צְפִיר

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word tsᵉphîyr, represented by H6841, refers to a he-goat. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular usage occurs in the context of a significant national sacrifice.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H6841 is in Ezra 6:17, during the dedication of the house of God following the return of the Israelites from captivity. In this passage, a large number of animals are offered. Specifically, twelve he goats were sacrificed as a sin offering for all of Israel. The text states this was done "according to the number of the tribes of Israel," directly linking each animal to one of the twelve tribes.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related Aramaic words clarify the context of this specific offering:

• H2402 chaṭṭâʼâh (an offence, and the penalty or sacrifice forit): This term defines the purpose for which the he goats were offered, identifying them as a sin offering for the nation Ezra 6:17.
• H7625 shᵉbaṭ (a clan): This word provides the crucial representative framework, connecting the twelve animals to the twelve tribes of Israel Ezra 6:17.
• H2597 chănukkâʼ (consecration): This establishes the setting for the sacrifice, the dedication of God's house, a foundational event for the restored community of Israel Ezra 6:17.
• H5796 ʻêz (goat): This is the general term for goat, with H6841 being used to specify the male animal required for this particular sin offering Ezra 6:17.

Theological Significance

Despite its single use, the theological weight of H6841 is significant within its context.

• National Atonement: The he goats are explicitly designated as a "sin offering for all Israel," signifying a collective act of atonement required for the entire nation upon the rededication of the temple Ezra 6:17.
• Symbolic Representation: The offering of "twelve he goats" is not arbitrary. It is made "according to the number of the tribes of Israel," symbolizing the unity and collective responsibility of the whole nation before God Ezra 6:17.
• Consecration through Sacrifice: The use of a he-goat as a sin offering was essential for the dedication of the house of God, underscoring the principle that consecration and renewed worship require atonement for sin Ezra 6:17.

Summary

In summary, H6841 is a precise term whose importance far outweighs its frequency. Its solitary mention in Ezra 6:17 is pivotal, marking a moment of national renewal. It encapsulates the themes of collective atonement, the symbolic representation of all twelve tribes of Israel, and the necessity of sacrifice for the consecration of God's holy temple.