צִפְיוֹן (tsiph.yon)
tsiph.yon
Ziphion
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Tiphson identifies a specific individual from the tribe of Gad, recorded as one of Jacob’s grandsons during the family’s descent into Egypt (Genesis 46:16). He is listed among the sons of Gad, making him a brother to figures like Haggi and Shuni. This genealogical record establishes his place within the larger clan structure that would later become the tribe of Gad in the wilderness.
In Numbers 26:15, the same figure appears under the variant spelling Zephon, identifying him as the progenitor of the family of the Zephonites. Lexical sources suggest the name may derive from a root meaning "lookout" or "gaze," though its primary function in Scripture is simply to mark lineage. The variation in spelling between Genesis and Numbers reflects common transliteration shifts in ancient texts rather than a change in identity.
While Tiphson does not play an active narrative role, his inclusion highlights the meticulous preservation of tribal identities during Israel’s formative years. These names serve as anchors for understanding the composition of the twelve tribes, ensuring that each family line remains traceable from the patriarchs to the settlement of the land.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names like Ziphion often feel distant in Scripture, yet they carry a quiet weight. He appears in Genesis 46:16 as one of Gad’s sons, part of the family that moved to Egypt. This list is not just data; it shows God keeping track of every person in His covenant people. Even those without dramatic stories are known and remembered.
His presence reminds us that our place in God’s story matters, whether we are in the spotlight or behind the scenes. The Bible preserves these names to show the continuity of faith across generations. We are part of a larger family, connected to those who came before and those who will follow. This belonging is a source of comfort and identity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Zephon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צִפְי֥וֹן1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 46:16
The sons of Gad: Ziphion, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli.
This verse lists Ziphion as a son of Gad, anchoring his identity within the specific clan structure that formed the tribe of Gad.