### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çᵉthûwr**, represented by `{{H5639}}`, is defined as **hidden**. It appears as a proper name only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The name is used to identify a specific Israelite man, Sethur.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5639}}` is in the Old Testament, where the man Sethur is listed among representatives from the tribes of Israel. The verse provides a clear and concise identity for him: "Of the tribe of Asher, **Sethur** the son of Michael" [[Numbers 13:13]]. His entire biblical record is contained in this identification, placing him within a specific lineage and tribal group at a key moment in Israel's history.
### Related Words & Concepts
Sethur's identity is established through his connection to several key Hebrew terms found in his introductory verse:
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (a branch; figuratively, a tribe): This word is used to define Sethur's affiliation with one of the twelve tribes of Israel, a foundational component of his identity [[Numbers 13:13]]. A **tribe** could also be called by its component families [[Joshua 7:1]].
* `{{H836}}` **ʼÂshêr** (happy): This is the proper name of the tribe to which Sethur belonged. Asher was one of Jacob's sons, and his name was given because Leah declared, "Happy am I" [[Genesis 30:13]]. The tribe was associated with future blessing and prosperity [[Genesis 49:20]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This term establishes Sethur's direct familial lineage as the **son** of Michael [[Numbers 13:13]]. The word is central to understanding generational identity and covenant continuity throughout scripture [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H4317}}` **Mîykâʼêl** (who is like God?): This is the name of Sethur's father. The name Michael is also used for a great prince who stands for the children of God's people [[Daniel 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
While scripture provides no further details on the man Sethur, the context of his identification carries significance.
* **Identity in Community:** Sethur is not presented as an isolated individual but is defined entirely by his relationships: to his father, **Mîykâʼêl** `{{H4317}}`, and to his **tribe** `{{H4294}}`, **ʼÂshêr** `{{H836}}`. This highlights the biblical emphasis on corporate and familial identity within the covenant people of Israel.
* **A Name's Significance:** The name **Çᵉthûwr** `{{H5639}}` means **hidden**. This stands in contrast to his public role as a representative of his tribe. His identity is fixed within a lineage carrying names of great significance—**ʼÂshêr** (happy) and **Mîykâʼêl** (who is like God?).
* **Lineage of Blessing:** His tribal heritage is from Asher, a lineage specifically associated with being "blessed with children" and prosperity [[Deuteronomy 33:24]]. Sethur's presence in the list reaffirms the continuation of this tribe.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5639}}` **Çᵉthûwr** is a name that appears once, identifying a man by his family and tribe. Though the name itself means **hidden**, the biblical record firmly places Sethur within the visible and structured community of Israel. His mention in scripture serves as a small but clear example of how individual identity in the Old Testament was inextricably linked to the larger story of one's tribe and lineage within God's covenant plan.
TRV