### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÔwn**, represented by `{{H204}}`, is the name for **On, a city of Egypt**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is of Egyptian derivation and is consistently associated with a specific location within Egypt, significant in the narrative of Joseph.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H204}}` appears exclusively in the book of Genesis in connection to Joseph's life in Egypt. After interpreting Pharaoh's dream, Joseph is elevated to a position of great power. As part of this elevation, Pharaoh `{{H6547}}` gives him Asenath `{{H621}}`, the daughter of Potipherah `{{H6319}}` the priest `{{H3548}}` of **On** `{{H204}}`, as a wife [[Genesis 41:45]]. This event solidifies Joseph's integration into Egyptian society. All three mentions of **On** `{{H204}}` are tied to this relationship, highlighting the birthplace of Joseph's two sons, Manasseh `{{H4519}}` and Ephraim `{{H669}}`, through their mother Asenath ([[Genesis 41:50]], [[Genesis 46:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the significance of On:
* `{{H6319}}` **Pôwṭîy Pheraʻ** (Poti-pherah): An Egyptian whose daughter, Asenath, was given to Joseph as a wife. He is identified as the **priest** `{{H3548}}` of On, linking the city directly to the Egyptian religious hierarchy [[Genesis 41:45]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): This term defines Potipherah's role in On. A priest was one who officiated in religious matters, indicating that On was a center of Egyptian worship [[Genesis 41:50]].
* `{{H3130}}` **Yôwçêph** (Joseph): The narrative of Joseph is the sole context in which On is mentioned. His marriage to the daughter of the priest of On marks a key moment in his rise to power in Egypt `{{H4714}}` [[Genesis 41:45]].
* `{{H621}}` **ʼÂçᵉnath** (Asenath): As the wife of Joseph and daughter of the priest of On, she is the direct link between the city and the lineage of two of Israel's tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim [[Genesis 46:20]].
### Theological Significance
The mention of `{{H204}}` carries significant weight in the narrative of Joseph's life:
* **Political and Social Elevation:** By marrying the daughter of the priest of **On**, a city with religious importance, Joseph is fully integrated into the upper echelon of Egyptian society. This marriage, arranged by Pharaoh, solidifies his new status and authority over the land of Egypt `{{H4714}}` [[Genesis 41:45]].
* **Genealogical Significance:** The city of **On** is the ancestral home of the mother of Ephraim and Manasseh. This establishes a direct Egyptian link in the lineage of two future tribes of Israel, highlighting God's work through non-Israelite people and places [[Genesis 46:20]].
* **Divine Providence and Blessing:** The birth of Joseph's sons from his wife Asenath occurred before the years of famine came [[Genesis 41:50]]. The connection to **On** is part of the story of God's blessing upon Joseph, providing him with a family and an heir in a foreign land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H204}}` **ʼÔwn** is more than just a place name; it is a key geographical marker in the story of God's providence. Mentioned only in relation to Joseph, the city of **On** represents his complete assimilation and rise to power within Egypt. It serves as the backdrop for his marriage and the establishment of his family, linking the lineage of Ephraim and Manasseh to the Egyptian priesthood and demonstrating how God's plan unfolds through unexpected circumstances and locations.
TRV