Pronunciation: [səfˈə͡ʊni͡əz] (IPA) 
Sophonias is a name that is commonly spelled with a "ph" instead of an "f". The IPA phonetic transcription for Sophonias would be /səʊˈfəʊniəs/, with the "ph" sound represented by the symbol "f". However, the traditional spelling with a "ph" has been widely adopted and recognized. The name itself comes from the Hebrew language and is derived from the word "tzophaniah" which means "God has protected" or "hidden by God".
Sophonias refers to a biblical name with origins in Hebrew. In terms of etymology, Sophonias is derived from the Hebrew name "Tsephanyah" or "Zephaniah," which can be translated as "Yahweh has hidden" or "Yahweh has treasured." It is worth noting that Sophonias is an alternative form or variation of Zephaniah, which is prominently found in the Old Testament of the Bible.
In the Bible, Sophonias is the name of a minor prophet and a book in the Hebrew Scriptures, specifically in the Old Testament. The Book of Zephaniah, or Sophonias, is the ninth of the twelve Minor Prophets and focuses on prophetic messages that speak of divine judgment, repentance, and the hope of restoration. The book primarily addresses the sinful behavior of the people of Judah, both the general population and the ruling class.
Sophonias provides insights into the character and nature of God, emphasizing his role as a just and holy God who punishes wrongdoing, as well as his capacity for compassion and restoration. It carries an underlying theme of warning the people of Judah about the consequences of their actions and the possibility of God's judgment.
In summary, Sophonias is a biblical name that refers to an Old Testament prophet and the associated book found in the Hebrew Scriptures. This prophetic book explores themes of divine judgment, repentance, restoration, and offers insights into the nature of God.
The name "Sophonias" is of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek name "Σοφονίας" (Sophonías), which itself comes from the combination of two Greek words - "σοφός" (sophos) meaning "wise" or "skilled" and "φωνή" (phonḗ) meaning "voice" or "sound". Therefore, "Sophonias" can be interpreted as "wise voice" or "sound of wisdom".
