עֲנָק (a.naq)
a.naq
neck; necklace
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun ‘ănaq primarily denotes a necklace or neck pendant, appearing most frequently in poetic contexts like Song of Solomon and Proverbs to describe adornment. In these passages, it serves as a concrete image of beauty and value, often paired with other jewelry to paint a vivid picture of elegance. For instance, the beloved’s neck is compared to an ivory tower adorned with this type of ornamentation (Song of Solomon 7:4), highlighting its aesthetic significance in ancient Israelite culture.
Less commonly, the term refers to the physical neck itself, particularly in descriptive epithets for people. The sources note its use in describing the Anakim, a group of tall, imposing figures associated with Hebron and Philistia (Deuteronomy 2:10-11; Joshua 11:21-22). Here, the word emphasizes their stature or perhaps their proud bearing, linking physical presence to a reputation for strength. This usage shows how the term bridges the gap between an object worn around the neck and the body part it encircles.
Its root likely connects to concepts of binding or encircling, reflecting how jewelry fits snugly around the neck. Translators often render it as "necklace" in poetic texts but may use "neck" when referring to anatomy or group names. The dual meaning—adornment versus body part—depends entirely on context, illustrating how ancient Hebrew vocabulary could shift focus between what is worn and what is worn upon.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ănaq points to something worn close to the body, whether as a necklace or simply the neck itself. In Proverbs 1:9, it appears as chains around the neck, symbolizing wisdom that adorns a person with grace. This image suggests that learning and understanding are not burdens but beautiful gifts that enhance our character.
Similarly, in Song of Solomon 4:9, the term highlights intimacy and value. The beloved is described using imagery of jewelry, showing how physical beauty can reflect deeper affection. These verses remind us that what we carry—whether knowledge or love—should bring honor and joy to our lives.
When we consider this word, it invites us to think about what we hold dear. Just as a necklace sits close to the heart, so too should truth and kindness remain near in our daily walk. May your life reflect the beauty of wisdom and the warmth of genuine connection.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ necklaces1×
- necklace1×
- and/ necklaces1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עֲנָ֖ק1×
- וַ֝/עֲנָקִ֗ים1×
- הָ֣/עֲנָק֔וֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 1:9
for they will be a garland to grace your head, and chains around your neck.
This verse uses 'chains around your neck' to illustrate how wisdom serves as a graceful adornment rather than a restriction.
-
Song of Solomon 4:9
You have ravished my heart, my sister, my bride. You have ravished my heart with one of your eyes, with one chain of your neck.
Here the term emphasizes intimate affection, linking the beloved's charm to the beauty of jewelry worn near the heart.
-
Judges 8:26
The weight of the golden earrings that he requested was one thousand and seven hundred shekels of gold, in addition to the crescents, and the pendants, and the purple clothing that was on the kings of Midian, and in addition to the chains that were about their camels’ necks.
The word appears among spoils of war, listing pendants alongside other ornaments to show the wealth and status associated with such items.