### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsippôwr**, represented by `{{H6834}}`, is a proper name identifying **Zippor, a Moabite**. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. The name's primary function is not to describe an action or concept, but to establish the identity of a key figure's father within the narrative of Israel's encounter with Moab.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6834}}` is used exclusively to identify the father of Balak, the king of Moab. The name always appears in the specific construction "Balak the son of **Zippor**" [[Numbers 22:4]]. This connection is crucial, as Balak is presented as an adversary to Israel. He saw what Israel had done to the Amorites [[Numbers 22:2]] and, as the king of Moab, he "arose and warred against Israel" by sending for the prophet Balaam to curse them [[Joshua 24:9]]. Even Balaam, in his parables, addresses the king directly as the "son of **Zippor**" [[Numbers 23:18]]. Zippor's name, therefore, serves to anchor the Moabite king's identity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for Zippor's identity and his son's actions:
* `{{H1111}}` **Bâlâq** (waster; Balak, a Moabitish king; Balak): This is Zippor's son, the central antagonist in this narrative. As king, it is **Balak** who fears Israel and initiates the plan to curse them [[Numbers 22:10]].
* `{{H4124}}` **Môwʼâb** (from (her (the mother's)) father; Moab, an incestuous son of Lot; also his territory and descendants; Moab): This identifies the nationality of Zippor and the kingdom his son Balak ruled. The conflict is framed as an encounter between Israel and **Moab** [[Numbers 22:4]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king; king, royal): This is the title held by Zippor's son, Balak. His status as **king** gave him the authority to act on behalf of Moab and confront Israel [[Judges 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6834}}` is entirely derived from the actions of his son, providing a crucial piece of genealogical context.
* **Antagonistic Lineage:** Zippor is the father of the king who orchestrated a major threat against Israel. The repeated mention of "Balak the son of Zippor" firmly establishes the identity of the man who "arose and warred against Israel" [[Joshua 24:9]].
* **Historical Marker:** The name is part of a historical record, later recalled to remind Israel of past events. Jephthah references "Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab" to make a point about historical conflicts with Israel [[Judges 11:25]].
* **Narrative Anchor:** By naming Balak's father, the text provides a formal, patriarchal identifier that is consistently used by the narrator, by Balaam, and by Balak's own messengers, reinforcing the gravity of the official confrontation between the king of Moab and Israel [[Numbers 22:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6834}}` **Tsippôwr** is a proper noun whose importance is not in its own definition but in its unyielding connection to one of Israel's notable adversaries. The name serves as a vital genealogical and historical marker, ensuring that Balak's identity as the Moabite king who sought to curse Israel is always remembered within his specific familial line.
TRV