### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâphân**, represented by `{{H8227}}`, is used for the **coney**, a species of rockrabbit. Appearing 34 times across 28 verses, the term is derived from a root meaning to hide, reflecting the animal's nature. Beyond its zoological reference, `{{H8227}}` is also used as a significant proper name, Shaphan, identifying a key figure and his influential family in the history of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8227}}` appears in two distinct contexts. As an animal, the **coney** is mentioned in the dietary laws, where it is classified as **unclean** `{{H2931}}` because it chews the cud but does not have a divided hoof ([[Leviticus 11:5]], [[Deuteronomy 14:7]]). The wisdom literature portrays the **conies** `{{H8227}}` as a "feeble folk" that wisely "make they their houses in the rocks" for safety [[Proverbs 30:26]], a theme echoed in Psalms where the rocks are a refuge for them [[Psalms 104:18]]. As a person, Shaphan was a prominent **scribe** `{{H5608}}` during King Josiah's reign who was instrumental in receiving and reading the newly found "book of the law" to the king [[2 Kings 22:10]]. His sons and grandson also held important roles, influencing events surrounding the prophet Jeremiah and the Babylonian exile ([[Jeremiah 26:24]], [[Jeremiah 29:3]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H8227}}` is found:
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This term is used to legally define the **coney** `{{H8227}}` in the Mosaic law. The animal is declared **unclean** `{{H2931}}` and therefore forbidden as food for the Israelites [[Leviticus 11:5]].
* `{{H5608}}` **çâphar** (scribe): This word, which means to recount or enumerate, is the root for the title given to Shaphan. He is repeatedly identified as "Shaphan the **scribe**," linking his name to the official recording and preservation of texts [[2 Kings 22:10]].
* `{{H5612}}` **çêpher** (book, scroll): The narrative of Shaphan is inseparable from the discovery of the **book** `{{H5612}}` of the law. Hilkiah the priest gave the **book** to Shaphan, who then read it before the king, initiating a period of national reform [[2 Kings 22:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8227}}` is demonstrated through both of its applications.
* **Wisdom in Weakness:** The coney is presented as a model of practical wisdom. Though described as a "feeble folk," its ability to find security in the rocks serves as a metaphor for finding refuge and strength in a firm foundation [[Proverbs 30:26]].
* **The Principle of Distinction:** As an animal declared **unclean** `{{H2931}}`, the coney serves as a specific object lesson in God's command for Israel to distinguish between the holy and the profane, a central theme of the law [[Leviticus 11:5]].
* **Preservation of God's Word:** The man Shaphan and his family played a pivotal role in the stewardship of scripture. Shaphan himself delivered the lost Book of the Law to King Josiah [[2 Kings 22:10]], while his descendants were later entrusted with protecting the prophet Jeremiah and his writings ([[Jeremiah 26:24]], [[Jeremiah 36:10]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8227}}` carries a dual identity that enriches its biblical meaning. It represents both a humble animal, whose instinct for hiding provides a lesson in wisdom, and the name of an influential family of scribes who were central to the preservation of God's law during a critical period in Israel's history. The word thus connects themes of natural wisdom, divine law, and the faithful transmission of scripture.
TRV