שָׂפַן (sa.phan)
sa.phan
to treasure
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb saphan appears only once in the Old Testament, in Deuteronomy 31:19. In this context, it means to store away or treasure up something carefully for safekeeping. The verse instructs Moses to write down this song and teach it to the Israelites so that it may serve as a witness against them, effectively preserving it within their communal memory.
Lexical sources note that the root carries the sense of covering or enclosing, which naturally extends to the idea of hiding or storing valuables. While some translations render this simply as "treasure," the underlying imagery suggests placing something in a secure location where it is protected from loss or damage. This specific usage highlights the value placed on the written word as a lasting record.
Because the occurrence is singular, the word’s theological weight rests entirely on its function in Deuteronomy 31:19. It underscores the importance of preservation and transmission, ensuring that the covenantal song remains accessible to future generations. The act of storing it away is not merely physical but serves as a deliberate measure to maintain spiritual accountability.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word saphan appears only once in the Old Testament, found within Deuteronomy 31:19. Here, it describes the careful act of storing away a sacred song for safekeeping. The imagery suggests placing something valuable into a secure location, protecting it from loss or damage so that it remains intact for future generations.
This concept invites us to consider how we treat spiritual truths in our own lives. Just as the Israelites were instructed to preserve this covenantal record, we are encouraged to treasure God's promises and teachings within our hearts. By holding these words close, we ensure they remain accessible during times of need, serving as a lasting witness to our faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ hidden [things] of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/שְׂפוּנֵ֖י1×