תַּאֲנַת שִׁלֹה

תַּאֲנַת שִׁלֹה

Taanath-Shiloh, a place in Palestine

Definition

Taanath-Shiloh is a proper noun referring to a specific location in ancient Palestine, mentioned only once in the Bible. It was a town or landmark on the southern border of the tribal territory of Ephraim, as described in the detailed account of the land's division (Joshua 16:6). The name itself, meaning 'approach of Shiloh,' likely indicates its geographical relationship to the important religious center of Shiloh, possibly marking a route or boundary point near that city. As a border town, it served as a geographical marker in defining the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Joshua 16:6. It appears in a strictly geographical and administrative context, as part of the detailed description of the boundaries of the tribal allotment given to Ephraim. The usage is formulaic, following the pattern of other border towns listed in the conquest and settlement narratives of the book of Joshua.

Etymology

The name Taanath-Shiloh is a compound of two Hebrew elements: תַּאֲנָה (taʼănâ, H8385), meaning 'approach' or 'way,' and שִׁילֹה (Shilôh, H7887), the name of the major Israelite religious and political center during the period of the judges. The combined meaning, 'approach of Shiloh,' suggests a location leading to or near the city of Shiloh. This is a typical Hebrew construction for place names, indicating proximity or relation to a more prominent site.

Semantic Range

While the place name itself is not theologically loaded, its single mention in Joshua 16:6 connects it to the important biblical theme of God's faithfulness in fulfilling the promise of the land to the tribes of Israel. Its location on Ephraim's border, near Shiloh—where the Tabernacle was later established (Joshua 18:1)—subtly links it to the unfolding story of Israel's worship and tribal identity in the Promised Land. Understanding its meaning ('approach of Shiloh') can enrich a reader's mental map of the biblical narrative. In its original context, Taanath-Shiloh was a tangible marker on the landscape, defining tribal territory—a concept of immense social, economic, and political importance in ancient Israel. The precise drawing of borders was crucial for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance, which was understood as a divine grant. Its name, referencing Shiloh, highlights the cultural and religious centrality of Shiloh in the early settlement period before the establishment of the monarchy. גְּבוּל (gevul, H1366) — A general term for 'border' or 'boundary,' whereas Taanath-Shiloh is a specific place name marking a boundary. שִׁילֹה (Shiloh, H7887) — The major city to which Taanath-Shiloh's name refers, denoting proximity.

Word Details