### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsôphîym**, represented by `{{H6839}}`, is a proper name for a location meaning **watchers**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Old Testament. The name is the plural of the active participle of `{{H6822}}` **tsâphâh**, defining it as a place associated with watching or observing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H6839}}` occurs in the book of Numbers. Here, an individual is brought to "the field of **Zophim**," which is situated on "the **top** of Pisgah." At this location, they proceeded to build seven altars and offer sacrifices [[Numbers 23:14]]. This context establishes **Zophim** as a high-altitude field chosen for both its strategic view and for ritualistic purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **Zophim**:
* `{{H6822}}` **tsâphâh**: This is the root verb from which **Tsôphîym** is derived. It means "to peer into the distance" or "to observe," directly linking the place name to the act of watching. It is also used for a "watchman" [[Ezekiel 3:17]].
* `{{H6449}}` **Piçgâh**: This is the name of the mountain where the field of Zophim was located. Scripture identifies **Pisgah** as a significant mountain east of the Jordan, often used as a high place for viewing the surrounding land [[Deuteronomy 34:1]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh**: This word, meaning "**head**" or "**top**," specifies the exact location of Zophim on the mountain. It being on "the **top** of Pisgah" emphasizes that it was chosen for its maximum elevation and visibility [[Numbers 23:14]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6839}}` is tied directly to its name and strategic placement in the narrative.
* **A Place of Observation:** The name **Tsôphîym** ("watchers") and its location on the **top** `{{H7218}}` of a mountain highlight its function as a vantage point. The root verb `{{H6822}}` implies a deliberate act of peering into the distance.
* **A Site for Sacred Acts:** The location was immediately established as a place for ritual. The act of **building** `{{H1129}}` altars and **offering** `{{H5927}}` sacrifices there indicates that the site's observational capacity was linked to a religious or prophetic purpose [[Numbers 23:14]].
* **Strategic Context:** The act of being **brought** `{{H3947}}` to this specific field suggests it was chosen deliberately. Its position on **Pisgah** `{{H6449}}`, a known lookout point [[Deuteronomy 3:27]], reinforces that the field was selected for what could be seen from it.
### Summary
In summary, **Tsôphîym** `{{H6839}}` is more than just a place name. Though mentioned only once, its meaning of "watchers" is central to its role in the Bible. It functions as a purpose-driven location, a high-altitude field on the top of Pisgah, specifically chosen as a platform for both observation and significant ritual action. The name itself explains its function within the biblical account.
TRV