### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shôwphâk**, represented by `{{H7780}}`, means **poured** and is the name of a specific Syrian individual. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. All occurrences refer to Shophach, the military commander of the Syrian army under Hadarezer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Shôwphâk** `{{H7780}}` is introduced as the **captain** `{{H8269}}` of the **host** `{{H6635}}` of the Syrians. After facing an initial defeat, the Syrians regrouped and **sent** `{{H7971}}` for reinforcements. Shophach was the commander who led this new army against Israel [[1 Chronicles 19:16]]. The subsequent battle resulted in a decisive Israelite victory where the **Syrians** `{{H758}}` **fled** `{{H5127}}` before them. In this conflict, David **slew** `{{H2026}}` tens of thousands of Syrian soldiers and personally **killed** `{{H4191}}` Shophach [[1 Chronicles 19:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the story of Shophach:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (captain): This title, meaning "a head person," defines Shophach's role as the commander of the Syrian military forces [[1 Chronicles 19:16]]. It is a term used for various leaders, from military officers to the "Prince of Peace" [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H758}}` **ʼĂrâm** (Syrian): This identifies Shophach's people, "Aram or Syria, and its inhabitants." The Syrians are presented as the adversaries of Israel in this specific account, a role they often occupy in the historical narratives [[1 Chronicles 19:16]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (killed): This root word, meaning "to die" or causatively "to kill," describes the ultimate fate of Shophach at the hands of David's forces [[1 Chronicles 19:18]]. It signifies the finality of his defeat and is the same word used to describe the consequence of eating from the forbidden tree [[Genesis 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of Shophach's brief appearance is found in the events surrounding him.
* **Leadership in Opposition:** Shophach embodies foreign leadership arrayed against God's people. As the **captain** `{{H8269}}` of the Syrian **host** `{{H6635}}`, he represents a direct and organized challenge to the kingdom of Israel [[1 Chronicles 19:16]].
* **Divine Sovereignty in Conflict:** The account of the battle illustrates God's authority over human armies. Despite the strength of the Syrian forces led by Shophach, they were routed, and their commander was **killed** `{{H4191}}`, demonstrating that victory belongs to the LORD [[1 Chronicles 19:18]].
* **Consequences for Enemies:** The story of Shophach serves as a historical example of the fate awaiting those who stand against God's anointed. He is introduced as a formidable commander and ends as a defeated enemy, showcasing the ultimate outcome of opposing God's purposes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7780}}` **Shôwphâk** is the proper name of a Syrian military captain. His narrative is not about the meaning of his name but about his role in a key battle against David. His story is a concise illustration of a foreign power's defeat, highlighting the theme of God's sovereignty and protection over Israel. Shophach's record as a **captain** `{{H8269}}` who was **killed** `{{H4191}}` in battle serves as a testament to the futility of resisting God's chosen king.
TRV