צִפּוֹר
Tsippor, a Moabite
Definition
Tsippor is the name of a Moabite king, the father of Balak, who appears in the narrative of Balaam in Numbers 22–24. As a proper noun, it refers specifically to this historical figure, King Tsippor of Moab. His primary role in Scripture is as the father who sends his son, Balak, to summon the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites as they camp on the plains of Moab (Numbers 22:2-4). The name itself means 'bird,' identical to the common Hebrew noun, but in this context, it functions solely as a personal name.
Biblical Usage
The name Tsippor is used exclusively in the context of the Balaam narrative, found in the books of Numbers, Joshua, and Judges. It is used seven times, always identifying him as 'Tsippor, father of Balak.' The references serve to establish Balak's royal lineage and authority as he opposes Israel (e.g., Numbers 22:10, Joshua 24:9). Its usage is consistent and confined to this specific historical episode.
Etymology
The name Tsippor (צִפּוֹר) is identical to the common Hebrew noun H6833 (tsippôwr), meaning 'bird.' It is a primary noun with cognates in other Semitic languages. As a personal name, it follows a common ancient Near Eastern practice of using animal names, likely symbolizing desirable traits like freedom or vigilance.
Semantic Range
While the name Tsippor itself is not theologically loaded, his role is significant. As the father of Balak, he is part of the human opposition to God's covenant people, setting the stage for God's dramatic intervention. The story highlights God's sovereignty in turning intended curses into blessings (Numbers 23-24) and His faithful protection of Israel, a theme later recalled by Joshua (Joshua 24:9-10). Understanding this context enriches the reading of this pivotal narrative.
Using 'bird' (Tsippor) as a royal name was not unusual in the ancient Near East, where animal names often conveyed positive attributes or totemic significance. As a Moabite king, his status explains Balak's authority to summon a renowned prophet like Balaam and mobilize armies, reflecting standard monarchic structures of the time.
tsippôwr (H6833) — This is the identical common noun meaning 'bird,' from which the proper name is derived.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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