אֲנִיעָם (a.ni.am)
a.ni.am
Aniam
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Aniam belongs to a specific individual listed in the genealogies of the tribe of Manasseh. He appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded as the son of Shemida and brother to Ahian, Shechem, and Likhi in 1 Chronicles 7:19. This single mention places him within the broader narrative of Israel’s tribal structure during the period leading up to and including the wilderness journey.
Lexical sources offer two possible interpretations for the meaning of this personal name. One view suggests it translates to "I am the people," emphasizing identity or collective existence. Another tradition interprets it as "lament of people," which introduces a more somber emotional tone. These differing translations highlight how ancient Hebrew names often carried significant theological or descriptive weight, even for those who appear only briefly in the scriptural record.
Because Aniam is mentioned solely in this genealogical context, his role in Scripture is defined by his lineage rather than any personal deeds. He serves as a link in the chain of ancestors that connects the tribe of Manasseh to the larger history of Israel. His inclusion underscores the biblical emphasis on family lines and tribal heritage, preserving the memory of individuals who might otherwise remain unknown.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names in Scripture often carry deep meaning, even when the person mentioned appears only once. Aniam means either "I am the people" or "lament of the people." This single mention in Chronicles shows how God values every individual within His chosen tribe.
His place in the genealogy reminds us that we are part of a larger story. Just as Aniam was recorded for his lineage, our lives matter to God regardless of how brief our appearance in history may seem. He connects the tribe of Manasseh to Israel's broader journey.
This passage encourages us to see ourselves as connected to something greater than our own immediate experience. Each name preserved in Scripture reflects God's care for His people across generations.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Aniam1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/אֲנִיעָֽם\׃\ \פ1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 7:19
The sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam.
This verse lists Aniam as a son of Shemida, establishing his role within the Manassite lineage and confirming his place in Israel's tribal structure.