עֲנָב
Anab, a place in Palestine
Definition
Anab is a proper noun referring to a town in the hill country of Judah, located in the southern part of ancient Palestine. The name itself means 'fruit' or 'grape,' likely describing the town's agricultural character. It is mentioned specifically in the context of Joshua's conquest of the land, where it was inhabited by the Anakim, a people noted for their stature and strength (Joshua 11:21). Later, it is listed among the cities allotted to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:50).
Biblical Usage
The word is used exclusively in the book of Joshua, appearing only twice in the Old Testament. In Joshua 11:21, it is noted as one of the towns from which Joshua cut off the Anakim, highlighting its role in the narrative of Israel's military conquest. In Joshua 15:50, it appears in a list of cities given as an inheritance to the tribe of Judah, emphasizing its geographical and tribal allocation. Both uses are in historical/geographical contexts.
Etymology
The name Anab (עֲנָב) is derived from the same root as the Hebrew word for 'grape' (עֵנָב, H6025). It is a cognate noun meaning 'fruit,' specifically grape fruit. This suggests the town was likely named for its vineyards or fruitful land, a common practice for place names in the ancient Near East based on local produce or features.
Semantic Range
While Anab itself is a geographical location, its mention contributes to the theological theme of God's faithfulness in fulfilling the land promise to Israel. Its association with the defeat of the Anakim (Joshua 11:21) underscores God's power in overcoming formidable obstacles for His people, reinforcing the narrative of divine conquest and provision.
In its original setting, a town named 'Grape' or 'Fruit' would immediately communicate its economic and agricultural significance, likely being known for viticulture. The presence of the Anakim there connects it to the widespread ancient Near Eastern traditions about legendary giants, which the biblical account contextualizes within Israel's history of conquest under God's command.
No direct synonyms as a proper place name. Related conceptually to: עֵנָב (ʻēnāḇ, H6025) — the common noun for 'grape,' which is the root word for the place name Anab.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →