### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çᵉphârâd**, represented by `{{H5614}}`, is a proper noun identifying a specific location. According to its definition, it is **Sepharad, a region of Assyria**. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its context highly specific. Its significance is tied to a prophecy of restoration for the exiled people of Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H5614}}` is found in a prophecy of future restoration for Israel. The text identifies **Sepharad** as the location of "the captivity of Jerusalem" [[Obadiah 1:20]]. In this passage, the prophet declares that these specific exiles, who are in **Sepharad**, will return and "possess the cities of the south" [[Obadiah 1:20]]. The name, therefore, serves as a geographical marker for a group of exiles included in God's promise of return and inheritance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only appearance help clarify the context of `{{H5614}}`:
* `{{H1546}}` **gâlûwth** (captivity): This term describes the state of the people in Sepharad. It refers to **captivity** or a collective group of **exiles** [[Obadiah 1:20]].
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): This specifies the origin of the exiles located in Sepharad. The verse explicitly mentions "the captivity of **Jerusalem**" [[Obadiah 1:20]].
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash** (possess): This word defines the promised future for the exiles from Sepharad, stating they will **to occupy** or **inherit** the cities of the south [[Obadiah 1:20]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (cities): This identifies what the returning exiles will possess. The promise is that they will take possession of the **cities** of the south [[Obadiah 1:20]].
* `{{H5045}}` **negeb** (south): This term specifies the region that the captives from Sepharad will inherit, namely the **south** or the **southern district of Judah** [[Obadiah 1:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5614}}` is derived entirely from its singular prophetic context:
* **Hope in Exile:** Sepharad is mentioned as a place of captivity, but its inclusion in the prophecy provides a message of hope. It signifies that even those exiled to a specific, named foreign region are not forgotten by God.
* **Promise of Restoration:** The reference is part of a divine promise that the "captivity of Jerusalem, which is in Sepharad," will return to their homeland and possess it once more [[Obadiah 1:20]]. This underscores the theme of God's faithfulness to restore His people.
* **Sovereignty over Nations:** By naming a foreign region like Sepharad, the text demonstrates God's awareness and sovereignty over the locations where His people are scattered, affirming that no place is beyond the reach of His redemptive plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5614}}` **Çᵉphârâd** is a place name that, despite its single appearance, plays a crucial role in a prophecy of restoration. It pinpoints the location of a specific group of exiles from Jerusalem and includes them in God's promise of a future return. Its significance is not in its geographical details but in its function as a symbol of hope and divine faithfulness to a scattered people.
TRV