קְנַז
Kenaz, the name of an Edomite and of two Israelites
Definition
Kenaz (קְנַז) is a proper name given to several individuals in the Old Testament. Primarily, it refers to an Edomite chieftain, a grandson of Esau (Genesis 36:11, 15, 42). It also names two significant Israelites: the brother of Caleb, who was the father of Othniel (Joshua 15:17, Judges 1:13), and Othniel himself, who became the first judge of Israel (Judges 3:9, 11). The name connects the Edomite and Israelite lineages, showing the intertwined histories of these peoples.
Biblical Usage
The name Kenaz appears 11 times, primarily in genealogical and historical narratives. In Genesis, it identifies an Edomite clan leader descended from Esau. In Joshua and Judges, it shifts to the Israelite context, identifying Caleb's brother and his son Othniel. A key pattern is its use in both major enemy (Edomite) and Israelite hero (judge) lineages, highlighting complex family connections across biblical nations.
Etymology
The name Kenaz is likely derived from an unused Hebrew root meaning 'to hunt,' making its probable meaning 'hunter.' This connects it to a skill or vocation, a common source for ancient Semitic names. Similar naming patterns are seen in other biblical figures whose names describe an activity or characteristic.
Semantic Range
Kenaz is theologically significant as it bridges the line of Esau (Edom) and the line of Israel through Judah. The Edomite Kenaz represents the fulfillment of God's promise to make Esau a nation (Genesis 36). The Israelite Kenaz, as the father of Judge Othniel, links to God's provision of deliverance for His people (Judges 3:9). This dual usage subtly shows God's sovereignty over all family lines and His ability to raise up leaders from unexpected connections.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, names often reflected personal traits, occupations, or parental hopes. 'Hunter' (Kenaz) would have been a name of respect, denoting skill, provision, and strength. The reuse of the same name across different nations (Edom and Israel) was not unusual, as names and clans often migrated and were adopted between related peoples through marriage, alliance, or conquest.
None directly applicable for a proper name.
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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