אֹן (on)
on
On
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun on refers to a specific city in lower Egypt, often identified with Heliopolis. Its name carries the meaning of "strength" or "vigour," reflecting its status as a major center of sun worship. Located near the border of Goshen, this urban hub was significant enough to be noted in the biblical narrative as the residence of Potipherah, the priest who gave his daughter Asenath in marriage to Joseph (Genesis 41:45, 50).
Although the word appears only three times in Scripture, its presence marks a shift from the pastoral life of Jacob’s family to integration into Egyptian society. The text highlights On not merely as a geographic point but as the seat of religious and political power where Joseph rose to prominence. By mentioning this city, the biblical authors connect the patriarchs to the broader historical and spiritual landscape of ancient Egypt.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
On was a city in lower Egypt, often identified with Heliopolis. Its name suggests strength and vigour, reflecting its role as a major center of sun worship. Located near Goshen, it served as an urban hub where Joseph married Asenath, the daughter of Potipherah, a priest there (Genesis 41:45). This connection marked a shift for Jacob’s family from pastoral life to integration into Egyptian society.
Though On appears only three times in Scripture, its presence highlights how God placed Joseph in a position of influence within a powerful religious and political center. By mentioning this city, the biblical authors connect the patriarchs to the broader historical landscape of ancient Egypt. It shows that God works through specific places and people to fulfill His purposes.
For your faith journey, On reminds us that God can use even secular or foreign environments for His glory. Just as Joseph thrived in Egypt, you too can find purpose and strength in unexpected places. May you trust that God is present wherever you are, guiding your steps with wisdom and care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- On3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֽוֹן\׃1×
- אֹ֖ן1×
- אֹ֑ן1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 41:45
Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-Paneah. He gave him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On as a wife. Joseph went out over the land of Egypt.
This verse introduces On as the home of Potipherah, establishing Joseph's new identity and marital ties within Egyptian society.
-
Genesis 41:50
To Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, bore to him.
Here, On is mentioned again to confirm that Joseph’s sons were born to Asenath, a daughter of the priest of On, during the years before the famine.
-
Genesis 46:20
To Joseph in the land of Egypt were born Manasseh and Ephraim, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, bore to him.
The reference here reinforces the lineage of Joseph’s descendants, tracing their origin back to his life in Egypt and his connection to On.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does On mean in the Bible?
Why is On mentioned in Genesis?
Who was Potipherah?
How does On relate to Joseph’s story?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Genesis 3 verses
Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-Paneah. He gave him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On as a wife.…
Genesis 41:50To Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, bore…
Genesis 46:20To Joseph in the land of Egypt were born Manasseh and Ephraim, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On,…