Za'anan is a location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Micah. It is referenced in the context of a prophetic lamentation over the cities of Judah. The name Za'anan is believed to mean "going out" or "exit," which is significant in the context of the biblical narrative.

Biblical Reference:

The primary mention of Za'anan is found in Micah 1:11. The prophet Micah, who ministered during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, delivers a series of oracles against various cities in Judah. In Micah 1:11 , it is written: "Depart in shame, O inhabitants of Shaphir; the inhabitants of Za'anan do not come out. Beth Ezel is in mourning; its support is taken from you."

In this passage, Micah uses a play on words with the name Za'anan, which means "going out." The inhabitants of Za'anan are ironically noted for not coming out, suggesting a situation of siege or captivity where they are unable to leave their city. This reflects the broader theme of judgment and calamity that Micah prophesies against the cities of Judah due to their sins and transgressions.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The exact location of Za'anan is not definitively known, but it is generally considered to be in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah. This area was known for its strategic importance and fertile land, often serving as a battleground between the kingdoms of Judah and their adversaries.

Za'anan's mention alongside other cities such as Shaphir and Beth Ezel suggests that it was part of a network of towns affected by the Assyrian invasions during the 8th century BC. The Assyrian Empire, under kings like Tiglath-Pileser III and Sennacherib, posed a significant threat to the region, leading to the destruction and exile of many inhabitants.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Za'anan in Micah's prophecy serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament often uses specific cities and their fates as symbols of divine judgment. In the case of Za'anan, the inability of its inhabitants to "come out" underscores the theme of captivity and the loss of freedom that results from disobedience to God's covenant.

Micah's message, while one of impending judgment, also carries an implicit call to repentance. The prophet's lament over the cities of Judah is not merely a declaration of doom but an invitation to return to faithfulness and seek God's mercy.

Conclusion:

Za'anan, though briefly mentioned, plays a role in the larger narrative of Micah's prophetic ministry. It serves as a testament to the historical realities faced by the people of Judah and the spiritual lessons that can be drawn from their experiences. The city's mention in the Bible invites readers to reflect on the importance of obedience to God and the hope of redemption through repentance.Za'anan (1 Occurrence)

Micah 1:11
Pass on, inhabitant of Shaphir, in nakedness and shame. The inhabitant of Zaanan won't come out. The wailing of Beth Ezel will take from you his protection.
(See RSV)

Za'anan (1 Occurrence)
Za'anan. Zaanan, Za'anan. Zaanannim . Multi-Version Concordance Za'anan (1
Occurrence). Micah 1:11 Pass on, inhabitant of Shaphir, in nakedness and shame. ...
/z/za'anan.htm - 6k

Za-anan'nim (2 Occurrences)
Za-anan'nim. Zaanannim, Za-anan'nim. Zaavan . Multi-Version Concordance
Za-anan'nim (2 Occurrences). Joshua 19:33 And their border ...
/z/za-anan'nim.htm - 7k

Zaanannim (2 Occurrences)

/z/zaanannim.htm - 8k

Zaanan (1 Occurrence)

/z/zaanan.htm - 7k

Zaavan (2 Occurrences)

/z/zaavan.htm - 7k

Ken'ite (5 Occurrences)
... ite had separated from the Ken'ites, the descendants of Hobab the father-in-law
of Moses, and had pitched his tent as far away as the oak in Za-anan'nim, which ...
/k/ken'ite.htm - 7k

Ken'ites (6 Occurrences)
... ite had separated from the Ken'ites, the descendants of Hobab the father-in-law
of Moses, and had pitched his tent as far away as the oak in Za-anan'nim, which ...
/k/ken'ites.htm - 8k

Father-in-law (25 Occurrences)
... ite had separated from the Ken'ites, the descendants of Hobab the father-in-law
of Moses, and had pitched his tent as far away as the oak in Za-anan'nim, which ...
/f/father-in-law.htm - 15k

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