### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Siphmôwth** `{{H8224}}` is the name for **Siphmoth**, a place in Palestine. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its mention highly specific. The name itself is a feminine plural, but it is used to identify a particular town or location within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H8224}}` occurs in the context of David distributing the spoils of war. After his victory over the Amalekites, David sent a portion of the plunder to the elders of various cities in Judah. **Siphmoth** is included in this list of recipients, indicating it was a location whose people were allied with or supportive of David before he became king. The verse lists it among other southern towns: "And to them which were in Aroer, and to them which were in **Siphmoth**, and to them which were in Eshtemoa" [[1 Samuel 30:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the same context, helping to establish its geographical location:
* `{{H6177}}` **ʻĂrôwʻêr**: Defined as **Aroer**, the name of three places in or near Palestine. It is mentioned immediately before **Siphmoth** in the list of cities that received spoils from David [[1 Samuel 30:28]].
* `{{H851}}` **ʼEshtᵉmôaʻ**: Defined as **Eshtemoa** or Eshtemoh, a place in Palestine. It is listed directly after **Siphmoth** [[1 Samuel 30:28]] and is elsewhere identified as one of the cities given to the sons of Aaron in the territory of Judah [[1 Chronicles 6:57]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H8224}}` is tied directly to its singular context in the life of David.
* **A Place of Allegiance:** The inclusion of **Siphmoth** in the list of beneficiaries of David's victory highlights it as a place that was loyal to him during his wanderings. Sending the spoils was an act of gratitude and a means of strengthening political bonds.
* **Southern Judah Connection:** Being listed with **Aroer** `{{H6177}}` and **Eshtemoa** `{{H851}}` places **Siphmoth** within a network of towns in the southern part of Judah. This context anchors it to a specific region and historical moment in the formation of David's kingdom.
### Summary
In summary, **Siphmoth** `{{H8224}}` is a geographical marker with a very precise role in the biblical text. Although mentioned only once, its appearance is significant, identifying it as one of the communities that shared in David's triumph over the Amalekites. Its importance is derived entirely from this single historical event, where it is remembered as a recipient of the spoils of war alongside its neighboring towns [[1 Samuel 30:28]].
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