What does the name Zephaniah means?
hidden by GodZephaniah is a masculine name of Hebrew origin that means "hidden by God." This is a biblical name shared with minor prophet in the Hebrew Bible and its meaning is symbolic of God's protection.
What is Zephaniah known for?
Zephaniah, also spelled Sophonias, (flourished 7th century bc), Israelite prophet, said to be the author of one of the shorter Old Testament prophetical books, who proclaimed the approaching divine judgment. The first verse of the Book of Zephaniah makes him a contemporary of Josiah, king of Judah (reigned c.
What is the meaning of Zephaniah in Hebrew?
God has hiddenZephaniah is both a given name and surname. Name is Hebrew origin and it means "God has hidden".
What is the message of Zephaniah?
The dominant theme of the book is the “day of the Lord,” which the prophet sees approaching as a consequence of the sins of Judah. A remnant will be saved (the “humble and lowly”) through purification by judgment.
What does Zephaniah 3 17 teach?
Just this week in my devotional time I was reading Zephaniah 3:17, “The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”
How do you read Zephaniah?
0:295:09Overview: Zephaniah - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first section opens with the shocking reversal of Genesis 1 so God's good ordered. World isMoreThe first section opens with the shocking reversal of Genesis 1 so God's good ordered. World is going to descend back into disorder in darkness. And chaos becoming uninhabitable.
Is Zephaniah a female name?
The name Zephaniah is both a boy's name and a girl's name of Hebrew origin meaning "God has hidden".
Who did Zephaniah prophecy to?
The prophecies of Zephaniah seem to refer to the apostacies of Manasseh's reign ( 2 Kings 21). He predicts the down fall of the Assyrian empire but, unlike Isaiah, he does not anticipate the resurgence of peace and righteousness in Jerusalem.
Is Zephaniah a common name?
Zephaniah is SUPER uncommon; although it has seen some traction in recent years. This is owing to the general growing popularity of Hebrew Old Testament names (Noah, Ethan, Jacob, Elijah). Still, Zephaniah remains relatively rare and under the radar of most parents.
What is meant by the day of the Lord?
Definition of day of the Lord : a day inaugurating the eternal universal rule of God: a in the Old Testament : an eschatological day of ultimate judgment bringing final deliverance or doom. — called also day of Yahweh. b in the New Testament : the triumphant day of Christ's return to earth in glory.
What happens on the day of the Lord?
That day will be darkness, not light" (Amos 5:18 NIV). Because Israel had sinned, God would come in judgement on them. Thus, the day of the Lord is about God chastening his people, whether it be through the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem or a locust plague described in Joel 2:1–11.
How do you pronounce Zephaniah in the Bible?
0:130:35How to Pronounce Zephaniah? (CORRECTLY) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJa ja ja ja ja.MoreJa ja ja ja ja.
What does Zephaniah mean?
The name Zephaniah means Stored By (For) Yah or Yah Stores Up, and reminds of the words of Jesus: " Do not treasure up for you treasures on the earth, where moth and rust cause to vanish, and where thieves dig through and steal. But treasure up for you treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust cause to vanish, ...
What is the abbreviation for Zephaniah?
The name Zephaniah consists of two parts. The final bit is יה, the abbreviated form of the Name of the Lord: יהוה, ( YHWH ).
What does "shapan" mean in the Bible?
Verb שפן ( shapan) isn't used in the Bible but in cognate languages it means to hide. Noun שפן ( shapan) describes a kind of cud-chewing, rock-dwelling animal with no divided hoofs, commonly (rather oddly) interpreted as rock-badger or Coney (rabbit). — See the full Dictionary article —.
How many men are named Zephaniah?
There are four men named Zephaniah in the Bible: A son of Cushi, and author of the Book of Zephaniah (written around 630 BC). A musician in the days of David (1 Chronicles 6:36). A priest who was a contemporary of his famous name-sake and an acquaintance of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 21:1).
Who killed Zephaniah and Seraiah?
This Zephaniah was "second priest," and served with high priest Seraiah. Both men were killed by Nebuchadnezzar in Riblah on the eve of the deportation (2 Kings 25:18).
What does "sippiya" mean?
In cognate languages this verb also means to hope. Noun צפיה ( sippiya) means lookout post and noun מצפה ( mispeh) means watchtower. Noun צפוי ( sippuy) means plating, noun צפית ( sapit) means rug or carpet, and noun צפת ( sepet) refers to the plated capital of a pillar.
What is the meaning of Zephaniah?
A 17th century icon of Zephaniah. Zephaniah ( / ˌzɛfəˈnaɪ.ə /, Hebrew: צְפַנְיָה, Modern: Tsfanya, Tiberian: Ṣəp̄anyāh, "Concealed of/is YHWH ") is the name of several people in the Hebrew Bible and Jewish Tanakh; the most prominent one being the prophet who prophesied in the days ...
Who is the prophet Zephaniah?
The prophet Zephaniah. The best known Biblical figure bearing the name Zephaniah is the son of Cushi, and great-great grandson of King Hezekiah, ninth in the literary order of the Twelve Minor Prophets . He prophesied in the days of Josiah, ruler of the Kingdom of Judah (640–609 BCE), but before Josiah's reform in 621 BCE, ...
What is the book of Zephaniah?
The Book of Zephaniah contains the fundamental ideas of the preaching of Zephaniah. The scheme of the book in its present form is as follows: Zephaniah 1:2-2:3. Warnings about the "day of the Lord", a Dies irae, dies illa of the Old Testament.
What was the significance of the age of Zephaniah?
The age of Zephaniah was also a key historical period, because the lands of Western Asia were overrun by foreigners due to the migration of the Scythians in the last decades of the seventh century BC, and because Jerusalem was only a few decades before its downfall in 586 BC.
What does Zephaniah 3:9-20 mean?
Zephaniah 3:9-20. With a prophetic glance at the Kingdom of God of the future, in which all the world unites and turns to God, the prosperity of the Messianic Kingdom will be enjoyed . Zephaniah 3:9-20.
Biblical Names Meaning
In Biblical Names the meaning of the name Zephaniah is: The Lord is my secret.
Hebrew Baby Names Meaning
In Hebrew Baby Names the meaning of the name Zephaniah is: The Lord has concealed; the Lord has protected; treasured by God.
Why is Zephaniah so important?
In this case, it refers primarily to God’s impending time of judgment on the nation of Judah. Zephaniah saw in the day of the Lord the destruction of his country , his neighbors, and eventually the whole earth ( Zephaniah 1:2, 4; 2:10 ). Zephaniah wrote that the day of the Lord was near (1:14), that it would be a time of wrath (1:15), that it would come as judgment on sin (1:17), and that ultimately it would result in the blessing of God’s presence among His people (3:17).
What did Zephaniah see in the day of the Lord?
Zephaniah saw in the day of the Lord the destruction of his country, his neighbors, and eventually the whole earth ( Zephaniah 1:2, 4; 2:10 ). Zephaniah wrote that the day of the Lord was near (1:14), that it would be a time of wrath (1:15), that it would come as judgment on sin (1:17), and that ultimately it would result in the blessing ...
Who was Zephaniah's primary target for God's message of judgment?
Zephaniah’s primary target for God’s message of judgment, the nation of Judah, had fallen into grievous sin under the reign of their king, Manasseh. Zephaniah’s prophecy shouted out for godliness and purity in a nation sinful to its core.
When did Zephaniah predict the fall of Nineveh?
First, in 2:13 the prophet predicted the fall of Nineveh, an event which occurred in 612 BC. Further, Zephaniah made frequent quotations from the Law (for example, compare 1:13 to Deuteronomy 28:30, 39 ), a document that remained lost in Judah for much of Josiah’s reign.
What does the name Zephaniah mean?
The name Zephaniah means “the Lord hides” or “the Lord has hidden.” It was rather common for parents to give their child a name that somehow became a prophetic piece of their life (yes, this is the fun part in reading the Biblical genealogies - there are always some meanings to the names and purpose for why they are included in Scripture.) Bible scholars believe perhaps that God hid Zephaniah during the bloodthirsty reign of Manasseh.
What is the first word of Zephaniah?
Zephaniah’s Message. The very first words of the book are: “This is the word of the Lord that came to Zephaniah…”. ( Zephaniah 1:1) The first thing Zephaniah wants his readers to know is that these aren’t his words, they are the Lord’s. Certainly, if God had chosen me to deliver such a message, I would want to shout that out first.
What is the theme of Zephaniah?
The book isn’t exactly like curling up with a comforting Psalm or an inspirational Parable of Jesus. But still the themes of comfort, hope, and faith are present if we expectantly and faithfully linger in its pages.
What was Zephaniah's culture?
At some point, after generations of sending prophets to turn people away from harming themselves and one another, He ended the cycle. This is Zephaniah’s culture. One of great darkness. One of violence and pain. God never brings destruction to a place or a people that haven’t already destroyed themselves.
What would happen if Zephaniah's name wasn't a prophecy?
If Zephaniah’s name wasn’t a personal prophecy, it was certainly tied to the message the Lord would bring through his servant. Despite the sifting judgement that would come to the people of Israel, the righteous ones would be hidden and guarded from the destruction to come. Photo Credit: Unsplash/Donald Teel.
Was Zephaniah a contemporary of Josiah?
Zephaniah was a contemporary of King Josiah. So the heart that overflowed with concern over the Lord’s coming judgement was also witness to a most beautiful revival in Judah. While there was an oasis of revival during his adulthood, as a child he would have been witness to human sacrifices and occult practices as commonplace. Despite the stirring revival that occurred under King Josiah, the darkness of pagan practices surrounded them on all sides of their tiny nation.
Is Zephaniah easy to read?
Zephaniah isn’t an easy or quick read. We have homework to do to understand all that God addresses through Zephaniah. It’s a deep book, despite its short word count. Yet for all the wrestling you might encounter in its pages, if you ask, God will meet you there.
Where did Zephaniah live?
Zephaniah lived in Judah; that he lived in Jerusalem is made probable by the statement in 1:4, "I will cut off .... from this place," as well as by his intimate knowledge of the topography of the city (1:10,11).
When did Zephaniah start his ministry?
The title (Zec 1:1) places the prophetic activity of Zephaniah somewhere within the reign of Josiah, that is, between 639 and 608 BC. Most scholars accept this statement as historically correct. The most important exception is E. Koenig (Einl, 252), who places it in the decade following the death of Josiah. Koenig's arguments are altogether inconclusive, while all the internal evidence points toward the reign of Josiah as the period of Zephaniah's activity. Can the ministry of the prophet be more definitely located within the 31 years of Josiah? The latter's reign falls naturally into two parts, separated by the great reform of 621. Does the work of Zephaniah belong to the earlier or the later period?
What objections are there to Zephaniah 2:4-15?
The objections against Zephaniah 2:4-15 as a whole are equally inconclusive . For 2:13-15, a date preceding the fall of Nineveh seems most suitable. The threat against Philistia (2:4-7) also is quite intelligible in the days of Zephaniah, for the Scythians passed right through the Philistine territory. If Ethiopia stands for Egypt, 2:12 can easily be accounted for as coming from Zephaniah, for the enemies who were going along the Mediterranean coast must inevitably reach Egypt. But if it is insisted upon that the reference is to Ethiopia proper, again no difficulty exists, for in speaking of a world judgment Zephaniah might mention Ethiopia as the representative of the far south. Against 2:8-11 the following objections are raised:
What is the vision of the book of Yahweh?
The vision of the book is world-wide. The terrors of the day of Yahweh will fall upon all. In the same manner from all nations converts will be won to Yahweh (Zec 3:9,10). These will not be compelled to come to Jerusalem to worship Yahweh ( Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1 ); they may worship Him "every one from his place" (Zec 2:11), which is a step in the direction of the utterance of Jesus in John 4:21 .
Who spoke of the day of Yahweh?
Earlier prophets had spoken of the day of Yahweh; Amos (5:18-20) had described it in language similar to that employed by Zephaniah; but the latter surpasses all his predecessors in the emphasis he places upon this terrible manifestation of Yahweh (see ESCHATOLOGY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT). His entire teaching centers around this day; and in the Book of Zephaniah we find the germs of the apocalyptic visions which become so common in later prophecies of an eschatological character. Concerning this day he says
What does Zephaniah 1:2-3 mean?
And have not sought the LORD, nor inquired of Him.”. a. Against Judah: The promise of judgment in Zephaniah 1:2-3 was broad enough to include the whole earth, and to allow some to think that God didn’t really mean them.
Why is Zephaniah unoriginal?
This is why Zephaniah seems unoriginal to some scholars, because he quotes the words and ideas of many previous prophets.
Why was Zephaniah hidden?
Zephaniah was probably hidden for his own protection. b. In the days of Josiah: Josiah was a godly, young king who brought great revival and reform to Judah but Josiah reigned for 10 years before he led his great revival.
What is the word of the LORD which came to Zephaniah?
The word of the LORD which came to Zephaniah: This first verse of the prophecy of Zephaniah sets it apart from most other prophets, in that he told us both his time and his lineage. Zephaniah was an unusual prophet, in that he was of royal lineage, descending from the godly King Hezekiah. i.
What did Zephaniah warn about?
Delivering the message of the LORD, he warned of harsh and complete judgment that would consume everything before the LORD.
What is the word of God's promised judgment?
A. God’s promised judgment. 1. (1) Zephaniah: The man and his times. The word of the LORD which came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah. a.
Why is it a day of wrath?
That day is a day of wrath: It is a day of wrath because man will not give up without a fight, and because mankind will receive the just penalty for his rebellion against the LORD. Zephaniah paints the picture powerfully with the repeated description, “ a day of…. ”.
What does Zephaniah 3:17 mean?from biblehub.com
Zephaniah 3:17. Jehovah thy God is in the midst of thee, a hero who helps: He rejoices over thee in delight, He is silent in His love, exults over thee with rejoicing.". The daughter Zion, i.e., the reassembled remnant of Israel, is to exult and shout at the fulness of the salvation prepared for it.
What revelation did Zephaniah receive from the Lord?from studylight.org
Zephaniah had received from the Lord much more revelation about what He would do for Israel following the period of worldwide punishment. This section is also chiastic in its thought structure.
Why is Zion called to rejoice in God?from biblehub.com
Zion is called to rejoice in God because God rejoices in her. She is to shout for joy and sing because God’s joy too has a voice, and breaks out into singing. For every throb of joy in man’s heart, there is a wave of gladness in God’s. The notes of our praise are at once the echoes and the occasions of His.
Why is Yahweh in their midst?from studylight.org
One reason is that Yahweh their God will be in their midst ( Zephaniah 3:15 ). He will be a victorious warrior having defeated all His enemies and all opposition worldwide ( Zephaniah 1:2-3; Zephaniah 3:8 ).
What is the difference between Zion's joy and the gladness of God?from biblehub.com
Thus the gladness of God is thought of as expressing itself in dignified, calm movements, whilst Zion’s joy is likened in its expression to the more violent movements of the dance.
Overview
Zephaniah is the name of several people in the Hebrew Bible and Jewish Tanakh; the most prominent one being the prophet who prophesied in the days of Josiah, king of Judah (640–609 BCE) and is attributed a book bearing his name among the Twelve Minor Prophets. His name is commonly transliterated Sophonias in Bibles translated from the Vulgate or Septuagint. The name might mean "Yah ha…
The prophet Zephaniah
The best known Biblical figure bearing the name Zephaniah is the son of Cushi, and great-great grandson of King Hezekiah, ninth in the literary order of the Twelve Minor Prophets. He prophesied in the days of Josiah, ruler of the Kingdom of Judah (640–609 BCE), but before Josiah's reform in 621 BCE, and was contemporary with Jeremiah, with whom he had much in common. The un…
Other Zephaniahs in the Bible
Other individuals named Zephaniah include:
1. The son of Maaseiah, the "second priest" in the reign of Zedekiah, often mentioned in Jeremiah as having been sent from the king to inquire (Jer. 21:1) regarding the coming woes which he had denounced, and to entreat the prophet's intercession that the judgment threatened might be averted (Jer 29:25, 26, 29; 37:3; 52:24). He, along with some other captive Jews, was put to deat…
See also
• Book of Zephaniah
• Twelve Minor Prophets
• Apocalypse of Zephaniah (pseudepigraphic book)
External links
• Jewish translations:
• Christian translations:
• Article in the Catholic Encyclopedia
Who Wrote The Book?
Where Are We?
- The book tells us that Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah, the king of Judah from 640 to 609 BC (Zephaniah 1:1). We can begin to pinpoint exactly when Zephaniah prophesied by accounting for a few details in the text. First, in 2:13 the prophet predicted the fall of Nineveh, an event which occurred in 612 BC. Further, Zephaniah madefrequent quotations from the Law (for …
Why Is Zephaniah So Important?
- This book mentions the day of the Lord more than does any other book in the Old Testament, clarifying the picture of Judah’s fall to Babylon and the eventual judgment and restoration of all humanity in the future. In this case, it refers primarily to God’s impending time of judgment on the nation of Judah. Zephaniah saw in the day of the Lord the d...
What's The Big Idea?
- Like the writings of many of the prophets, the book of Zephaniah follows a pattern of judgment on all people for their sin followed by the restoration of God’s chosen people. Zephaniah’s primary target for God’s message of judgment, the nation of Judah, had fallen into grievous sin under the reign of their king, Manasseh. Zephaniah’s prophecy shouted out for godliness and purity in a na…
How Do I Apply this?
- Those living in Judah had turned the worship of God into a fiasco. Not only had they built their own places of worship to revere other gods (called “high places” in the Old Testament), but they had begun to desecrate the temple, which at that time was the dwelling place of God(Zephaniah 1:9). As modern-day believers in Christ, we, too, make a mockery of worship when we live in ope…