עָנַק
to collar, i.e. adorn with anecklace; figuratively, to fit out with supplies
Definition
The Hebrew verb עָנַק (ʻânaq) primarily means 'to put on a necklace' or 'to adorn with a collar,' as in adorning someone with jewelry. Figuratively, it extends to mean 'to supply liberally' or 'to furnish abundantly,' especially in the context of providing for someone's needs. In Deuteronomy 15:14, it is used in God's command to generously furnish a freed Hebrew servant with livestock and produce from one's own resources. In Psalm 73:6, the word describes the arrogant as being 'clothed' or 'encompassed' with violence as if it were a garment or chain, highlighting a metaphorical adornment with wickedness.
Biblical Usage
This verb occurs only twice in the Old Testament, both times in poetic or legal contexts. In Deuteronomy 15:14, it appears in legal instruction concerning the generous provision for a servant being released. In Psalm 73:6, it is used in a wisdom psalm to depict the pride and violence of the wicked, who are metaphorically adorned with arrogance. The usage shows a movement from a concrete act of adorning or supplying to a more abstract, figurative description of character.
Etymology
Derived from the primitive root meaning 'to choke,' עָנַק is used only as a denominative verb from the noun עָנָק (ʻânâq, H6060), meaning 'necklace' or 'chain.' Thus, its core meaning relates to placing something around the neck. The connection to 'choking' may imply the constricting nature of a necklace, but in biblical usage, the focus is on adornment and provision rather than restriction.
Semantic Range
This word enriches the biblical themes of generosity and justice, as seen in Deuteronomy 15:14, where God commands liberality toward the vulnerable, reflecting His own provision and covenant faithfulness. In Psalm 73:6, it underscores the deceptive nature of wickedness, which can 'adorn' a person with a false appearance of strength. Understanding this Hebrew term deepens appreciation for how material provision and moral character are both depicted through the imagery of adornment.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, adorning someone with a necklace or collar could signify honor, wealth, or status, such as in ceremonies or upon a servant's release. The command in Deuteronomy to 'furnish liberally' a freed servant reflects a societal expectation of generosity that enabled the person to start anew, contrasting with mere manumission. The metaphorical use in Psalms draws on this tangible symbol of adornment to critique spiritual arrogance.
עָנָד (ʻânad, H6029) — to bind or fasten, often for adornment, but more general than specifically collaring; פָּעַל (pāʻal, H6466) — to make or do, a broad term for action without the nuance of adorning or supplying liberally.
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.
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