or צְפִי; from צָפָה; observant; Tsepho or Tsephi, an Idumaean; Zephi, Zepho.
Transliteration:Tsᵉphôw
Pronunciation:tsef-o'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6825}}` (Tsᵉphô) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition identifies it as "Tsepho" or "Tsephi," an Idumaean chieftain. The name is derived from the root `{{H6822}}` (tsaphah), which carries the primary meaning "to look out, watch, observe, spy." Therefore, the name Tsᵉphô inherently conveys the sense of "observant," "watcher," or "one who looks out." While the proper noun itself does not have a broad semantic range beyond identifying an individual, its etymological root imbues it with the concept of vigilance and attentiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H6825}}` appears in the biblical text in two primary passages, identifying the same individual.
In [[Genesis 36:11]], Tsepho is listed as one of the sons of Eliphaz, who was the firstborn son of Esau and Adah. This places Tsepho within the lineage of Esau, making him a grandson of Esau and a chieftain among the Edomites. The verse states: "The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz." This enumeration is part of a broader genealogical record detailing the descendants of Esau and the chieftains of Edom, highlighting the establishment and prominence of the Edomite nation.
The name reappears in [[1 Chronicles 1:36]], where it is transliterated as "Zephi" (צְפִי). This variation in spelling (Tsᵉphô vs. Tsᵉphî) is a common orthographic phenomenon in Hebrew and refers to the identical person. The verse states: "The sons of Eliphaz: Teman, Omar, Zephi, Gatam, Kenaz, Timna, and Amalek." This account, found within the extensive genealogies of Chronicles, serves to confirm and preserve the historical lineage, emphasizing the continuity of the patriarchal records. In both contexts, Tsepho is merely listed as an ancestor, with no further narrative or descriptive information provided about his character or actions. His significance lies solely in his position within the Edomite tribal structure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H6825}}` is its root, `{{H6822}}` (tsaphah). This verb is rich in meaning and frequently used throughout the Old Testament. It denotes:
* **Physical Observation:** As in a watchman on a city wall "watching" for approaching danger ([[2 Samuel 18:24]], [[Isaiah 21:8]]).
* **Spiritual Vigilance:** Prophets are often described as "watchmen" (tsopheh) for the Lord, tasked with observing divine revelation and warning the people ([[Ezekiel 3:17]], [[Habakkuk 2:1]]).
* **Divine Observation:** God Himself is depicted as "watching" over His creation or His people, sometimes for judgment, other times for protection ([[Psalm 33:13-15]], [[Jeremiah 1:12]]).
The concept of "watching" or "observing" also connects to other Hebrew words related to sight, foresight, and attention, such as `{{H7200}}` (ra'ah, "to see") and `{{H7919}}` (sakal, "to be prudent, to observe intelligently"). While Tsepho's name reflects this root, his personal narrative does not elaborate on this quality in his life.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun identifying an individual within an Edomite lineage, the direct theological significance of `{{H6825}}` (Tsepho) is limited. However, the etymological root from which the name derives, `{{H6822}}` (tsaphah, "to watch, observe"), carries profound theological weight.
The concept of "watching" is central to understanding God's nature and humanity's responsibility. God is portrayed as the ultimate "Watcher," whose eyes behold all the children of man ([[Psalm 33:13]]). This divine observation speaks to His omniscience, omnipresence, and His active engagement with creation, whether for judgment or for providential care.
For humanity, the call to "watch" or be "observant" is a recurring biblical theme. Prophets are designated as "watchmen" for Israel, responsible for discerning God's word and warning His people of impending danger or judgment ([[Ezekiel 3:17]]). Believers are exhorted to be vigilant, watchful, and sober-minded in anticipation of the Lord's return and in the face of spiritual adversaries ([[1 Peter 5:8]], [[Matthew 24:42]]).
Thus, while Tsepho himself is an Edomite chieftain whose life is not detailed, his name serves as a subtle reminder of the significant biblical concept of observation—both divine and human—and the spiritual implications of attentiveness and vigilance.
### Summary
`{{H6825}}` (Tsᵉphô) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name that signifies "observant" or "watcher," derived from the root `{{H6822}}` (tsaphah, "to look out, watch"). This name identifies Tsepho (also called Zephi), a grandson of Esau and a chieftain among the Edomites, as listed in the genealogies of [[Genesis 36:11]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:36]]. While the biblical text provides no narrative details about Tsepho's life or character, the meaning of his name connects him to the broader biblical themes of observation, vigilance, and attentiveness. These themes are profoundly significant in describing God's omnipresent watchfulness over creation and humanity's call to spiritual alertness and prophetic discernment.
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