### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Zânôwach**, represented by `{{H2182}}`, is defined as **rejected**. It is the name of two places in Palestine, known as **Zanoah**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently referring to these locations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2182}}` is identified as a town within the territory of Judah ([[Joshua 15:34]], [[Joshua 15:56]]). It is mentioned in a genealogy where Jekuthiel is named the "father of **Zanoah**" [[1 Chronicles 4:18]], establishing its roots in a specific lineage. Later, after the exile, the inhabitants of **Zanoah** are noted for their role in rebuilding Jerusalem's defenses under Nehemiah. They repaired the Valley Gate, setting up its doors, locks, and bars [[Nehemiah 3:13]]. The town is also listed among the places resettled by the people of Judah, in an area that stretched from Beersheba to the valley of Hinnom [[Nehemiah 11:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context in which Zanoah appears:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh**: a primitive root meaning **to build**. The inhabitants of Zanoah are recorded to have **built** the Valley Gate [[Nehemiah 3:13]]. The concept is central to scripture, as seen in the statement, "Except the LORD **build** the house, they labour in vain that **build** it" [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H1280}}` **bᵉrîyach**: This word for a **bar** or bolt signifies security and fortification. The work at the Valley Gate included setting up its **bars** [[Nehemiah 3:13]]. God is praised for having "strengthened the **bars** of thy gates" [[Psalms 147:13]].
* `{{H4514}}` **manʻûwl**: A term for a **lock**. The people of Zanoah installed the **locks** on the Valley Gate [[Nehemiah 3:13]], a detail also recorded in the rebuilding of other gates like the fish gate and dung gate ([[Nehemiah 3:3]], [[Nehemiah 3:14]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H2182}}` is demonstrated through its placement in key historical accounts.
* **Participation in Restoration:** The most detailed account involving Zanoah shows its people actively participating in the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Their work on the Valley Gate signifies a communal commitment to rebuilding the nation's spiritual and physical center [[Nehemiah 3:13]].
* **Part of the Covenant Land:** Zanoah's inclusion in the list of towns allotted to the tribe of Judah establishes it as part of the promised inheritance [[Joshua 15:34]]. Its later mention as an inhabited town confirms its endurance as a community within Israel [[Nehemiah 11:30]].
* **Grounded in Lineage:** By identifying Jekuthiel as the "father of Zanoah," the Bible ties the physical place to a personal history, reinforcing the importance of ancestry and founders in the identity of Israelite communities [[1 Chronicles 4:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2182}}` **Zanoah** functions as more than a simple geographical marker. While appearing only a few times, it is consistently presented in contexts of inheritance, lineage, and, most importantly, active participation in the national renewal. The record of its inhabitants rebuilding a section of Jerusalem's wall illustrates its role as a faithful community contributing to the security and restoration of God's people.
TRV