The Hebrew word Tsᵉlelpôwnîy, represented by H6753, is a proper name for an Israelitess. Its base definition is "shade-facing" and it appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. The biblical text includes the article, rendering the name as Hazelelponi.
The single appearance of H6753 occurs within a genealogical listing in the book of 1 Chronicles. In this context, Hazelelponi is explicitly identified by her relationship to her male siblings. The verse states, "and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi" 1 Chronicles 4:3, establishing her as the sister of Jezreel, Ishma, and Idbash, and as a descendant of the "father of Etam."
Several related words from its sole context help to define Hazelelponi's identity and place within the lineage:
- H269 'achowth (sister): This term defines her familial role. The definition is "a sister (used very widely (like brother), literally and figuratively)." Its use in 1 Chronicles 4:3 is what establishes her identity in relation to her brothers.
- H1 'ab (father): This word connects her to her patriarchal line. Defined as "father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application," it establishes her as being of the family of the "father of Etam" 1 Chronicles 4:3.
- H8034 shem (name): This word is used to introduce her personally. It means "an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality." The phrase "and the name of their sister" 1 Chronicles 4:3 singles her out for specific mention.
- H5862 ʻÊyṭâm (Etam): This is the place associated with her father. Defined as "hawk-ground; Etam, a place in Palestine," it provides a geographical anchor for her family's lineage 1 Chronicles 4:3.
While a rare name, the use of H6753 carries significance within the biblical record.
- Memorial of Individuality: The specific use of the word shem H8034, meaning "a mark or memorial of individuality," to introduce Hazelelponi ensures she is not just a forgotten part of a list but a recorded individual 1 Chronicles 4:3.
- Inclusion in Genealogy: Her inclusion by name in a patriarchal genealogy is significant. It affirms the role and identity of women within the historical and covenantal records of Israel.
- Familial Identity: Hazelelponi is identified primarily as a sister H269 and as the descendant of a father H1, grounding her identity firmly within the family unit, which is the foundational structure of ancient Israelite society 1 Chronicles 4:3.
In summary, Tsᵉlelpôwnîy H6753 is more than just an obscure name. Its single, carefully placed appearance in 1 Chronicles 4:3 serves as a permanent record of an Israelitess named Hazelelponi. It highlights the biblical practice of preserving individual identity, including that of women, within the larger genealogical framework of the nation.
TRV