The term "Zuphite" refers to a descendant or inhabitant of the region associated with Zuph, a figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. The Zuphites are linked to the lineage of Samuel, the prophet, and judge of Israel. The name Zuph is found in the context of the family line of Elkanah, Samuel's father, in the book of 1 Samuel.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Samuel 1:1 : "Now there was a man from Ramathaim-zophim in the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite." This verse introduces Elkanah, Samuel's father, and traces his lineage back to Zuph, indicating that the family hailed from the region associated with Zuph, known as Ramathaim-zophim.

2. 1 Chronicles 6:35-38 : This passage provides a genealogical record of the Levites, including the lineage of Samuel. It states, "The son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah, the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai, the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah." This genealogy confirms the connection of Zuph to the Levitical line and highlights the importance of this ancestry in the context of Israel's religious leadership.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The Zuphites are associated with the region of Ramathaim-zophim, located in the hill country of Ephraim. This area is significant as the birthplace and home of Samuel, one of the most prominent prophets and judges in Israel's history. The name "Ramathaim-zophim" suggests a connection to Zuph, possibly indicating that Zuph was an influential figure or that the area was named after him.

Theological Significance:

The Zuphite lineage is significant in the biblical narrative due to its connection to Samuel, who played a crucial role in the transition of Israel from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. Samuel's leadership, prophetic ministry, and anointing of the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David, underscore the importance of his heritage and the divine purpose fulfilled through his life.

The mention of Zuph and the Zuphites in the genealogies serves to emphasize the providential preparation and selection of individuals and families for specific roles in God's redemptive plan. The Zuphite lineage, therefore, is a testament to God's sovereign choice and the unfolding of His purposes through history.

Samuel the Boy Prophet
... THE OLD TESTAMENT SAMUEL THE BOY PROPHET. Elkanah, a Zuphite of the hill country
of Ephraim, lived at Ramah with his two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/samuel the boy prophet.htm

Zuphite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Zuphite (1 Occurrence). 1 Samuel 1:1 Now there was
a certain man of Ramathaim, a Zuphite of the hill-country ...
/z/zuphite.htm - 6k

Zuph (3 Occurrences)
... But Budde and Wellhausen take it to be an adjective, and so read tsuphi, in 1 Samuel
1:1 b: "Tohu a Zuphite, an Ephraimite." It should probably be read also in ...
/z/zuph.htm - 9k

Zur (9 Occurrences)

/z/zur.htm - 10k

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