### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çippay**, represented by `{{H5598}}`, refers to a specific Philistine individual. The name is derived from a root meaning "bason-like." It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse that records a historical conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5598}}` is in the narrative of Israel's wars against the Philistines. In [[1 Chronicles 20:4]], a battle arises at Gezer where Sibbechai the Hushathite **slew Sippai**. The text provides a crucial detail about **Sippai**, identifying him as one of "the children of the giant." The verse concludes by stating that as a result of this encounter, the Philistines "were subdued."
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5598}}` is defined by several key action words from its only appearance:
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This primitive root describes the act of striking, which can range from a light touch to a fatal blow. It is used to describe the slaying of **Sippai** [[1 Chronicles 20:4]], but also appears in prophetic contexts, such as God smiting the shepherd [[Zechariah 13:7]] or the earth [[Isaiah 11:4]].
* `{{H3665}}` **kânaʻ** (to bend the knee; hence, to humiliate, vanquish): This word describes the outcome of the battle. While it can refer to voluntary humbling before God [[2 Chronicles 7:14]], in the case of **Sippai**'s people, it signifies being vanquished and brought into subjection by force [[1 Chronicles 20:4]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (a battle; generally, war): This term sets the scene for **Sippai**'s appearance. It is used for human conflicts, but also for battles where God's sovereignty is paramount, as in the declaration, "for the battle is not yours, but God's" [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This word, used for "arose" in the phrase "there arose war," signifies the beginning of an event. It can also mean to endure or to take a firm position, such as when the people of Judah are told to "stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD" [[2 Chronicles 20:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5598}}` is tied entirely to the event in which the name appears.
* **Divine Sovereignty in War:** The account of **Sippai**'s death is part of a larger narrative demonstrating God's power to grant victory to His people. The conflict `{{H4421}}` results in the enemy being subdued `{{H3665}}`, reinforcing the theme that God fights for Israel [[Deuteronomy 20:1]].
* **Overcoming Formidable Enemies:** **Sippai** is explicitly noted as being "of the children of the giant" [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]. The defeat of such an imposing figure serves as a testament to God's power over any enemy, no matter how strong they appear.
* **The Act of Slaying:** The slaying `{{H5221}}` of **Sippai** is a specific act of judgment within a conflict. This same word, **nâkâh**, is used to describe God's own decisive actions, such as when He is "smitten of God, and afflicted" [[Isaiah 53:4]] or when He promises to "smite the earth with a curse" [[Malachi 4:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5598}}` **Çippay** is not a theological concept but the name of a historical figure: a Philistine giant. His significance comes from his role in a single biblical account. The narrative of his defeat illustrates God's faithfulness to Israel in times of **war** `{{H4421}}`, His power to **subdue** `{{H3665}}` formidable foes, and the finality of being **slain** `{{H5221}}` as an enemy of God's people.
TRV