כְּנָת (ke.nat)

ke.nat

associate

H3675 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 7 verses

A:N-M

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 7 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: A:N-M

Word Overview

The Aramaic noun kenat refers to a companion or associate, appearing seven times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily within the book of Ezra. In these contexts, it describes individuals who are linked by social or professional ties, such as fellow workers or neighbors involved in communal activities.

Lexical sources identify this term as an Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew kenah (H3674), which also means associate. The word carries a neutral sense of partnership or connection, focusing on the relational bond between people rather than any specific emotional depth. It appears in passages describing groups acting together, such as those assisting with the rebuilding efforts.

Its usage highlights the importance of community and cooperation in post-exilic Judah. By identifying who stands alongside whom, the text underscores the collective nature of their tasks. The term remains straightforward, denoting a practical association without implying hierarchy or deep intimacy beyond shared purpose.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When we read about the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls in Ezra, the text often lists groups of people acting together. The word for 'companions' or 'associates' appears repeatedly to describe these teams. It reminds us that significant work is rarely done alone. Whether it was officials coordinating across regions or neighbors helping with construction, the narrative highlights a practical partnership.

This concept invites us to look at our own lives and the people around us. We are often part of a larger group, working toward a shared goal. The Bible does not always focus on deep emotional bonds in these passages; instead, it shows how ordinary people cooperate to achieve what seems impossible individually. This reflects a simple truth: community is essential for stability and progress.

As you navigate your own responsibilities, consider the value of those who stand alongside you. These 'associates' may not always be close friends, but they are vital partners in the tasks God has placed before us. Recognizing their role helps us appreciate the collective effort required to build something lasting and meaningful.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.

and/ associates/ their4×
associates/ their2×
and/ associates/ his1×

Forms in the text

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

וּ/כְנָוָתְ/ה֑וֹן3×
כְּנָוָתְ/ה֑וֹן1×
כְּנָוָ֣תְ/ה֔וֹן1×
וּ/כְנָוָ֣תְ/ה֔וֹן1×
וּ/כְנָ֣וָתֵ֔/הּ1×

Key Verses

Ezra 4:9
Then Rehum the chancellor, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions, the Dinaites, and the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehaites, the Elamites,

This verse lists the various ethnic groups who served as companions to Rehum, showing how political alliances were formed across different cultures.
Ezra 4:23
Then when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter was read before Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went in haste to Jerusalem to the Jews, and made them to cease by force of arms.

Here, the companions act together with their leaders to stop the Jewish work, illustrating how shared purpose can drive collective opposition.
Ezra 6:6
Now therefore, Tattenai, governor beyond the River, Shetharbozenai, and your companions the Apharsachites, who are beyond the River, you must stay far from there.

The king addresses Tattenai and his companions directly, indicating that administrative decisions were made by these connected groups rather than individuals alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word kenat mean?

The word kenat (or its Aramaic form) refers to an associate, companion, or colleague. It describes people who are linked by social ties, professional duties, or shared activities. The term focuses on the practical connection between individuals rather than deep emotional intimacy.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

This term appears seven times in the Hebrew Bible, all within the book of Ezra. It is used to describe groups of officials, neighbors, or workers who are acting together during the post-exilic period.

How is kenat different from a close friend?

While 'friend' often implies deep personal affection, kenat emphasizes a functional relationship. It describes people who work together or live near each other and share a common purpose. The bond is based on association rather than emotional closeness.

Every Occurrence (7 verses across 1 books)

Ezra 7 verses

Ezra 4:9

Then Rehum the chancellor, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions, the Dinaites, and the…

Ezra 4:17

Then the king sent an answer to Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions…

Ezra 4:23

Then when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter was read before Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they…

Ezra 5:3

At the same time Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, came to them, with Shetharbozenai and their companions, and…

Ezra 5:6

The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and Shetharbozenai, and his companions the…

Ezra 6:6

Now therefore, Tattenai, governor beyond the River, Shetharbozenai, and your companions the Apharsachites, who are…

Ezra 6:13

Then Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, Shetharbozenai, and their companions did accordingly with all diligence,…