צְנָן (tse.nan)
tse.nan
Zenan
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The proper noun tse.nan, rendered as Zenan in English Bibles, appears only once in the Hebrew Scriptures, within the list of conquered cities in Joshua 12:20. The name translates to "pointed," likely describing a geographical feature such as a sharp peak or a distinctively shaped hill in the region.
This location is situated in the Shephelah, the lowland area between the coastal plain and the Judean hills. Its inclusion in Joshua’s victory record highlights the extent of Israelite control over this strategic territory during the initial conquest period. The brevity of its mention underscores its role as one of many specific sites claimed for Judah.
As a place name, Zenan serves primarily as a marker of territorial division rather than a site of major narrative events. Its single occurrence anchors it firmly in the historical geography of Joshua’s campaigns, reminding readers of the detailed accounting of land distribution that characterizes this section of the biblical text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Zenan appears in the Bible as a place name, specifically listed among the cities assigned to the tribe of Judah. Its meaning, likely "pointed," suggests a location defined by a distinct geographical feature like a sharp hill or peak. This detail reminds us that God’s promises were fulfilled in very real, physical places.
For your faith, this small entry highlights the precision of God's word. The biblical record does not skip over minor details; it accounts for every town and landmark. This care shows that God is attentive to the specifics of history and geography, ensuring that His covenant with Israel was established on solid ground.
When you read these lists, consider how God’s faithfulness extends to the smallest parts of His plan. Just as He marked out Zenan for Judah, He knows the specific circumstances of your life. You can trust that the same God who kept track of every city is also mindful of your daily walk with Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Zenan1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צְנָ֥ן1×
Key Verses
-
Joshua 15:37
Zenan, Hadashah, Migdal Gad,
This verse places Zenan in the inheritance list for Judah, confirming its role as a specific territorial marker rather than a site of narrative action.