### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shâphîyr**, represented by `{{H8208}}`, literally means **beautiful**. It is used in scripture as the name of a place in Palestine, Saphir. This word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single occurrence highly specific in its application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8208}}` is in the prophetic book of Micah, where judgment is pronounced upon several towns. In [[Micah 1:11]], the "inhabitant" `{{H3427}}` of **Saphir** is commanded to "Pass ye away" `{{H5674}}`. This exile is marked by profound humiliation, as they are to go into captivity with their "shame naked" `{{H1322}}` `{{H6181}}`. The verse sets a scene of defeat and disgrace for this location, which is also mentioned alongside Zaanan `{{H6630}}` and Bethezel `{{H1018}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Saphir's judgment in [[Micah 1:11]] connects it to several key terms that describe its fate:
* `{{H1322}}` **bôsheth** (shame): This word is directly tied to the condition of Saphir's inhabitants, defining their disgrace as one of shame and confusion [[Micah 1:11]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (pass ye away): This verb, meaning to cross over or transition, describes the commanded exile of the people of Saphir, forcing them from their home [[Micah 1:11]].
* `{{H6181}}` **ʻeryâh** (naked): Paired with shame, this term for nudity emphasizes the total vulnerability and humiliation of the people, who are to be stripped bare [[Micah 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8208}}` is found in the powerful irony of its usage. Its meaning, "beautiful," is set against a prophecy of utter humiliation.
* **The Reversal of Fortune:** The name Saphir, or "beautiful," stands in stark contrast to its prophesied fate of "shame naked" `{{H1322}}` `{{H6181}}`. This serves as a potent reminder that worldly beauty or status provides no defense against divine judgment [[Micah 1:11]].
* **Corporate Judgment:** The prophecy is directed at the "inhabitant" `{{H3427}}` of Saphir, illustrating that sin and its consequences often affect an entire community. The judgment is collective, as the whole population is commanded to "pass ye away" `{{H5674}}`.
* **Tangible Prophetic Warning:** By naming specific places like Saphir, Zaanan `{{H6630}}`, and Bethezel `{{H1018}}`, the prophecy is made concrete. The fate of Saphir acts as a specific and undeniable warning of the broader judgment to come.
### Summary
In summary, **Shâphîyr** `{{H8208}}` is more than a place name; it is a symbol within a prophetic warning. While its literal meaning is "beautiful," its only biblical mention in [[Micah 1:11]] uses it to create a sharp contrast with the ugliness of judgment. The fate of Saphir—to be carried away in shame and nakedness—illustrates the biblical theme that sin leads to disgrace, overturning any external appearance of beauty or security.
TRV