Hazzelelponi is a minor figure mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The name appears in the genealogical list of 1 Chronicles 4:3, where she is identified as a daughter within the lineage of the tribe of Judah. No additional narrative or biographical details about Hazzelelponi are provided in the biblical text.
Biblical Appearance
- 1 Chronicles 4:3 (NRSV): “The descendants of Judah: ... and the daughters of Hezron—Hazzelelponi, ...” (translation may vary). Hazzelelponi is listed among the daughters of a patriarch, but the passage does not elaborate on her life, role, or descendants.
Etymology
The Hebrew form of the name is חַצֶּלְפוֹנִי (Ḥaṭzelepōnī). The meaning of the element ḥaṭzel may be related to “shadow” or “shade,” while the suffix ‑poni could be a theophoric or locative element. No consensus exists among scholars regarding a definitive translation, and the name is not attested elsewhere in ancient Near Eastern literature.
Historical and Scholarly Notes
- Hazzelelponi is generally regarded as a genealogical entry rather than a narrative character; thus, little is known about her historically or culturally.
- The brief mention has led to limited scholarly commentary, with most footnotes in biblical commentaries noting her as part of the chronicler’s effort to document tribal lineages.
Cultural Impact
There is no record of the name Hazzelelponi being used in later religious tradition, liturgy, or popular culture beyond its presence in biblical genealogies.
References
- The Holy Bible, 1 Chronicles 4:3 (various translations).
- The New International Dictionary of Biblical Theology (entries on Hebrew personal names).
All information presented reflects the current state of scholarly consensus on the biblical mention of Hazzelelponi.