אַסְנָה (as.nah)

as.nah

Asnah

H0619 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

N:N-M-P

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 1 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Asnah appears in Ezra 2:50 as the head of a family among the Nethinim, the temple servants who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The sources identify him specifically as a leader within this group, which consisted of individuals assigned to serve in the temple rather than holding priestly lineage.

Etymologically, the name is interpreted as meaning "I shall be hated" or "she has stored up." Some lexicons suggest a connection to the word for "thorn-bush," though the primary emphasis remains on the personal identity of this returnee. His mention serves as a record of the diverse communities that rebuilt Jewish life in the land, highlighting the inclusion of temple servants in the post-exilic restoration.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Asnah appears in a brief genealogical list within Ezra, marking the head of a family among the Nethinim. These were temple servants who dedicated their lives to maintaining the worship community after the exile. Their inclusion shows that God’s plan for restoration involved people from every background and role, not just those with priestly lineage.

Asnah’s name, which suggests being hated or stored up, reminds us that our identity in God is not defined by how others treat us or our social status. Even in a list of names, each person mattered to the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This encourages us that every contribution, however small it seems, is part of God’s larger work.

When we read these lists today, we are reminded that faithfulness is often found in quiet service. Whether leading a family or serving in the temple, our lives are recorded and valued by God. We can take comfort knowing that our efforts to serve others are never overlooked.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

Asnah1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

אַסְנָ֥ה1×

Key Verses

Ezra 2:50
the children of Asnah, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephisim,

This verse identifies Asnah as the head of a family among the Nethinim, highlighting his role in the post-exilic temple service community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Asnah mean?

The name Asnah is generally interpreted as meaning 'I shall be hated' or 'she has stored up.' Some scholars also suggest a connection to the word for 'thorn-bush,' but the primary focus remains on the personal identity of this returnee.

Who were the Nethinim mentioned in Ezra?

The Nethinim were temple servants who assisted in the worship and maintenance of the temple. They were not part of the priestly lineage but played a crucial role in the religious life of the community after the Babylonian exile.

Why is Asnah listed in the Bible?

Asnah is listed to record the families that returned from exile and contributed to rebuilding Jewish life in Jerusalem. His mention highlights the diversity of the community and the inclusion of temple servants in God’s restoration plan.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Ezra 1 verse

Ezra 2:50

the children of Asnah, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephisim,