from צָרַף; refinement; Tsarephath, a place in Palestine; Zarephath.
Transliteration:Tsârᵉphath
Pronunciation:tsaq-ref-ath'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H6886}}`, *Tsârᵉphath*, functions as a proper noun designating a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root `{{H6884}}` (*tsaraph*), which means "to refine," "to smelt," or "to purify," particularly in the context of metals. Therefore, the name "Zarephath" itself carries the semantic implication of a "smelting place" or a "place of refinement." While primarily a toponym, this etymological root hints at a deeper, symbolic association with processes of purification or testing, whether literal (e.g., metalworking) or metaphorical.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Zarephath (צָרְפַת) is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible in two distinct contexts, both crucial to its understanding.
Its most prominent appearance is in [[1 Kings 17:9-10]], where the prophet Elijah, facing a severe famine in Israel, is commanded by the Lord to go to Zarephath, explicitly identified as belonging to Sidon. There, he encounters a widow who is gathering sticks, preparing what she believes will be her last meal for herself and her son. Despite her extreme poverty and dire circumstances, she obeys Elijah's request to first make him a small cake. This act of faith and obedience is met with a miraculous and sustained provision: "The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah" [[1 Kings 17:16]]. This narrative highlights Zarephath as a stage for divine intervention, demonstrating God's power to sustain life even in the midst of widespread famine and national apostasy.
The second mention is in [[Obadiah 1:20]], where Zarephath is cited as the northernmost extent of the territory that the exiles of Israel, specifically those from Jerusalem, would possess upon their return. This reference confirms its geographical location on the Phoenician coast, north of Israel, consistent with its designation as belonging to Sidon. In this context, Zarephath signifies a boundary marker for the future restoration and expansion of Israelite territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H6884}}` (*tsaraph*), from which Zarephath is derived. This root is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe the process of refining precious metals like silver and gold (e.g., [[Psalm 12:6]], [[Proverbs 17:3]], [[Isaiah 48:10]]). Metaphorically, *tsaraph* is often applied to God's testing and purification of His people, refining them through trials as a goldsmith refines metal (e.g., [[Daniel 11:35]], [[Zechariah 13:9]], [[Malachi 3:3]]).
While the narrative in 1 Kings 17 does not explicitly state that Elijah or the widow underwent a "refining" process *because* of the place's name, the events that unfold there certainly involve profound tests of faith, dependence, and obedience. The widow's faith is tested and purified, leading to a miraculous outcome. Elijah's own reliance on God is absolute.
Other related concepts include divine provision, the power of prophetic utterance, faith in the face of scarcity, and the unexpected inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.
### Theological Significance
Zarephath holds significant theological weight, primarily through the narrative in 1 Kings 17.
**Divine Sovereignty and Provision:** The account underscores God's absolute sovereignty, not only over the land of Israel but also over Gentile territories. He commands Elijah to a foreign city, demonstrating His ability to provide for His prophet in unforeseen ways, utilizing an unlikely agent—a poor, non-Israelite widow. This highlights God's limitless resources and His meticulous care for His servants.
**Faith in Adversity:** The widow of Zarephath stands as an enduring example of extraordinary faith. Despite facing imminent death from starvation, she obeys the prophet's word, trusting in God's promise conveyed through Elijah. Her act of radical obedience is met with sustained miraculous provision, illustrating that God honors and blesses those who exercise faith, even in the most dire circumstances.
**Inclusion of Gentiles:** The fact that God sends Elijah to a Gentile city and provides for him through a Gentile woman is highly significant. This event foreshadows the broader scope of God's redemptive plan, which extends beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace the nations. This theme is explicitly affirmed by Jesus Himself in [[Luke 4:26]], where He cites the widow of Zarephath as an example of God's grace extending beyond Israel's borders, much to the chagrin of His Nazareth audience.
**The Power of the Prophetic Word:** The events at Zarephath powerfully demonstrate the authority and efficacy of the word of the Lord spoken through His prophet. Elijah's pronouncements regarding the unfailing flour and oil, and later the raising of the widow's son, are direct manifestations of divine power, validating his prophetic office.
**Refinement through Trial:** Though not explicitly stated as the purpose of the location's name, the experiences at Zarephath serve as a crucible for both Elijah and the widow. Their faith is tested, purified, and strengthened through the trials of famine, dependence, and the personal tragedy of the son's death, ultimately leading to a deeper experience of God's faithfulness and power.
### Summary
Zarephath (`{{H6886}}`, *Tsârᵉphath*), a place name etymologically linked to "refinement" or "smelting," is a pivotal location in biblical history, primarily known from 1 Kings 17. Situated on the Phoenician coast, it serves as the setting for the miraculous encounter between the prophet Elijah and a Gentile widow during a severe famine. This narrative powerfully illustrates God's sovereign provision, the transformative power of faith in extreme adversity, and the miraculous sustenance granted to those who trust Him. The sending of Elijah to this non-Israelite city also prophetically highlights the future inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan, a truth later underscored by Jesus. While its name subtly suggests a process of purification, the events at Zarephath unequivocally describe a period of testing and strengthening of faith for both Elijah and the widow, establishing it as a place synonymous with divine faithfulness and extraordinary intervention.
TRV