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.
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.
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.
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.
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