Biblical Reference:
Saph is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 21:18. He is identified as one of the descendants of the giants, known as the Rephaim, who were formidable opponents of the Israelites.

Scriptural Context:
In 2 Samuel 21:18 , the text states: "Some time later, there was another battle with the Philistines at Gob. At that time Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph, one of the descendants of Rapha." This passage is part of a larger narrative detailing the ongoing conflicts between the Israelites and the Philistines, highlighting the valor of David's warriors.

Historical and Cultural Background:
The Rephaim, to which Saph belonged, were a group of ancient people known for their great size and strength. They are often associated with the Anakim and other giant clans mentioned in the Old Testament. The Philistines, frequent adversaries of Israel, had among them warriors of notable size and prowess, which included Goliath, whom David famously defeated.

Theological Significance:
The defeat of Saph by Sibbecai the Hushathite is emblematic of God's continued support for Israel against formidable foes. It underscores the theme of divine empowerment, where God enables His chosen people to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. The narrative of Saph's defeat serves as a testament to the faithfulness and courage of David's men, who were instrumental in securing Israel's safety and prosperity.

Character Analysis:
Saph, though a minor character, represents the persistent threat posed by the Philistines and their allies. His mention in the biblical text highlights the ongoing struggle between the forces of Israel and their enemies. The victory over Saph by Sibbecai is a reflection of the bravery and skill of David's warriors, who were often outnumbered or faced with daunting adversaries.

Related Figures:
· Sibbecai the Hushathite: The warrior who defeated Saph. He is listed among David's mighty men and is noted for his bravery and loyalty.
· Rapha: The ancestor of Saph, often associated with the Rephaim, a group of giants mentioned in the Old Testament.
· David: The King of Israel during whose reign these battles occurred. His leadership and reliance on God's guidance were crucial in Israel's victories.

Cross-References:
· 1 Chronicles 20:4: This parallel account also mentions the battle at Gob and the defeat of Saph by Sibbecai.
· Deuteronomy 2:10-11: Provides background on the Rephaim and their connection to other giant clans.
· 1 Samuel 17: The account of David and Goliath, another giant from the Philistine ranks, illustrating the recurring theme of Israel's triumph over giants.

Conclusion:
The account of Saph, though brief, contributes to the larger narrative of Israel's history and God's providential care for His people. It serves as a reminder of the courage and faith required to face and overcome the challenges posed by formidable adversaries.Saph

rushes; sea-moss

Saph

(tall), one of the sons of the giant slain by Sibbechai the Hushathite. (2 Samuel 21:18) In (1 Chronicles 20:4) he is called SIPPAI. (B.C. about 1050.)

Extension, the son of the giant whom Sibbechai slew (2 Samuel 21:18); called also Sippai (1 Chronicles 20:4). SAPH

saf (caph; Codex Vaticanus Saph; Codex Alexandrinus Sephe): A Philistine, one of the four champions of the race of Rapha ("giant") who was slain by Sibbecai, one of David's heroes (2 Samuel 21:18 1 Chronicles 20:4). It is supposed by some that he was the son of the giant Goliath, but this is not proved. In 1 Chronicles 20:4, the same person is called "Sippai."

5593. Saph -- a Philistine
... 5592b, 5593. Saph. 5594 . a Philistine. Transliteration: Saph Phonetic
Spelling: (saf) Short Definition: Saph. Word Origin from ...
/hebrew/5593.htm - 6k

5592b. saph -- threshold, sill
... 5592a, 5592b. saph. 5593 . threshold, sill. Transliteration: saph Short Definition:
threshold. ... 5592a, 5592b. saph. 5593 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/5592b.htm - 5k

5592a. saph -- a basin, goblet
... 5592, 5592a. saph. 5592b . a basin, goblet. Transliteration: saph Short Definition:
basin. ... 5592, 5592a. saph. 5592b . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/5592a.htm - 5k

5598. Sippay -- a Philistine
... Definition: Sippai. Word Origin from the same as saph Definition a Philistine
(the same as NH5593) NASB Word Usage Sippai (1). Sippai. From ...
/hebrew/5598.htm - 6k

5605. saphaph -- to stand at or guard the threshold
... Word Origin denominative verb from saph Definition to stand at or guard the threshold
NASB Word Usage stand at the threshold (1). be a doorkeeper. ...
/hebrew/5605.htm - 6k

Saph (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SAPH. ... In 1 Chronicles 20:4, the same person is
called "Sippai.". Multi-Version Concordance Saph (1 Occurrence). ...
/s/saph.htm - 7k

Sibbecai (5 Occurrences)
... He slew the giant Saph in the battle of Gob (2 Samuel 21:18; RV, "Sibbechai").
Called also Mebunnai (23:27). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ...
/s/sibbecai.htm - 8k

Sap (6 Occurrences)

/s/sap.htm - 8k

Giant (8 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 21:18 It came to pass after this, that there was again war with the
Philistines at Gob: then Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph, who was of the sons ...
/g/giant.htm - 9k

Gob (3 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 21:18 It came to pass after this, that there was again war with the
Philistines at Gob: then Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph, who was of the sons ...
/g/gob.htm - 8k

Gath (44 Occurrences)
... The writer on "Gath and Its Worthies" in PEFS, 1886, 200-204, connects the name
Safi with that of the giant Saph (2 Samuel 21:18), regarding him as a native of ...
/g/gath.htm - 26k

Raphah (5 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 21:18 And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with
the Philistines, at Gob; then Sibbechai the Hushathite smote Saph, who was of ...
/r/raphah.htm - 8k

Rapha (10 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 21:18 And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with
the Philistines, at Gob; then Sibbechai the Hushathite smote Saph, who was of ...
/r/rapha.htm - 10k

Basin (37 Occurrences)
... (4.) A utensil (Hebrews saph) for holding the blood of the victims (Exodus
12:22); also a basin for domestic purposes (2 Samuel 17:28). ...
/b/basin.htm - 26k

Saphat

/s/saphat.htm - 7k

Was Goliath one of the Nephilim? | GotQuestions.org

Why did David choose five smooth stones before going to fight Goliath? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus