אוּפָז (u.phaz)
u.phaz
Uphaz
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The noun Uphaz appears only twice in Scripture, both within the book of Daniel (Daniel 10:2 and 11:43). It functions as a proper noun identifying a specific geographic location known for its exceptional gold deposits. The term itself is etymologically linked to the idea of "desire" or "pleasure," suggesting that the place was prized for the quality of its precious metal.
Lexical sources note that the exact identity of this location remains unknown and debated among scholars. While some ancient translations offer variant readings, the consistent Hebrew usage points to a region famous enough to serve as a benchmark for wealth. In Daniel’s visions, mentioning Uphaz emphasizes the immense value and power associated with the kings and empires described.
Because the word occurs so rarely, it does not carry broad theological weight but serves a precise descriptive function. It highlights the tangible riches that drive political ambition in the prophetic narrative. The reference grounds the spiritual conflict in the material reality of ancient trade routes and mineral wealth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word Uphaz appears only twice in the Bible, both times highlighting gold of exceptional purity. In Jeremiah, it is mentioned alongside silver from Tarshish as material used by skilled craftsmen to make idols. This context reminds us that human effort, no matter how talented, cannot create true divinity. The finest metals remain merely metal when separated from the Creator.
In Daniel, a heavenly figure is described wearing a waistband of pure Uphaz gold. This vision contrasts sharply with the earthly idols of Jeremiah. It shows that true glory belongs to God alone, not to the wealth or power of empires. When we face uncertainty about the future, we can look past the temporary riches of this world.
Our hope is not found in precious stones or political stability, but in the eternal nature of God. The Bible uses these rare references to ground spiritual truths in real history. We are invited to trust in a God who holds all power and glory, far beyond any earthly treasure.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- from/ Uphaz1×
- Uphaz1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מֵֽ/אוּפָ֔ז1×
- אוּפָֽז\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 10:9
There is silver beaten into plates, which is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the engraver and of the hands of the goldsmith. Their clothing is blue and purple. They are all the work of skillful men.
This verse lists gold from Uphaz as raw material for idol-making, showing that even the finest wealth is powerless to save or represent God.
-
Daniel 10:5
I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man clothed in linen, whose waist was adorned with pure gold of Uphaz.
Here the heavenly man wears a belt of pure Uphaz gold, distinguishing divine glory from the earthly idols mentioned in Jeremiah.