Nephthar is a term that appears in the context of Jewish tradition and is often associated with the miraculous preservation of the sacred fire used in the Temple in Jerusalem. While the term itself is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, it is referenced in the apocryphal writings, particularly in 2 Maccabees, which provides historical context for the Jewish people during the intertestamental period.

Historical Context

The account of Nephthar is primarily found in 2 Maccabees 1:18-36, where it is described as a miraculous event involving the sacred fire of the Jewish Temple. According to the account, when the Jews were led into captivity by the Babylonians, the priests took the fire from the altar and hid it in a dry cistern to preserve it. Many years later, during the time of Nehemiah, the fire was rediscovered and miraculously rekindled. The substance found in the cistern was described as a thick liquid, which, upon being poured on the altar, ignited into a flame. This event was seen as a divine sign of God's enduring presence and favor upon His people.

Theological Significance

The account of Nephthar holds theological significance as it underscores themes of divine providence, faithfulness, and the continuity of worship despite adversity. The preservation and rekindling of the sacred fire symbolize God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the purity and sanctity of worship, even in times of trial and exile.

Symbolism of Fire

In the broader biblical narrative, fire often symbolizes God's presence, purity, and judgment. For instance, God appeared to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:2), and His presence was manifested as a pillar of fire guiding the Israelites through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21). The sacred fire on the altar in the Temple was a perpetual symbol of God's holiness and the people's dedication to Him.

Related Biblical Themes

While Nephthar itself is not mentioned in the canonical texts, the themes it represents are echoed throughout Scripture. The preservation of the sacred fire can be seen as a parallel to God's preservation of His people and His promises. In the New Testament, the concept of spiritual fire is further developed, with believers being called to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14) and to maintain the fervor of their faith (Romans 12:11).

Conclusion

The account of Nephthar, though found in the apocryphal writings, enriches the understanding of Jewish history and tradition during the Second Temple period. It highlights the resilience of faith and the miraculous ways in which God sustains His people, encouraging believers to trust in His providence and remain steadfast in their worship.NEPHTHAR; NEPHTHAI

nef'-thar (Nephthar; Codex Alexandrinus and Swete, Nephthar, the King James Version and Vulgate (Jerome's Latin Bible, 390-405 A.D.) Naphthar), (Nephthai, al. Nephthaei, Fritzsche, Nepha, the King James Version and Vulgate, following Old Latin, Nephi; Swete, following Codex Alexandrinus, gives Nephthar twice): According to 2 Maccabees 1:19-36, at the time of the captivity the godly priests took of the altar fire of the temple and concealed it "privily in the hollow of a well that was without water," unknown to all. "After many years" (upon Return), before offering the sacrifices, Nehemiah sent the descendants of the godly priests to fetch the hidden fire. They reported they could find no fire but only "thick water" hudor pachu), which he commanded them to draw up and sprinkle upon the wood and the sacrifices. After an interval the sun shone forth from behind a cloud and the liquid ignited and consumed the sacrifices. Nehemiah then commanded them to pour (katachein, al. katechein, and kataschein) the rest of the liquid upon great stones. Another flame sprang up which soon spent itself, "whereas the light from the altar shone still" (Revised Version margin, the exact meaning being doubtful). When the king of Persia investigated it, he enclosed the spot as sacred. Nehemiah and his friends called the thick liquid "Nephthar," "which is by interpretation `cleansing' " (katharismos), "but most men call it Nephthai."

No satisfactory explanation is to hand of either name; one of which is probably a corruption of the other. And no word exists in the Hebrew like either of them with the meaning of "cleansing," "purification." The Vulgate (Jerome's Latin Bible, 390-405 A.D.) applies the name to the spot (hunc locum), not the thing. The story probably originated in Persia, where naphtha was abundant. The ignition of the liquid by the hot rays of the sun and the appearance of the words render it highly probable that it was the inflammable rockoil naphtha, the combustible properties of which were quite familiar to the ancients (Pliny, NH, ii. 109; Plutarch, Alexander 35; Diosc., i0.101; Strabo, Geogr. xvi.1, 15); the words then are probably corruptions of what the Greeks termed naphtha. Ewald (History, V, 163) says: "This is but one of the many stories which sought in later times to enhance the very high sanctity of the Temple, with reference even to its origin."

S. Angus

Nephthar
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NEPHTHAR; NEPHTHAI. nef'-thar (Nephthar;
Codex Alexandrinus and Swete, Nephthar, the King James ...
/n/nephthar.htm - 8k

Nephthai
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NEPHTHAR; NEPHTHAI. nef'-thar (Nephthar;
Codex Alexandrinus and Swete, Nephthar, the King James ...
/n/nephthai.htm - 8k

Nephtoah (2 Occurrences)

/n/nephtoah.htm - 9k

Naphthar
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NAPHTHAR. naf'-thar (the King James Version):
the Revised Version (British and American) "Nephthar.". ...
/n/naphthar.htm - 6k

Nephthalim (2 Occurrences)

/n/nephthalim.htm - 7k

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