יַבְנֶה (yav.neh)
yav.neh
Jabneh
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The noun yav.neh refers to Jabneh, a Philistine city whose name means "building of God." It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in 2 Chronicles 26:6. This single occurrence records King Uzziah expanding his influence by fortifying structures in the area.
Lexical sources note that this place is also known as Jabneel (H2995), suggesting a close geographical or administrative link between the two sites. The etymology highlights a theme of construction or establishment, fitting for a city noted for its defensive works during the reign of Uzziah.
While the text does not elaborate on the daily life of Jabneh, its mention underscores the political tensions of the era. The fortification efforts described reflect the broader struggle between Judah and its Philistine neighbors for control over strategic settlements in the coastal plain.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Jabneh carries the meaning "building of God," a title that resonates with the human desire to create lasting structures. In 2 Chronicles 26:6, King Uzziah is recorded breaking down its walls and then building cities in the region. This historical detail reminds us that while human efforts to fortify our lives or establish security are real, they exist within a larger divine narrative.
For your faith journey, this word invites reflection on what we choose to build. Whether it is a career, a relationship, or a personal legacy, the act of construction is significant. It encourages us to consider whether our foundations rest on temporary strength or on enduring principles. The history of Jabneh shows that places and plans change, but the call to build wisely remains constant.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Jabneh1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יַבְנֵ֔ה1×
Key Verses
-
II Chronicles 26:6
He went out and fought against the Philistines, and broke down the wall of Gath, the wall of Jabneh, and the wall of Ashdod; and he built cities in the country of Ashdod, and among the Philistines.
This verse uniquely links the city's name to King Uzziah's military campaign against the Philistines, highlighting the tension between destruction and construction in that era.