The Hebrew name Tsôwphar, represented by H6691, refers to Zophar, a friend of Job. The name, which can mean departing, appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. All occurrences are within the book of Job, where Zophar is identified as one of the three central figures who interact with Job during his period of intense suffering.
In the biblical narrative, H6691 is introduced when Zophar the Naamathite arrives with his companions, Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite, to visit Job. Their stated purpose was to "mourn with him and to comfort him" after hearing of his troubles Job 2:11. Zophar's active role is as a speaker in the dialogues with Job, with two of his speeches being introduced by the phrase, "Then answered Zophar the Naamathite, and said" (Job 11:1, Job 20:1). At the end of the book, he and his friends obey the LORD's command, concluding their part in the narrative Job 42:9.
Several related words provide the context for Zophar's identity and relationships:
- H347 ʼÎyôwb (hated (i.e. persecuted); Ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience; Job): Zophar is exclusively presented in relation to Job, the central figure whom he comes to comfort Job 2:11.
- H7453 rêaʻ (an associate (more or less close);... friend,...): This term establishes Zophar's relationship to Job, identifying him as one of his three "friends" Job 2:11.
- H5284 Naʻămâthîy (a Naamathite, or inhabitant of Naamah; Naamathite): This descriptor is always attached to Zophar's name, indicating his place of origin (Job 2:11, Job 11:1).
- H464 ʼĔlîyphaz (God of gold; Eliphaz, the name of one of Job's friends...): Zophar is always mentioned as part of the trio of friends, alongside Eliphaz (Job 2:11, Job 42:9).
- H1085 Bildad (of uncertain derivation; Bildad, one of Job's friends; Bildad): The third member of the group of friends who travels and speaks with Zophar (Job 2:11, Job 42:9).
The narrative weight of H6691 is tied to Zophar's role as a participant in the central conflict of the book of Job.
- Companion in Suffering: Zophar's story begins with an act of friendship, as he makes an appointment with two others to come and offer comfort to Job in his distress Job 2:11.
- Dialogue Participant: He is a key voice in the theological debates, contributing speeches that are directly addressed to Job (Job 11:1, Job 20:1).
- Obedience to God: In the final resolution, Zophar, along with Eliphaz and Bildad, demonstrates obedience to a direct command from the LORD, showing his ultimate submission to divine authority Job 42:9.
In summary, H6691 is the proper name of a specific individual, Zophar the Naamathite. He does not represent a broad concept but is a key character within the book of Job. His identity is inseparable from his two companions and his role as a friend who comes to comfort, but then engages in a dialogue with, the suffering Job. Ultimately, his story concludes with his compliance with the Lord's will.
TRV