Chephi'rah is a town mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. It is one of the cities of the Gibeonites, a group of Hivites who famously deceived Joshua and the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them. This entry will explore the biblical references to Chephi'rah, its historical and geographical significance, and its role in the narrative of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land.

Biblical References:

Chephi'rah is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua. The Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelites, resorted to a cunning plan to secure their safety. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land and sought a covenant of peace with Joshua. The Israelites, without seeking counsel from the LORD, made a treaty with them. It was later discovered that the Gibeonites were actually local inhabitants. Despite the deception, the Israelites honored the treaty due to the oath they had sworn.

Joshua 9:17 states: "So the Israelites set out and reached their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, Chephi'rah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim."

Chephi'rah is again mentioned in the allotment of land to the tribe of Benjamin. It is listed among the towns given to Benjamin, indicating its location within the tribal boundaries.

Joshua 18:25-26 includes Chephi'rah in the list of cities: "Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth, Mizpeh, Chephi'rah, Mozah..."

Historical and Geographical Significance:

Chephi'rah, along with Gibeon, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim, formed a confederation of cities that played a significant role in the early history of Israel's settlement in Canaan. The exact location of Chephi'rah is not definitively known today, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the hill country of Benjamin, northwest of Jerusalem.

The Gibeonite treaty had long-lasting implications for the Israelites. Although the Gibeonites became servants, tasked with duties such as drawing water and cutting wood for the community and the altar of the LORD, their presence within Israelite territory was a constant reminder of the need for discernment and reliance on divine guidance.

Role in Israelite Narrative:

The account of Chephi'rah and the Gibeonite deception underscores several key themes in the biblical narrative. It highlights the importance of seeking God's counsel in decision-making and the binding nature of oaths made before the LORD. The Israelites' commitment to their word, even when obtained through deceit, reflects the high value placed on integrity and faithfulness.

Furthermore, the inclusion of Chephi'rah in the tribal allotments signifies the integration of the Gibeonites into the Israelite community, albeit in a servile capacity. This integration illustrates the complex relationships between the Israelites and the indigenous peoples of Canaan, as well as the unfolding of God's plan for His chosen people in the land He promised to their forefathers.

In summary, Chephi'rah serves as a testament to the historical and theological dimensions of the Israelite conquest and settlement, reminding readers of the enduring principles of faithfulness and the consequences of actions taken without divine consultation.Chephi'rah (4 Occurrences)

Joshua 9:17
And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim.
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Joshua 18:26
and Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Mozah;
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Ezra 2:25
The children of Kiriath-arim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred and forty and three.
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Nehemiah 7:29
The men of Kiriath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty and three.
(See RSV)

Chephi'rah (4 Occurrences)
Chephi'rah. Chephirah, Chephi'rah. Chephirim . Multi-Version Concordance
Chephi'rah (4 Occurrences). Joshua 9:17 And the children ...
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Chephirah (4 Occurrences)

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Chephirim (1 Occurrence)

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