Shaphat

The name Shaphat originates from the Hebrew root shaphat (שָׁפָט), which translates to 'hath judged' or 'he has judged.' This etymology reflects the ancient Hebrew cultural emphasis on divine judgment and justice, attributes central to the identity of God in the Old Testament. The name’s linguistic roots suggest an association with fairness, authority, and the execution of divine will. Historically, names like Shaphat were often given to signify a connection to God's sovereign rule and His role as the ultimate judge.

The name Shaphat holds significant spiritual weight, as evidenced by its recurring use in the Old Testament to describe individuals with pivotal roles in Israel's history. Its Divine Proximity Index of 85.0/100 reflects a strong association with God, particularly through its connection to key biblical figures like Elisha, one of the major prophets of Israel. Furthermore, its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underscores its enduring theological relevance, as Elisha is often viewed as a prefiguration of Christ in his role as a miracle worker and spiritual leader.

The name Shaphat appears in eight distinct verses across the Old Testament, attached to five different individuals. Among the most notable is Shaphat son of Hori, who represented the tribe of Simeon as one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to assess the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:5). Unfortunately, Shaphat is traditionally understood to be among the ten spies who delivered a discouraging report, leading to the Israelites' fear and subsequent 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. This association underscores the consequences of doubt and disobedience in contrast to faith and trust in God.