patronymically from צְפוֹן; a Tsephonite, or (collectively) descendants of Tsephon; Zephonites.
Transliteration:Tsᵉphôwnîy
Pronunciation:tsef-o-nee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy, `{{H6831}}`) is a gentilic or patronymic noun derived from the personal name צְפוֹן (Tsephon, `{{H6830}}`). As a patronymic, its core meaning denotes a descendant or a member of the family or clan associated with the individual Tsephon. Therefore, its semantic range is singularly focused on identifying "a Tsephonite" or, collectively, "the descendants of Tsephon." It functions as a proper noun, specifically naming a sub-group within one of the Israelite tribes, rather than conveying an abstract concept or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy, `{{H6831}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Numbers, specifically in the context of the second census taken in the wilderness. Its sole occurrence is found in:
* [[Numbers 26:15]]: "The sons of Gad according to their families: of Zephon, the family of the Zephonites; of Haggi, the family of the Haggites; of Shuni, the family of the Shunites..."
In this passage, צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy) identifies one of the primary clans within the tribe of Gad. The enumeration in [[Numbers 26]] is a detailed genealogical record, cataloging the families of Israel prior to their entry into the Promised Land. The purpose of this census was multifaceted: to ascertain the number of fighting men, to prepare for the division of the land according to tribal and familial units, and to underscore the fulfillment of God's promise to multiply Abraham's descendants. The mention of "the family of the Zephonites" within this context highlights their recognized status as a distinct lineage under the overarching tribe of Gad, affirming their place within the covenant community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the personal name צְפוֹן (Tsephon, `{{H6830}}`), from which צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy, `{{H6831}}`) is derived. Tsephon is identified as one of the sons of Gad in both [[Genesis 46:16]] (where some translations render it "Ziphion") and [[Numbers 26:15]]. This direct linguistic and familial link is crucial for understanding the identity of the Zephonites.
Broader related concepts include:
* **Patronymics/Gentilics:** The formation of names indicating descent or origin (e.g., Reubenites, Simeonites). This linguistic feature is pervasive in the biblical text for establishing identity and lineage.
* **Tribal Structure (שֵׁבֶט, `{{H7626}}`):** The organization of Israel into twelve tribes, each subdivided into clans (מִשְׁפָּחָה, `{{H4940}}`), is a foundational aspect of Israelite society and divine ordering.
* **Census (פְּקֻדָּה, `{{H6486}}`):** The act of numbering the people, often for military or land distribution purposes, which serves to affirm God's covenant faithfulness and the orderly nature of His people.
* **Lineage and Genealogy:** The meticulous recording of family lines, which serves to demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises and establish rights of inheritance and participation in the covenant.
### Theological Significance
While צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy, `{{H6831}}`) refers to a specific family, its theological significance is embedded within the larger narrative of God's covenant with Israel. The precise enumeration of families like the Zephonites in [[Numbers 26]] underscores several key theological themes:
1. **Divine Faithfulness:** The very existence and growth of these families, meticulously recorded, testify to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to Abraham concerning innumerable descendants (e.g., [[Genesis 15:5]], [[Genesis 22:17]]).
2. **Ordered Community:** God's people are not a chaotic mass but an ordered community, structured by divine design through tribes and families. This order reflects God's character and facilitates the proper functioning of His covenant people in worship, warfare, and land stewardship.
3. **Inheritance and Identity:** The detailed genealogies were crucial for establishing one's identity as an Israelite and determining one's right to a portion of the Promised Land. Each family, including the Zephonites, had a distinct place and inheritance within the divine economy.
4. **Inclusion in the Covenant:** The Zephonites, as part of the tribe of Gad, were full participants in the Mosaic Covenant, subject to its laws and recipients of its blessings and responsibilities. Their inclusion signifies the comprehensive nature of God's dealings with His chosen nation.
### Summary
The term צְפוֹנִי (Tsᵉphôwnîy, `{{H6831}}`) is a patronymic designating "the Zephonites," a specific family descending from Tsephon, a son of Gad. Its singular occurrence in [[Numbers 26:15]] places it within a detailed genealogical census, serving to enumerate the tribes of Israel before their entry into Canaan. Theologically, the mention of the Zephonites, alongside other Israelite families, highlights God's faithfulness in multiplying His people, His meticulous ordering of the covenant community, and the importance of lineage for identity and inheritance within the divine plan for Israel.
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