Ἄννα

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Ánna, represented by G451, is a proper name for Anna, an Israelitess. It is of Hebrew origin. The name appears only 1 times in 1 unique verses in the Bible, indicating a very specific and focused role in the biblical narrative.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its single biblical appearance, G451 identifies a specific individual at a key moment. Anna is described as a prophetess G4398 and the daughter G2364 of Phanuel G5323, from the tribe G5443 of Aser G768. The text notes her advanced years, stating she was of a great G4183 age G2250 and had lived G2198 with her husband G435 for seven G2033 years G2094 from her virginity G3932 Luke 2:36.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide a fuller picture of Anna's identity and context:

• G4398 prophētis (prophetess): This term identifies her as an inspired woman or female foreteller, highlighting her spiritual role Luke 2:36.
• G2364 thygátēr (daughter): This word establishes her lineage as a female child or descendant, connecting her to her father, Phanuel G5323 Luke 2:36.
• G5443 phylḗ (tribe): This word denotes a race or clan, specifying Anna's heritage within the tribe of Aser G768 Luke 2:36.
• G4260 probaínō (be well stricken): Used to describe her advanced years, this word means to walk forward or advance, particularly in age Luke 2:36.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G451 is found in the specific identity assigned to Anna in her single appearance.

• Prophetic Voice: Anna is explicitly identified as a prophetess G4398, a title designating her as an inspired woman Luke 2:36.
• Tribal Heritage: Her lineage is carefully noted as being of G1537 the tribe G5443 of Aser G768, connecting her to the historic structure of Israel Luke 2:36.
• Established Identity: The details of her great age G2250 and that she had lived with G3326 a husband G435 for seven years G2094 from her virginity G3932 ground her character in a specific life history Luke 2:36.

Summary

In summary, G451 Ánna is a name used just once in scripture to identify a particular Israelitess. Her identity is carefully established through her role as a prophetess G4398, her lineage as the daughter G2364 of Phanuel, and her connection to the tribe G5443 of Aser. While her appearance is brief, the details provided in the text mark her as a significant figure.