Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Zephi is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, who is also known as Israel. The genealogies in which Zephi is mentioned are significant for understanding the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau. Biblical References: Zephi is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 1:36. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following reference: "The sons of Eliphaz: Teman, Omar, Zephi, Gatam, Kenaz, Timna, and Amalek." This verse is part of a larger genealogical record that traces the descendants of Esau, highlighting the familial connections and tribal leaders that emerged from his lineage. Genealogical Context: Zephi is listed as one of the sons of Eliphaz, who was the firstborn son of Esau and his wife Adah. Eliphaz's descendants are significant as they form part of the Edomite tribes. The Edomites were a group of people who settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, known as Edom, and they often had interactions, both hostile and peaceful, with the Israelites. Tribal Significance: The mention of Zephi in the genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative. Each name in these records represents not only an individual but also a potential tribe or clan that would have played a role in the socio-political landscape of the ancient Near East. The descendants of Esau, including those of Zephi, were known for their distinct identity and often stood in contrast to the Israelites, descendants of Jacob. Historical and Theological Implications: The genealogies in which Zephi is mentioned serve to establish the historical and theological framework of the biblical narrative. They provide insight into the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as the unfolding of God's plan for the nations surrounding Israel. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, are often depicted in the Bible as both kin and adversaries to the Israelites, reflecting the complex relationship between the two groups. Conclusion: While Zephi himself is not a prominent figure in biblical accounts, his inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the broader narrative of Esau's descendants and their role in biblical history. The genealogies serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the peoples in the biblical world and the unfolding of God's purposes through diverse lineages. Smith's Bible Dictionary ZephiInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZEPHI; ZEPHOze'-fi, ze'-fo (tsephi, perhaps "gaze," or "gazing," in 1 Chronicles 1:36; tspho, the same meaning in Genesis 36:11, 15): A duke of Edom. Septuagint has Sophar, which Skinner (Genesis, 431) says may be the original of Job's kind friend. In Genesis 36:43 the Septuagint has Zaphoei (= tsepho, i.e. Zepho), for Iram. Skinner holds it probable that the two names, Zepho and Iram, were in the original text, thus making the number 12 (compare Lagarde, Septuagint-Stud., II, 10, 1. 178; 37, 1. 270; Nestle, Margin., 12). Lucian has Sophar, in Genesis 36:11, 15; Sepphoue, in 1 Chronicles 1:37, and Saphoin, in Genesis 36:43. Strong's Hebrew 6825. Tsepho -- perhaps "gazing," an Edomite... Zepho. Word Origin from tsaphah Definition perhaps "gazing," an Edomite NASB Word Usage Zephi (1), Zepho (2). Zephi, Zepho. Or Tsphiy ... /hebrew/6825.htm - 6k Thesaurus Zephi (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZEPHI; ZEPHO. ze'-fi, ze ... 43. David Francis Roberts. Multi-Version Concordance Zephi (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ... /z/zephi.htm - 7k Zepho (3 Occurrences) Zephathath (1 Occurrence) Kenaz (11 Occurrences) Omar (3 Occurrences) Gatam (3 Occurrences) Teman (12 Occurrences) Timna (6 Occurrences) Eli'phaz (7 Occurrences) Am'alek (21 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zephi (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 1:36 Subtopics Related Terms |
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