The Hebrew word ʻÊpher, represented by H6081, is a proper name meaning gazelle. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses. The name is used to identify three distinct individuals in the Old Testament: one descendant of Midian and two Israelites.
In the biblical narrative, H6081 is used exclusively to mark individuals within genealogical records. The name first appears in the lineage of Abraham's descendants through Keturah, identifying Epher as one of the sons of Midian Genesis 25:4. This same lineage is repeated in 1 Chronicles 1:33. The name is also used for two Israelites: one named Epher is listed as a son of Ezra within the tribe of Judah 1 Chronicles 4:17, and another Epher is identified as a head of a father's house in Manasseh, described as one of the "mighty men of valour" 1 Chronicles 5:24.
Several related words clarify the genealogical context of H6081:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is used in every instance where Epher is named to establish his identity as a son and place him within a specific family line, such as being among "the sons of Midian" Genesis 25:4 or "the sons of Ezra" 1 Chronicles 4:17.
- H5891 ʻÊyphâh (Ephah, the name of a son of Midian...): This name appears directly alongside Epher in the lists of Midian's sons (Genesis 25:4, 1 Chronicles 1:33), identifying Ephah as his brother and fellow descendant of Keturah.
While H6081 is a proper name and not a theological term, its usage highlights key biblical principles:
- Genealogical Record: The inclusion of Epher in three distinct family trees—the descendants of Midian, Judah, and Manasseh—underscores the biblical importance of preserving lineage and identity for future generations (Genesis 25:4, 1 Chronicles 4:17, 1 Chronicles 5:24).
- Leadership and Status: In the case of the Manassite, Epher is not just a name in a list but is identified as a "head of the house of their fathers" and a "mighty men of valour," signifying his position of leadership and respect within his tribe 1 Chronicles 5:24.
- Connection to Patriarchal History: As a son of Midian, the first Epher is recorded as a descendant of Abraham through Keturah, tying his lineage back to the patriarchal origins of the region Genesis 25:4.
In summary, ʻÊpher H6081 is a personal name found exclusively in genealogical contexts. It identifies three individuals: a son of Midian, a son of Ezra in the tribe of Judah, and a respected leader in the tribe of Manasseh. Though its appearances are brief, the name functions as a marker of identity, lineage, and, in one case, significant status within the historical records of ancient Israel and its neighbors.
TRV