### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsᵉphâthâh**, represented by `{{H6859}}`, identifies a specific location in Palestine known as **Zephathah**. The name is considered the same as Tsephath. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical record, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6859}}` is found in [[2 Chronicles 14:10]], where it pinpoints the location of a significant military event. In this passage, King **Asa**{H609} **went out**{H3318} **against**{H6440} an opposing army. The forces **set the battle**{H4421} **in array**{H6186} specifically "in the **valley**{H1516} of **Zephathah**{H6859} at **Mareshah**{H4762}." This highlights its role as a battlefield, a specific gorge or valley chosen for a strategic confrontation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Zephathah** is illuminated by several associated Hebrew words from its only biblical mention:
* `{{H1516}}` **gayʼ** (valley): This word, defined as a gorge with lofty sides, describes the specific topography of **Zephathah**. It specifies the encounter happened not on an open plain but in a more narrowly defined valley.
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (battle): This term for a battle or warfare defines the purpose of the gathering at **Zephathah**, marking it as the site of a military engagement [[2 Chronicles 14:10]].
* `{{H4762}}` **Marʼêshâh** (Mareshah): This is the name of another place in Palestine mentioned in the same breath as **Zephathah**, helping to geographically situate the valley [[2 Chronicles 14:10]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6859}}` itself is a geographical name, its significance is derived from the event for which it serves as a backdrop.
* **A Stage for Divine Power:** The valley of Zephathah becomes the setting where God's ability to save is demonstrated. The battle was preceded by King Asa’s prayer, where he proclaimed reliance on God against a great multitude [[2 Chronicles 14:11]].
* **Victory Through Faith, Not Might:** The location is tied to the principle that victory comes from the Lord. Asa's cry, "O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude," frames the ensuing battle as an act of faith [[2 Chronicles 14:11]].
* **A Testament to God's Help:** The events at Zephathah underscore the theme that God helps those with no power of their own against many, a core element of Asa's appeal to the LORD [[2 Chronicles 14:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6859}}` **Tsᵉphâthâh** is a specific place name, the "valley of Zephathah," mentioned just once in Scripture. Its importance is not in the name itself, but in its unchangeable association with the battle where King **Asa**{H609} trusted in God for victory. The location serves as a permanent geographical marker for a narrative that highlights divine intervention in response to faith, illustrating how even a minor location can be the stage for a profound theological lesson.
TRV