bason-like" or "threshold" might hint at physical characteristics (e.g., large, massive like a basin; or a formidable barrier like a threshold), for a proper name, its semantic range is primarily restricted to its function as an identifier of a specific person. Thus, Çippay signifies "Sippai," a notable Philistine figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Çippay (`{{H5598}}`) appears in the Hebrew Bible in a single instance:
* **[[1 Chronicles 20:4]]**: "Now it came to pass after this that war arose in Gezer with the Philistines; then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck down Sippai, who was one of the descendants of the giants, and they were subdued."
This verse describes Sippai as a Philistine, explicitly identified as "one of the descendants of the giants" (יִלְדֵי הָרָפָה, "children of Rapha"). He is defeated by Sibbecai, one of David's mighty men, during a conflict with the Philistines. This account is part of a series of narratives in 1 Chronicles 20 detailing David's victories over Philistine giants, paralleling similar accounts in 2 Samuel 21.
It is crucial to note the parallel passage in [[2 Samuel 21:18]], which reads: "After this it came about that there was war again with the Philistines at Gob; then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck down Saph, who was among the descendants of the giant." Here, the name is given as Saph (`{{H5592}}`), which is identical to the root word for "basin" or "threshold." This discrepancy (Sippai in Chronicles vs. Saph in Samuel) is often understood as either:
1. A textual variant, with both names referring to the same individual.
2. "Saph" being a shortened form or a descriptive epithet (e.g., "the Basin-man" or "the Threshold-man," implying his immense size or role as a formidable barrier) for the Philistine giant, while "Sippai" is the more formal name.
Regardless, the context firmly establishes Sippai/Saph as a formidable Philistine giant, whose defeat marks a significant victory for Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to Çippay (`{{H5598}}`) is its root, סַף (çaph, `{{H5592}}`). This noun carries meanings such as:
* **Basin/Bowl/Cup**: Referring to a vessel, often for liquids or blood (e.g., [[Exodus 12:22]], [[Zechariah 12:2]]). This could metaphorically suggest Sippai's large, perhaps "basin-like" physical stature.
* **Threshold/Doorway**: Referring to the entrance or barrier (e.g., [[1 Kings 14:17]], [[Isaiah 6:4]]). This meaning might imply Sippai's role as a formidable "threshold" or obstacle to Israel's security, given his status as a giant.
Beyond its etymological root, Çippay is conceptually related to other Philistine giants mentioned in the same biblical narrative, such as:
* Goliath (`{{H1555}}`), famously defeated by David ([[1 Samuel 17]]).
* Lahmi (`{{H3899}}`), the brother of Goliath, defeated by Elhanan ([[1 Chronicles 20:5]]).
* An unnamed giant with six fingers and six toes, defeated by Jonathan, David's nephew ([[1 Chronicles 20:6-7]]).
These figures collectively represent the formidable enemies of Israel, embodying physical prowess and pagan opposition.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, the theological significance of Sippai (`{{H5598}}`) is primarily derived from his role within the broader narrative of God's people and their adversaries.
1. **Divine Empowerment in Warfare**: Sippai's defeat by Sibbecai, one of David's mighty men, underscores the theme of divine enablement in Israel's battles. These victories over seemingly invincible giants demonstrate that God fights for His people, often through human instruments, enabling them to overcome overwhelming odds. It is not merely human strength but God's power that secures triumph.
2. **Triumph Over Opposition**: The Philistines, and especially their giants, represented a persistent and formidable threat to Israel's existence and security. The repeated victories over these "descendants of the giants" symbolize God's ongoing triumph over forces that oppose His covenant people and His divine plan. Each giant's fall reaffirms God's faithfulness to protect and establish His kingdom.
3. **The Davidic Kingdom and Security**: These accounts of defeating giants serve to highlight the strength and divine favor upon David's reign. The eradication of these threats contributed to the security and stability of the nascent Israelite kingdom under David, preparing the way for the building of the temple and the establishment of God's presence among His people.
4. **Symbol of Spiritual Warfare**: On a broader theological level, the battles against these physical giants can be seen as an archetype for the spiritual warfare believers face against formidable spiritual forces. Just as God empowered David's men to overcome physical giants, He empowers believers to overcome spiritual adversaries through Christ.
### Summary
Çippay (`{{H5598}}`) is the Hebrew proper name for a Philistine giant, derived from the root סַף (çaph, `{{H5592}}`), which means "basin" or "threshold." He is mentioned once in [[1 Chronicles 20:4]], where he is defeated by Sibbecai the Hushathite, one of King David's mighty men. This account has a parallel in [[2 Samuel 21:18]] where the giant is named Saph. The theological significance of Sippai's defeat lies in its demonstration of God's power working through His chosen people to overcome seemingly insurmountable foes. This victory, alongside others over Philistine giants, affirms God's protection of Israel, the establishment of the Davidic kingdom, and serves as a historical testament to divine triumph over all opposition.
TRV