Lexical Summary Tsepho or Tsephi: Tsepho or Tsephi Original Word: צְפוֹ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Zephi, Zepho Or Tsphiy {tsef-ee'}; from tsaphah; observant; Tsepho or Tsephi, an Idumaean -- Zephi, Zepho. see HEBREW tsaphah NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom tsaphah Definition perhaps "gazing," an Edomite NASB Translation Zephi (1), Zepho (2). Brown-Driver-Briggs צְפוֺ, צְפִי proper name, masculine Σωφαρ: in Edom (? gaze, gazing); — צְפוֺ Genesis 36:11,15 + Genesis 36:43 (insert probably after עירם; compare LagSept. Stud. ii.10.1. 178; 37, 1. 270 NesMar.12) = צְפִי 1 Chronicles 1:36. Topical Lexicon Genealogical PlacementZepho is listed among the five sons of Eliphaz, the firstborn of Esau, in the foundational genealogies of both Genesis and 1 Chronicles. “The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz” (Genesis 36:11). The Chronicler preserves the same line, using the orthographic variant Zephi (1 Chronicles 1:36). Zepho therefore stands in the third generation from Abraham: Abraham → Isaac → Esau → Eliphaz → Zepho. Alongside his brothers—most of whom lend their names to Edomite clans—Zepho represents one branch of the early Edomite confederation. Historical Background The wider context of Genesis 36 describes the rapid growth of Esau’s household into a network of chiefs, “before any king reigned over the Israelites” (Genesis 36:31). Zepho’s appearance in the list of dukes (Genesis 36:15) shows that his descendants gained recognized leadership within Edom. Although Scripture does not record specific exploits, the placement of Zepho among the original chiefs highlights his family’s influence during the formative period when Edom was carving out territory south and east of Canaan. Geographical and Political Significance Edom’s terrain ranged from the Seir highlands to the Arabah. Clan names often became geographical markers; Teman and Kenaz, Zepho’s brothers, illustrate this pattern. While no biblical text explicitly identifies a region or settlement bearing Zepho’s name, later extrabiblical traditions (e.g., Jewish midrash and Josephus) connect him with maritime peoples and the western Mediterranean. Such traditions, though not canonical, underline the perceived vigor of these early Edomite leaders and hint at the mobility of their clans. In Scripture, Zepho’s inclusion among Edom’s chiefs signals that his lineage exerted political weight in the ancestral homeland that would, over centuries, stand in complex relationship with Israel. Theological Reflections 1. Covenant History: The prominence given to Esau’s descendants, including Zepho, testifies to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to Abraham that “kings will come from you” (Genesis 17:6). Though outside the chosen line, Edom’s chiefs illustrate the breadth of divine providence over all Abraham’s offspring. 2. Divine Sovereignty over Nations: The consistent record of Zepho’s clan in both Torah and Chronicles underscores that every nation’s history unfolds under God’s oversight. Zepho’s line flourished, yet subsequent prophetic books foresee judgment on Edom for its hostility toward Israel (e.g., Obadiah 10–14). The juxtaposition warns that national prominence, like Zepho’s, must yield to divine standards of justice. 3. Genealogies and Redemption History: By preserving Zepho’s name, Scripture weaves the tapestry of redemptive history in which Edom often serves as a foil to Israel. The exhaustive genealogies teach believers to trace God’s works through both the covenant line and the surrounding peoples. Lessons for Ministry and Faith • Value the Whole Counsel of Scripture: Names such as Zepho remind readers that even brief mentions contribute to the canonical storyline. Preachers and teachers can model diligence by exploring these seemingly minor figures, thereby reinforcing confidence in Scripture’s inspiration and coherence. • Recognize God’s Global Purposes: Zepho’s standing among Edomite chiefs illustrates that God’s covenant dealings extend beyond Israel. Modern ministry can draw from this example to foster a missions-minded awareness of God’s work among all nations. • Beware of Pride in Lineage or Position: Zepho’s clan gained early authority, yet Edom’s later downfall warns against elevating heritage above obedience. Christian leaders can apply this principle by measuring success not by pedigree or influence but by faithfulness to God’s Word. • Appreciate Generational Impact: Zepho’s mention in multiple genealogies signals that one generation’s decisions shape future destinies. Families and congregations today are encouraged to cultivate godly legacies that, unlike Edom’s tragic trajectory, glorify God across time. Summary Zepho, son of Eliphaz and grandson of Esau, emerges in Scripture as an early Edomite chief whose lineage contributed to the formation of a nation destined to interact—often contentiously—with Israel. Though the biblical narrative offers scant detail on his personal life, Zepho’s enduring placement in sacred genealogies magnifies themes of divine sovereignty, covenant faithfulness, and the moral accountability of all peoples before God. Forms and Transliterations צְפ֖וֹ צְפ֥וֹ צְפִ֣י צפו צפי ṣə·p̄î ṣə·p̄ōw ṣəp̄î ṣəp̄ōw tzeFi tzeFoLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Genesis 36:11 HEB: תֵּימָ֣ן אוֹמָ֔ר צְפ֥וֹ וְגַעְתָּ֖ם וּקְנַֽז׃ NAS: Omar, Zepho and Gatam KJV: Omar, Zepho, and Gatam, INT: were Teman Omar Zepho and Gatam and Kenaz Genesis 36:15 1 Chronicles 1:36 3 Occurrences |
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