### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çᵉpharvîy**, represented by `{{H5616}}`, is a patrial term identifying **a Sepharvite or inhabitant of Sepharvain**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its sole reference highly specific. This term is derived from the name of a location, Sepharvaim `{{H5617}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{H5616}}` occurs in a description of the foreign peoples who were resettled in Samaria. The verse states that "the **Sepharvites** burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim" [[2 Kings 17:31]]. This act is presented alongside the idolatrous practices of other groups, such as the Avites `{{H5757}}`, who also **made** `{{H6213}}` their own gods.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the **Sepharvites**:
* `{{H5617}}` **Çᵉpharvayim** (Sepharvites): The place of origin for the Sepharvites. It is identified as a city whose people and **gods** `{{H430}}` were brought into Samaria ([[2 Kings 17:24]], [[2 Kings 18:34]]).
* `{{H8313}}` **sâraph** (to be... on fire): This primitive root describes the specific action of the Sepharvites. It means to **burn** or kindle, as seen when they **burnt** their children `{{H1121}}` [[2 Kings 17:31]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word, central to family and lineage, is used here to identify the victims of the pagan ritual performed by the **Sepharvites** [[2 Kings 17:31]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (gods): While often referring to the supreme God, in this context it denotes the pagan deities Adrammelech and Anammelech, to whom the **Sepharvites** offered sacrifices [[2 Kings 17:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5616}}` is tied directly to its singular, stark context. It serves as a potent example of forbidden worship.
* **Idolatrous Abomination:** The primary theological point is the condemnation of pagan practices. The act of the **Sepharvites** burning their **children** `{{H1121}}` in **fire** `{{H784}}` is presented as a horrific form of idolatry [[2 Kings 17:31]]. This same practice is condemned elsewhere in scripture [[Jeremiah 19:5]].
* **Syncretism and Judgment:** The **Sepharvites** were among the peoples brought to Samaria to replace the exiled Israelites [[2 Kings 17:24]]. Their presence and practices illustrate the introduction of foreign worship that corrupted the land and stood in direct opposition to the laws of God.
* **The Nature of False Gods:** The narrative highlights the destructive demands of false **gods** `{{H430}}`. The deities of **Sepharvaim** `{{H5617}}` required the ultimate sacrifice from their followers, a stark contrast to the character of the God of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5616}}` **Çᵉpharvîy** is more than a simple demographic label. Its sole appearance in scripture permanently associates this people group with the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice by **fire** `{{H784}}` [[2 Kings 17:31]]. The term serves as a concise and powerful biblical illustration of the depth of pagan idolatry, the consequences of abandoning God's commands, and the corrupting influence of the nations resettled in Samaria.
TRV