of uncertain derivation; Dannah, a place in Palestine; Dannah.
Transliteration:Dannâh
Pronunciation:dan-naw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1837}}` (Dannâh) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition indicates an "uncertain derivation," meaning its etymological root and inherent meaning are not discernible from the Hebrew lexicon. Therefore, it possesses no intrinsic semantic range beyond denoting a specific locality. Its sole function is to identify a particular town within the territory of ancient Israel. As a proper noun, its meaning is entirely referential, pointing to a unique geographical entity rather than conveying a concept or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1837}}` (Dannâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 15:49]]: "and Dannah, and Kirjath-sannah (which is Debir)."
This single occurrence places Dannah within the detailed enumeration of cities allotted to the tribe of Judah. Specifically, it is listed among the cities of the hill country (the Shephelah or Judean highlands) given to Judah. The context is the meticulous record of the tribal inheritances after the conquest of Canaan, demonstrating the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. Dannah is mentioned alongside other recognizable towns such as Socoh, Adullam, and Debir, providing a geographical anchor, even if its precise modern identification remains debated by scholars. The list in Joshua 15 serves as a legal and historical document, affirming the boundaries and possessions of the tribes of Israel as divinely ordained.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that `{{H1837}}` (Dannâh) is a proper noun with an uncertain derivation and only one occurrence, it does not have lexical "related words" in the sense of shared roots or synonyms. However, it is conceptually related to several significant biblical themes:
* **Geographical Allotment:** Dannah belongs to the extensive lists of cities and boundaries found throughout Joshua 13-19, which meticulously detail the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. This highlights the orderly and precise nature of the divine administration of the land.
* **Inheritance (נַחֲלָה - `{{H5159}}`):** As part of Judah's inheritance, Dannah is connected to the concept of *nachalah*, the divinely granted possession of the land, which was a cornerstone of God's covenant with Israel.
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The inclusion of specific place names like Dannah testifies to the historical reality and meticulous fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning the land of Canaan.
* **Toponymy:** While the meaning of Dannah itself is lost, its inclusion underscores the ancient Israelite practice of naming places, often reflecting historical events, geographical features, or local traditions.
### Theological Significance
Though Dannah is an obscure place name with no discernible meaning, its very presence in the biblical text carries theological weight:
* **Divine Faithfulness and Precision:** The meticulous listing of towns like Dannah in Joshua 15 underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel regarding the land. Every detail, even seemingly minor place names, attests to the precision and completeness of His divine plan.
* **Historicity of the Narrative:** The specific mention of such a town, however small or obscure, lends credibility and historicity to the biblical account of the conquest and settlement of Canaan. It roots the theological narrative in tangible geographical realities.
* **God's Sovereignty over Land:** The division of the land, including the assignment of places like Dannah, was not a human invention but a divinely ordained act. This demonstrates God's sovereign authority over the earth and His people.
* **The Inheritance of Judah:** Dannah's inclusion within Judah's inheritance highlights the specific blessings and responsibilities bestowed upon this tribe, from which the Davidic monarchy and ultimately the Messiah would emerge.
### Summary
`{{H1837}}` (Dannâh) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, identifying a specific place in the hill country allotted to the tribe of Judah. Its etymological derivation is uncertain, meaning it carries no inherent semantic meaning beyond its referential function. Appearing only once in [[Joshua 15:49]], Dannah serves as a geographical marker within the detailed account of Israel's tribal inheritances. Theologically, its significance lies not in its name's meaning, but in its inclusion within the biblical record: it stands as a testament to God's meticulous faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises, the historicity of the land division, and His sovereign ordering of the Promised Land among His people.
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