The Sephar'vites are a people mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Assyrian resettlement policies during the reign of King Sargon II. They are referenced in 2 Kings 17:24, which states: "Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns."

Historical Context

The Sephar'vites were among the various groups relocated by the Assyrian Empire after the conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 B.C. This resettlement was part of a broader Assyrian strategy to prevent rebellion by mixing conquered peoples and diluting their national identities. The Sephar'vites, along with other groups, were settled in the region of Samaria, which had been the heartland of the Northern Kingdom.

Religious Practices

The Sephar'vites are noted for their distinct religious practices, which included the worship of their own deities. In 2 Kings 17:31, it is recorded: "The Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children in the fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim." This passage highlights the syncretistic and idolatrous practices that were introduced into the land of Israel by these foreign settlers. The worship of Adrammelech and Anammelech, which involved child sacrifice, was particularly abhorrent to the Israelites and stood in stark contrast to the worship of Yahweh.

Geographical Identification

The exact geographical location of Sepharvaim, from which the Sephar'vites originated, is not definitively known. Some scholars suggest it may have been located in Mesopotamia, possibly near the city of Sippar on the Euphrates River. The name "Sepharvaim" itself is thought to mean "the two Sippars," referring to the twin cities of Sippar-Yahrurum and Sippar-Amnanum. However, this identification remains speculative.

Cultural Influence

The introduction of the Sephar'vites and other foreign peoples into Samaria had a lasting impact on the cultural and religious landscape of the region. The intermingling of these groups with the remaining Israelite population contributed to the development of the distinct Samaritan identity, which was characterized by a blend of Israelite and foreign elements. This syncretism was a source of tension between the Samaritans and the Jews of the Southern Kingdom, as seen in later biblical narratives.

Biblical Significance

The account of the Sephar'vites in the Bible serves as a reminder of the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God. The Assyrian conquest and subsequent resettlement were seen as divine judgment for the Israelites' idolatry and failure to uphold the covenant with Yahweh. The presence of the Sephar'vites and their idolatrous practices in the land underscored the spiritual decline that had led to Israel's downfall.

In summary, the Sephar'vites are a testament to the historical and theological themes of exile, judgment, and the challenges of maintaining faithfulness to God amidst foreign influences. Their account is a part of the larger narrative of Israel's relationship with God and the unfolding of His redemptive plan throughout history.Sephar'vites (1 Occurrence)

2 Kings 17:31
and the Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in the fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.
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Sephar'vites (1 Occurrence)
Sephar'vites. Sepharvites, Sephar'vites. Sepher . Multi-Version Concordance
Sephar'vites (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 17:31 and the Avvites ...
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Sepher (4 Occurrences)

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Sepharvites (1 Occurrence)

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