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.
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.
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.
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.
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