Zophim
צֹפִים/ZOH-fim/
“Watchers or lookouts”
Summary
A field on the top of Pisgah where Balak took Balaam to curse Israel, overlooking the desert wilderness.
☩Location
The 'field of Zophim' was located on the summit of Pisgah in the Abarim range east of the Jordan. Balak brought Balaam here as his second vantage point after the curse from Bamoth-baal failed, hoping this different location would enable a successful curse against Israel encamped below. The name means 'watchers' or 'watchmen,' suggesting it was an observation point.
Key verses:Numbers 23:14
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Zophim," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Zophim," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).