or צוֹפַי; or צִיף; from צוּף; honey-comb; Tsuph or Tsophai or Tsiph, the name of an Israelite and of a place in Palestine; Zophai, Zuph.
Transliteration:Tsûwph
Pronunciation:tsoof
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6689}}` (צוּף, *Tsûwph*), while primarily functioning as a proper noun in its biblical occurrences, carries an underlying semantic weight derived from its root. The base definition provided includes "honey-comb," which points to the verb `{{H6687}}` (צוּף, *tsûwph*), meaning "to overflow," "to flow," or "to float." This foundational meaning suggests a sense of abundance, richness, or a state of being full and flowing. When applied to "honeycomb," it evokes an image of a structure brimming with sweet, flowing honey.
As a proper noun, `{{H6689}}` designates both a geographical location and individuals. The place is known as "Zuph" (or "Zophim" in plural form, as in Ramathaim-zophim), a region in the hill country of Ephraim. The individuals are named "Tsophai" or "Zuph," appearing in genealogical records. In these contexts, the name likely carried connotations related to the root meaning, perhaps signifying a fertile or abundant land, or individuals whose lives or lineage were characterized by prosperity, blessing, or a "flowing" quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H6689}}` in the Hebrew Bible are limited to proper nouns, designating both a place and individuals:
1. **A Place: Zuph / Zophim**
* [[1 Samuel 1:1]]: "There was a certain man from Ramathaim-zophim, from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah..." Here, "Ramathaim-zophim" (רָמָתַיִם צוֹפִים) refers to a town or region. While the specific form "Zophim" is plural, it is directly linked to the root `{{H6689}}`. The Septuagint renders it as "Ramathaim Sophim." This location is significant as the home of Elkanah, the father of the prophet Samuel. The name "Zuph" or "Zophim" in this context might suggest a fertile or prominent region, perhaps one known for its abundance or a significant "flow" of life or activity.
* [[1 Samuel 9:5]]: "When they came to the land of Zuph (אֶרֶץ צוּף), Saul said to his servant who was with him, 'Come, let us go back, lest my father stop worrying about the donkeys and become anxious about us.'" This verse explicitly mentions "the land of Zuph," indicating a specific geographical area that Saul and his servant traversed. Its appearance here further solidifies its identity as a recognized region.
2. **Individuals: Zophai / Zuph**
* [[1 Chronicles 6:26]] (Hebrew 6:11): "Elkanah his son, Amasai his son, Ahimoth his son, Elkanah his son, Zophai his son..." (וְצוֹפַי בְּנוֹ). Here, "Zophai" is listed as a descendant in the Levitical genealogy, tracing the lineage of the Kohathites.
* [[1 Chronicles 6:35]] (Hebrew 6:20): "Elkanah his son, Amasai his son, Ahimoth his son, Elkanah his son, Zophai his son..." This is a repetition of the same genealogical entry, confirming Zophai's place within this significant priestly line.
In both the geographical and personal contexts, the names likely carried an association with the root meaning of "flowing" or "overflowing," perhaps hinting at the richness of the land or the blessed nature of the individuals and their lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most crucial related word is the verbal root `{{H6687}}` (צוּף, *tsûwph*), which means "to overflow," "to flow," or "to float." This verb is the etymological basis for `{{H6689}}` and provides the semantic foundation for its various applications. The connection to "honeycomb" in the base definition of `{{H6689}}` directly stems from this root, as a honeycomb is a vessel for flowing honey.
Concepts related to `{{H6689}}` thus include:
* **Abundance and Fertility:** The idea of "overflowing" naturally connects to plentifulness, whether of resources, blessings, or life itself. This resonates with the biblical promise of a land "flowing with milk and honey."
* **Lineage and Continuity:** For the personal names, "flowing" might symbolize a continuous, blessed, or significant lineage, particularly in the context of Levitical ancestry.
* **Divine Provision:** The imagery of something overflowing can be linked to God's generous and abundant provision for His people.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6689}}` itself is primarily a proper noun, its underlying root meaning of "flowing" or "overflowing" imbues it with subtle theological resonance.
Firstly, the concept of **abundance and divine blessing** is central to biblical theology. God's covenant with Israel often promised a land of overflowing produce and prosperity, a land "flowing with milk and honey." The name "Zuph" for a region, especially one associated with the lineage of Samuel, could subtly point to God's providential care and the fertility He bestows.
Secondly, **the significance of names in biblical narrative** is profound. Names often encapsulated character, destiny, or a prophetic insight into an individual's life or lineage. "Zophai" as a Levite ancestor in a key genealogical line might signify a lineage characterized by divine favor or a "flowing" stream of service to God. The Levites were set apart for service, and a name suggesting "overflowing" could hint at their abundant dedication or the richness of their spiritual heritage.
Finally, the very idea of something "overflowing" speaks to God's **generosity and superabundance**. His blessings are not merely sufficient but often exceed expectation, "running over" ([[Psalm 23:5]]). Even in the naming of places and people, there can be a quiet testimony to the character of a God who provides richly and whose presence brings forth an abundance of life.
### Summary
`{{H6689}}` (צוּף, *Tsûwph*) functions in the Hebrew Bible primarily as a proper noun, designating both a geographical region ("Zuph" or "Zophim") and individuals ("Zophai"). Though its direct biblical usage does not refer to "honeycomb," this meaning is part of its base definition and points to its etymological root, `{{H6687}}` (צוּף), which means "to overflow," "to flow," or "to float." This underlying semantic range suggests concepts of abundance, richness, and continuous provision. In its biblical occurrences, the name "Zuph" for a land may imply its fertility or significance, while "Zophai" in a Levitical genealogy could hint at a blessed or abundant lineage. Ultimately, even in these proper nouns, there is a subtle echo of God's character as the source of all abundance and the one who blesses His people with overflowing goodness.
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