Ziphites
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ziphites in the Bible?
The Ziphites were a clan or tribe inhabiting the region of Ziph in the hill country of Judah, frequently mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as distinct political entities within the broader tribal structure of ancient Israel.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the Ziphites clarifies the complex tribal dynamics and local rivalries in the southern kingdom of Judah, particularly regarding the interactions between the Davidic monarchy and regional clans during the early monarchy period.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Ziphites reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ziphites in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ziphites 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
"Ziphites." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ziphites/