כָּסִפְיָא (ka.siph.ya)
ka.siph.ya
Casiphia
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The proper noun Kasiphia refers to a specific location in ancient Babylonia, identified in Ezra 8:15 as the gathering point for the leaders and servants who would return with Zerubbabel. The name itself is an adjective meaning "silvery," likely describing a local feature such as a stream, stone, or district known for its color or mineral content.
Although the exact geographical site remains unknown to modern archaeologists, the text places it on the route between Babylon and Jerusalem. Its significance lies not in its size or prominence, but in its role as a logistical hub where the exiles assembled before beginning their long journey home. The name serves as a brief historical marker for a moment of preparation and community formation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read about the return from exile in Ezra, we encounter a small place called Kasiphia. It was not a major city or a center of power, but simply a spot along the road where people gathered. The name itself suggests something silver-colored, perhaps a local stream or stone that marked the way. For those returning to Jerusalem, this location became a crucial meeting point for leaders and servants who would help rebuild the temple.
This detail reminds us that God often works through ordinary moments of preparation. It was here that Ezra organized the community, ensuring they had the necessary ministers for God's house. We can see how gathering together for a common purpose strengthens our resolve. Even when the journey ahead seems long and uncertain, finding others who share your faith provides stability.
Today, we might not have a specific geographical marker like Kasiphia, but we still gather as a community. Whether in a local church or a small group, these meetings allow us to prepare for the work God has set before us. It is encouraging to know that our collective efforts are seen and valued.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in/ Casiphia2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּ/כָסִפְיָ֣א1×
- בְּ/כָסִפְיָ֖א1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 8:17
I sent them out to Iddo the chief at the place Casiphia; and I told them what they should tell Iddo and his brothers the temple servants at the place Casiphia, that they should bring to us ministers for the house of our God.
This verse highlights how Ezra used this location to recruit temple servants, showing its role in organizing the community for spiritual service.