Ziphims
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ziphims in the Bible?
The Ziphims, or Ziphites, were inhabitants of the town of Ziph in the hill country of Judah who betrayed King David to King Saul during his flight, as recorded in the historical narratives of 1 Samuel and referenced in Psalm 54.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying the Ziphims as a specific local tribal group clarifies the intense political and personal betrayal David faced, highlighting how regional loyalties in the Judean highlands complicated his struggle against Saul and shaped the emotional depth of the psalms attributed to his time of distress.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Ziphims reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ziphims in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ziphims clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Ziphims." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ziphims/