צָפַר (tsa.phar)
tsa.phar
to depart
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb tsa.phar appears only once in the entire Old Testament, found in Judges 17:3. Its core sense is linked to morning activity, specifically the idea of going early or departing at dawn. However, the exact meaning remains a subject of scholarly debate because the context is so unique and sparse.
In this single instance, the text describes a mother instructing her son to either return or depart. Ancient translations struggled with this ambiguity, reflecting the uncertainty that modern lexicons also acknowledge. Some interpreters suggest it implies leaving early in the morning, while others see it as a general command to go away. The rarity of the word prevents a broader understanding of its typical usage patterns.
Because tsa.phar is so uncommon, it does not carry a wide range of theological nuance or comparative weight against other Hebrew verbs. It serves as a linguistic curiosity rather than a doctrinal cornerstone. Its presence in Judges highlights the textual challenges translators face when dealing with isolated vocabulary that lacks parallel usage elsewhere in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tsa.phar appears only once in the Old Testament, tucked into Judges 17:3. Its meaning centers on departure, often linked to leaving early or at dawn. While scholars debate whether it implies a specific time of day or just the act of going away, the core idea remains clear: moving from one place to another.
In our own lives, we face moments where we must leave behind what no longer serves us. Perhaps it is a habit, a relationship, or a mindset that keeps us stuck. This rare word reminds us that departure is not always negative; sometimes it is simply the next step in God’s plan for us.
When you feel called to move forward, take heart. Even if the path is unclear, God guides your steps. You do not need to understand every detail of the journey—only trust the One who holds your future.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he may go1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יִצְפֹּ֖ר1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 7:3
Now therefore proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, ‘Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart from Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained.
This verse uses a related concept of departure, where Gideon sends away those who are fearful, illustrating how leaving can be an act of obedience and preparation for what lies ahead.