### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsâlâph**, represented by `{{H6764}}`, is a personal name meaning **Zalaph**. It originates from an unused root with an unknown meaning. The name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, identifying a specific Israelite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6764}}` is in the book of Nehemiah, during the account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall. The text states that Hanun, identified as "the sixth son of **Zalaph**," participated in this crucial restoration work [[Nehemiah 3:30]]. Zalaph is mentioned only to identify the lineage of his son, Hanun, who was responsible for repairing "another piece" of the wall alongside Hananiah.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in the surrounding text provide context for Zalaph's only mention:
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (repaired): This root verb, meaning to "to fasten upon" or "fortify," describes the work undertaken by Zalaph's son. It signifies the physical and spiritual strengthening of Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:30]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is essential for identifying Zalaph, as he is only known through his relationship to "Hanun the sixth **son** of Zalaph" [[Nehemiah 3:30]]. It establishes the generational link in the work of restoration.
* `{{H2586}}` **Chânûwn** (Hanun): This is the proper name of Zalaph's son, meaning "favored." He is the one who actively carries out the repair of the wall, and his identity is tied to his father, Zalaph [[Nehemiah 3:30]].
### Theological Significance
While Zalaph is a minor figure, his inclusion in the biblical record carries significance:
* **Communal Restoration:** Zalaph's family, through his son Hanun, participated in the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem. This highlights the importance of every individual and family contributing to the restoration of God's community [[Nehemiah 3:30]].
* **Generational Legacy:** The text specifically notes Zalaph as the father of a worker on the wall. This pattern of naming sons by their fathers underscores the theme of generational responsibility and the legacy passed down within the community of faith.
* **Recorded Contribution:** The detailed lists in Nehemiah, which include figures like Zalaph, demonstrate that God sees and records the contribution of each person, no matter how small their role may seem in the larger narrative.
### Summary
In summary, **Tsâlâph** `{{H6764}}` is the name of an Israelite, Zalaph, mentioned once in scripture. His identity is preserved through his son, Hanun, who helped **repair** the wall of Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:30]]. Although he is not a central character, his name's inclusion in the biblical account serves as a testament to the value of individual and family contributions to the work of God and the theme of national restoration.
TRV