עֵין תַּנִּים

En-Tannim, a pool near Jerusalem

Definition

En-Tannim is a proper noun referring to a specific geographical location, a pool or spring near Jerusalem. The name literally means 'spring of the jackals' or 'fountain of the dragons,' derived from its Hebrew components. It is mentioned only once in the Old Testament in Nehemiah 2:13 as a landmark during Nehemiah's nighttime inspection of Jerusalem's ruined walls. The site's exact modern location is uncertain, but it is traditionally associated with the Gihon Spring or a nearby pool in the Kidron Valley, serving as a water source outside the city's walls.

Biblical Usage

The term is used exclusively as a place name in Nehemiah 2:13. In this context, it functions as a geographical marker, helping to trace Nehemiah's route as he surveyed the damage to Jerusalem's fortifications. There are no other occurrences or varied usages in the biblical text.

Etymology

The name is a compound of two Hebrew words: 'ayin' (עַיִן, H5869), meaning 'spring,' 'fountain,' or 'eye,' and the plural form of 'tan' (תַּן, H8565), meaning 'jackal' or 'dragon.' Thus, En-Tannim directly translates to 'spring of the jackals' or 'fountain of the dragons,' likely describing a water source frequented by these wild animals or symbolically denoting a desolate place.

Semantic Range

In the ancient Near East, place names often described physical characteristics or fauna of a location. A 'spring of jackals' suggests a site possibly on the outskirts of settlement, where such scavengers were common, indicating it was a somewhat wild or desolate area. This contrasts with modern naming conventions, which are often less descriptive. The KJV's translation as 'dragon well' reflects the older, more mythical understanding of 'tan,' which could imply a serpentine or monstrous creature.

Gihon (Gîychôwn, H1521) — another spring in Jerusalem, a primary water source. Shiloah (Shiloach, H7975) — a pool or conduit in Jerusalem, associated with water flow.

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