Topical Encyclopedia Za-anan'nim is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. It is associated with the narrative of Deborah and Barak, a significant episode in the history of Israel during the period of the Judges. The name Za-anan'nim is thought to mean "removings" or "wanderings," which may reflect its geographical or historical context.Biblical Reference: Za-anan'nim is mentioned in Judges 4:11, which states: "Now Heber the Kenite had moved away from the Kenites, the descendants of Hobab the father-in-law of Moses, and had pitched his tent by the great tree of Za-anan'nim near Kedesh." This passage situates Za-anan'nim near Kedesh, a city in the territory of Naphtali, in the northern part of ancient Israel. The mention of the "great tree" suggests that Za-anan'nim was a notable landmark, possibly a place of gathering or a well-known location for travelers and inhabitants of the region. Historical and Geographical Context: Za-anan'nim's proximity to Kedesh places it within the tribal allotment of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This area was characterized by its varied terrain, including fertile valleys and rugged hills, which played a significant role in the military campaigns described in the Book of Judges. The narrative context of Judges 4 involves the oppression of Israel by Jabin, king of Canaan, and his commander Sisera. Deborah, a prophetess and judge, calls upon Barak to lead an army against Sisera. The mention of Heber the Kenite's encampment at Za-anan'nim highlights the presence of Kenite clans in the region, who were traditionally allied with Israel but maintained a degree of independence. Cultural and Theological Significance: The account of Deborah and Barak, with its setting near Za-anan'nim, underscores themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. Deborah's leadership and prophetic role challenge traditional gender roles of the time, illustrating God's use of diverse individuals to accomplish His purposes. The victory over Sisera, facilitated by a sudden storm that rendered his chariots ineffective, is seen as a testament to God's sovereignty and power. Za-anan'nim, though a minor geographical reference, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history, where locations often serve as backdrops for divine encounters and pivotal events in the life of Israel. The mention of Heber the Kenite also reflects the complex social and ethnic interactions in ancient Canaan, where various groups coexisted and influenced one another. In summary, Za-anan'nim is a location that, while briefly mentioned, is integral to the narrative of Judges 4, providing insight into the historical and theological dimensions of the biblical text. Concordance Za-anan'nim (2 Occurrences)Joshua 19:33 Judges 4:11 Thesaurus 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) Zaavan (2 Occurrences) Ken'ite (5 Occurrences) Ken'ites (6 Occurrences) Father-in-law (25 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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