How Do You Spell TOPHETH?

Pronunciation: [tˈɒfəθ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Topheth" may seem unusual, but it has a clear phonetic reasoning behind it. The word is pronounced /ˈtɒfɛθ/ (TAW-feth) with the stress on the first syllable. The "th" at the end is pronounced as the voiceless dental fricative /θ/, which is a sound used in English but not found in all languages. The "o" represents a short vowel /ɒ/ instead of the more common long "o" sound /əʊ/. This unique spelling helps to accurately convey the pronunciation of the word.

TOPHETH Meaning and Definition

1. Topheth is a term primarily associated with the ancient Near East and mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. It refers to a site or location primarily used for the purpose of child sacrifice. The term "Topheth" originates from a Hebrew word meaning "place of burning" or "place of fire."

   In historical and archaeological context, Topheth typically refers to a specific place or a designated area within a larger geographical location that served as a dedicated site for infant or child sacrifices. These sacrifices were often performed as part of religious rituals associated with ancient pagan cultures and idol worship. Topheth is commonly associated with the worship of the god Baal in ancient Canaanite and Phoenician societies.

   The practice of child sacrifice was considered an abomination by the Hebrew prophets, particularly in relation to the worship of foreign gods. Topheth is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible in various passages, including the books of Jeremiah, Isaiah, and 2 Kings, emphasizing its condemnation and the divine punishment it attracted.

   In modern usage, the term "Topheth" may also be metaphorically employed to describe any place or situation characterized by extreme suffering, destruction, or immorality. It serves as a historical marker that reminds humanity of the repugnant practices that prevailed in ancient times, while reinforcing the importance of moral and ethical standards in contemporary society.

2. In Scrip., a place lying south-east of Jerusalem, in the valley of Hinnom, where fire was continually kept burning; hell.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for TOPHETH

• ropheth
• fopheth
• gopheth
• yopheth
• 6opheth
• 5opheth
• tipheth
• tkpheth
• tlpheth
• tppheth
• t0pheth
• t9pheth
• tooheth
• tolheth
• to-heth
• to0heth
• topgeth
• topbeth
• topneth
• topjeth

Etymology of TOPHETH

The word "Topheth" has its roots in ancient Hebrew. It is derived from the Hebrew word תֹּפֶת (Topheth), which itself is believed to originate from the Aramaic word תַּפְתֵּא (tapte), meaning "fireplace" or "burning place".