from the same as עֲטָרוֹת and a name otherwise unused (being from the same as שָׂפַן) meaning hidden; crowns of Shophan; Atroth-Shophan, a place in Palestine; Atroth, Shophan (as if two places).
Transliteration:ʻAṭrôwth Shôwphân
Pronunciation:at-roth' sho-fawn'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term עַטְרוֹת שׁוֹפָן (ʻAṭrôwth Shôwphân, `{{H5855}}`) is a compound place name, literally translating to "Crowns of Shophan" or "Crowns of Hiding." It is derived from two distinct linguistic elements. The first part, עַטְרוֹת (ʻAṭrôwth), is the plural form of עֲטָרָה (ʻaṭārāh, `{{H5850}}`), meaning "crown," "diadem," or "garland." This root (related to `{{H5849}}`) generally signifies something that encircles or adorns the head, often symbolizing royalty, honor, or distinction. The second part, שׁוֹפָן (Shôwphân), is linked to the root שָׂפַן (sāphan, `{{H5641}}`), which means "to hide," "to conceal," or "to treasure up." Thus, the complete name suggests a location associated with "hidden crowns" or "crowns of concealment." As a proper noun designating a specific geographical location, its semantic range is primarily confined to its role as a place name within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The place name עַטְרוֹת שׁוֹפָן (ʻAṭrôwth Shôwphân, `{{H5855}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Numbers 32:35]]. This verse is part of the account detailing the settlement of the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh—east of the Jordan River.
The full verse reads: "And Atroth-Shophan, and Jaazer, and Jogbehah, and Beth-nimrah, and Beth-haran, fortified cities: and folds for sheep."
In this context, Atroth-Shophan is listed among the cities rebuilt and fortified by the tribe of Gad. The mention of "fortified cities" and "folds for sheep" underscores the practical concerns of these tribes: establishing secure dwelling places for their families and protected enclosures for their livestock in the newly acquired territory. The inclusion of Atroth-Shophan in this list signifies its importance as a strategic or settled location within the Gadite inheritance. While the precise location of Atroth-Shophan is not definitively known today, its presence in this enumeration highlights its role in the early Israelite settlement of Transjordan. The name itself, "Crowns of Hiding," might hint at a historical characteristic of the place, perhaps a location where valuable items were concealed, or a natural stronghold offering protection and refuge.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of עַטְרוֹת שׁוֹפָן connect it to broader biblical themes:
* **עֲטָרָה (`{{H5850}}`):** This noun, meaning "crown," is frequently used in the Bible to denote symbols of royalty (e.g., [[2 Samuel 12:30]]), honor (e.g., [[Proverbs 12:4]]), victory (e.g., [[Isaiah 28:5]]), and blessing (e.g., [[Proverbs 16:31]]). It can also refer to a garland or an ornamental wreath. The plural form עֲטָרוֹת (`{{H5851}}`) also designates other place names, such as Ataroth, suggesting locations that might have been fortified or prominent. The use of the plural "crowns" for Atroth-Shophan could imply multiple significant features or a place of great value.
* **שָׂפַן (`{{H5641}}`):** The verb "to hide" or "to conceal" carries various theological implications. It can refer to divine concealment or protection (e.g., [[Psalm 27:5]]), the hiding of wisdom or knowledge (e.g., [[Job 28:21]]), or the storing up of treasures (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 33:19]]). In the context of a place name, "hiding" might suggest a natural defense, a place of refuge, or a site where valuable resources or sacred objects were kept secret.
The combination of "crowns" and "hiding" in a place name is unique and intriguing. It suggests a location that might have been both distinguished ("crowned") and secure ("hidden"), perhaps serving as a sanctuary or a place of strategic importance that was well-protected or naturally secluded.
### Theological Significance
As a geographical place name, the direct theological significance of עַטְרוֹת שׁוֹפָן (ʻAṭrôwth Shôwphân, `{{H5855}}`) is primarily indirect, deriving from its inclusion in the divine narrative of Israel's land inheritance and settlement.
1. **Divine Provision and Order:** The listing of Atroth-Shophan among the cities allocated to the tribe of Gad in [[Numbers 32]] underscores God's meticulous care in providing specific territories for His people. The detailed enumeration of cities reflects a divine order and the fulfillment of promises, ensuring that each tribe received its designated portion of the land.
2. **Security and Dwelling:** The fact that Atroth-Shophan was a "fortified city" highlights the importance of security for the nascent Israelite nation. In a land often contested, the ability to establish and defend secure dwelling places was crucial for the survival and flourishing of the covenant people. The name "Crowns of Hiding" could metaphorically point to a divinely protected place, where the "crowns" (honor, prosperity, life) of its inhabitants were "hidden" or safeguarded by divine providence.
3. **Symbolic Resonance:** While speculative, the name "Crowns of Hiding" might evoke deeper symbolic meaning. It could represent a place where something precious was concealed, perhaps alluding to the hidden blessings or future glories reserved for those who dwell securely in the land God provides. In a broader sense, it might subtly echo the biblical concept of God's hidden wisdom or His protective presence that shields His people from harm, making even their physical dwelling places a testament to His care.
### Summary
עַטְרוֹת שׁוֹפָן (ʻAṭrôwth Shôwphân, `{{H5855}}`) is a unique Hebrew place name, literally meaning "Crowns of Hiding." It is composed of עַטְרוֹת (plural of "crown," `{{H5850}}`) and שׁוֹפָן (related to "to hide," `{{H5641}}`). This name appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Numbers 32:35]], where it is listed as one of the fortified cities rebuilt by the tribe of Gad in Transjordan. Its inclusion in this list emphasizes its role as a significant settlement within the Gadite inheritance. While its precise location remains uncertain, its name suggests a place that may have been both distinguished and secure, perhaps serving as a natural stronghold or a location where valuable assets were concealed. The theological significance of Atroth-Shophan lies primarily in its contribution to the narrative of God's faithful provision of land and secure dwelling places for His people, underscoring divine order and protection in the establishment of Israel.
TRV