Sephar-va'im is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Assyrian conquests and the resettlement policies of the Assyrian Empire. The name "Sephar-va'im" appears in the historical narrative concerning the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the subsequent Assyrian resettlement of conquered peoples.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 17:24 · "Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sephar-va'im and settled them in the cities of Samaria in place of the Israelites. They took possession of Samaria and lived in its cities."

2. 2 Kings 18:34 · "Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sephar-va'im, Hena, and Ivvah? Have they rescued Samaria from my hand?"

3. 2 Kings 19:13 · "Where are the kings of Hamath, Arpad, Sephar-va'im, Hena, and Ivvah?"

4. Isaiah 36:19 · "Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sephar-va'im? Have they delivered Samaria from my hand?"

5. Isaiah 37:13 · "Where are the kings of Hamath, Arpad, Sephar-va'im, Hena, and Ivvah?"

Historical and Geographical Context:

Sephar-va'im is often associated with the Assyrian Empire's policy of relocating conquered peoples to prevent rebellion and to assimilate them into the empire. The exact location of Sephar-va'im is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to have been a city or region within the Assyrian Empire, possibly located in Mesopotamia. Some scholars suggest it may have been near the city of Sippar, a significant city in ancient Babylonia, due to the similarity in names.

Religious and Cultural Significance:

The references to the gods of Sephar-va'im in the biblical texts highlight the polytheistic practices of the region's inhabitants. The Assyrian king's rhetorical questions about the gods of Sephar-va'im, alongside those of other conquered cities, underscore the perceived impotence of these deities in the face of Assyrian military might. This serves to contrast the power of the God of Israel with the gods of the nations, emphasizing the sovereignty and supremacy of the God of Israel.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Sephar-va'im and its gods in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the futility of idolatry and the ultimate authority of the God of Israel. The relocation of peoples, including those from Sephar-va'im, into the land of Israel is seen as part of God's judgment on the Northern Kingdom for their disobedience and idolatry. The narrative reinforces the biblical theme of God's control over nations and history, using even foreign empires to accomplish His purposes.

Conclusion:

Sephar-va'im, as mentioned in the Bible, provides insight into the historical and religious context of the ancient Near East during the time of the Assyrian Empire. Its inclusion in the biblical text serves to highlight the themes of divine judgment, the futility of idolatry, and the sovereignty of God over all nations.Sephar-va'im (2 Occurrences)

2 Kings 17:24
And the king of Assyria brought men from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Avva, and from Hamath and Sepharvaim, and placed them in the cities of Samaria instead of the children of Israel; and they possessed Samaria, and dwelt in the cities thereof.
(See RSV)

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.
(See RSV)

Sephar-va'im (2 Occurrences)
Sephar-va'im. Sepharva'im, Sephar-va'im. Sepharvim . Multi-Version
Concordance Sephar-va'im (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings 17:24 And the ...
/s/sephar-va'im.htm - 7k

Sepharva'im (4 Occurrences)
Sepharva'im. Sephar-vaim, Sepharva'im. Sephar-va'im . Multi-Version Concordance ...
Sephar-vaim, Sepharva'im. Sephar-va'im . Reference Bible.
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Sepharvim (1 Occurrence)

/s/sepharvim.htm - 6k

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