Saph
סַף/SAF/
“Threshold or tall”
Summary
A Philistine giant of the race of Rapha, slain by Sibbechai the Hushathite during David's wars with the Philistines.
☩Death in Battle
Saph was one of the four champions of the race of Rapha (the giant clan) among the Philistines. He was slain by Sibbechai the Hushathite, one of David's mighty men, in a battle at Gob (or Gezer) around 1050 BC. In the parallel account in 1 Chronicles, he is called Sippai.
Key verses:2 Samuel 21:181 Chronicles 20:4
☩The Giant Clan
Saph belonged to 'the sons of the giant,' a phrase referring to the Rephaim or descendants of Rapha. Some have supposed he was a son of Goliath, though this is not proven. His death was one of several victories David's warriors achieved over Philistine giants.
Key verses:2 Samuel 21:18
References
- 1.James Orr (ed.), "Saph," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 2.John McClintock and James Strong, "Saph," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).