Topical Encyclopedia Caphtorim refers to the descendants of Caphtor, a people mentioned in the Bible as originating from the region known as Caphtor. The Caphtorim are listed among the descendants of Mizraim, the son of Ham, in the Table of Nations found in Genesis 10. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Mizraim was the father of the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, Pathrusites, Casluhites (from whom the Philistines came), and the Caphtorites" (Genesis 10:13-14).Caphtor is identified as the original homeland of the Philistines, a significant people group in the Old Testament narrative. The prophet Amos refers to the Philistines as having come from Caphtor: "Did I not bring Israel up from the land of Egypt, the Philistines from Caphtor, and the Arameans from Kir?" (Amos 9:7). This passage suggests a divine orchestration in the movements of nations, including the migration of the Philistines from Caphtor to the coastal regions of Canaan. The exact geographical location of Caphtor is a subject of scholarly debate, but it is often associated with the island of Crete or other locations in the Aegean Sea. This association is supported by historical and archaeological evidence linking the Philistines to the Sea Peoples, who are believed to have originated from the Aegean region. In Deuteronomy 2:23, the Caphtorim are mentioned in the context of the displacement of the Avvites: "As for the Avvites who lived in villages as far as Gaza, the Caphtorites who came from Caphtor destroyed them and settled in their place" . This passage highlights the Caphtorim's role in the ancient Near Eastern migrations and conflicts that shaped the history of the region. The Caphtorim, as descendants of Mizraim, are part of the broader narrative of the descendants of Noah's sons, which outlines the origins and relationships of various ancient peoples. Their mention in the genealogies and historical accounts of the Bible underscores the interconnectedness of the nations and the unfolding of God's plan through history. In summary, the Caphtorim and their land, Caphtor, hold a significant place in biblical history as the ancestral home of the Philistines and as part of the complex tapestry of peoples and nations described in the Scriptures. Their account is interwoven with the broader narrative of God's dealings with humanity and the fulfillment of His purposes through the ages. Smith's Bible Dictionary Caphtorim Caphtor(a crown), thrice mentioned as the primitive seat of the Philistines, (2:23; Jeremiah 47:4; Amos 9:7) who are once called Caphtorim . (2:23) Supposed to be in Egypt, or near to it in Africa. Strong's Hebrew 3732. Kaphtori -- descendant of Mizraim, also their land... Word Origin from Kaphtor Definition desc. of Mizraim, also their land NASB Word Usage Caphtor (1), Caphtorim (2). Caphthorim, Caphtorims. ... /hebrew/3732.htm - 6k Library The Greek Versions as Aids to Biblical Study. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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