### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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