### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gânan**, represented by `{{H1598}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to hedge about, i.e. (generally) protect; defend**. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically describes an act of defensive protection, often performed by God on behalf of His people and city.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1598}}` is consistently used to describe the LORD's promise to protect Jerusalem. The phrase "I will **defend** this city" is a recurring promise from God, found in contexts of imminent threat, such as the siege by the king of Assyria ([[2 Kings 19:34]]; [[2 Kings 20:6]]; [[Isaiah 37:35]]; [[Isaiah 38:6]]). The protection is not limited to the city itself but extends to its people, as the LORD promises he "shall **defend** the inhabitants of Jerusalem" [[Zechariah 12:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature and purpose of the defense offered by `{{H1598}}`:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: The agent who consistently performs the act of defending `{{H1598}}` is the LORD, the self-Existent or Eternal God [[Zechariah 12:8]].
* `{{H3467}}` **yâshaʻ** (to free or succor; save): This word often appears with `{{H1598}}` to state the purpose of the defense. God will **defend** the city "to **save** it" ([[2 Kings 19:34]]; [[Isaiah 37:35]]).
* `{{H5337}}` **nâtsal** (to snatch away; deliver, rescue, save): This term is paired with `{{H1598}}` to show the active result of God's protection. In defending Jerusalem, God also promises to **deliver** it [[Isaiah 31:5]].
* `{{H4422}}` **mâlaṭ** (to release or rescue; preserve, save): Used alongside `{{H1598}}` and `{{H5337}}`, this word completes a picture of total security. God's action is described as: "defending also he will deliver it; and passing over he will **preserve** it" [[Isaiah 31:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1598}}` is centered on God's active role as a divine protector.
* **Divine Intervention:** The use of `{{H1598}}` almost exclusively describes a direct action by God. It is the LORD `{{H3068}}` who **defends** His people, often pictured with powerful imagery, such as "As birds flying" [[Isaiah 31:5]] or as a warrior who enables the feeble to be like David [[Zechariah 12:8]].
* **Covenant Loyalty:** God's motivation for defending the city is explicitly stated as being "for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake" ([[2 Kings 19:34]]; [[2 Kings 20:6]]; [[Isaiah 37:35]]). This connects the act of protection directly to God's unwavering faithfulness to His own name and His covenant promises.
* **Comprehensive Deliverance:** The word is frequently part of a chain of protective actions. The act of defending `{{H1598}}` is linked to delivering `{{H5337}}` and preserving `{{H4422}}`, showing that God's protection is a complete and multi-faceted salvation from threats [[Isaiah 31:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1598}}` **gânan** is more than a simple word for defense; it is a theological statement about God's personal and powerful protection. Its repeated use in the context of saving Jerusalem highlights God's role as the ultimate guardian of His people. The word illustrates that God's defense is rooted in His covenant faithfulness and results in a comprehensive deliverance from danger.
TRV