Topical Encyclopedia Name Meaning: The name Heph'zibah means "My delight is in her" in Hebrew. This name reflects a sense of joy and favor, often associated with divine pleasure and blessing.Biblical References: 1. 2 Kings 21:1 : Heph'zibah is mentioned as the wife of King Hezekiah and the mother of King Manasseh of Judah. "Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. His mother’s name was Hephzibah." 2. Isaiah 62:4 : Although not directly referring to the person Heph'zibah, this verse uses the name symbolically to describe the restored Jerusalem. "No longer will you be called Forsaken, nor your land named Desolate; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be married." Historical Context: Heph'zibah lived during the late 8th century and early 7th century BC, a period marked by significant political and religious changes in the Kingdom of Judah. Her husband, King Hezekiah, was known for his religious reforms and efforts to centralize worship in Jerusalem, as well as his resistance against Assyrian domination. Role and Influence: As the queen mother, Heph'zibah would have held a position of considerable influence in the royal court. Her son, Manasseh, became one of the longest-reigning monarchs in Judah's history. However, his reign is often characterized by a return to idolatry and practices contrary to the reforms instituted by Hezekiah. The Bible does not provide specific details about Heph'zibah's personal influence on Manasseh or her role in the court, but her position as queen mother would have been significant. Symbolic Use of the Name: The use of Heph'zibah in Isaiah 62:4 is symbolic, representing God's renewed favor and delight in His people. This prophetic passage speaks to the transformation and restoration of Jerusalem, emphasizing a future where the city and its inhabitants are once again in a covenant relationship with God, marked by His delight and blessing. Theological Significance: Heph'zibah's name and its symbolic use in Isaiah highlight themes of divine favor, restoration, and the joy of the Lord in His people. Her life, as part of the royal lineage of Judah, connects to the broader narrative of God's covenant with David and the eventual coming of the Messiah, who would fulfill the promises of restoration and eternal kingship. Cultural and Religious Impact: In Jewish and Christian traditions, Heph'zibah's name serves as a reminder of God's enduring love and commitment to His people. It underscores the belief that, despite periods of unfaithfulness and judgment, God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and delight in His chosen ones. The name continues to be used in various cultural and religious contexts as a symbol of hope and divine favor. Concordance Heph'zibah (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 21:1 Thesaurus Heph'zibah (1 Occurrence)Heph'zibah. Hephzibah, Heph'zibah. Hephzi-bah . Multi-Version Concordance Heph'zibah (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 21:1 Manasseh was twelve ... /h/heph'zibah.htm - 6k Hephzibah (2 Occurrences) Hephzi-bah (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |