from חָנָה; properly, a vault or cell (with an arch); by implication, a prison; cabin.
Transliteration:chânûwth
Pronunciation:khaw-nooth'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חָנוּת (chânûwth, `{{H2588}}`) is derived from the verbal root חָנָה (chânâh, `{{H2583}}`), which fundamentally means "to encamp," "to pitch a tent," or "to lay siege." This etymological link suggests a connection to an enclosed or designated space, whether temporary for dwelling or for the purpose of confinement.
Properly, חָנוּת refers to "a vault or cell (with an arch)," indicating a constructed, often subterranean or semi-subterranean, chamber characterized by an arched ceiling. By implication, such a cell served as a "prison," a place of literal and severe confinement. The broader semantic range includes "cabin," suggesting a small, enclosed dwelling or compartment. However, the primary biblical usage leans decisively towards the more restrictive sense of a place of incarceration, emphasizing its narrow and confining nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חָנוּת (chânûwth, `{{H2588}}`) is notably rare, appearing only once within the entire Hebrew Bible. This singular occurrence is found in the book of Jeremiah:
* [[Jeremiah 37:16]]: "When Jeremiah had entered the dungeon cells (חָנוּת), and the cisterns, and Jeremiah had remained there many days."
In this pivotal verse, חָנוּת precisely identifies the location of the prophet Jeremiah's imprisonment. The context details Jeremiah's arrest by Judean officials, who accuse him of desertion to the Babylonians. He is subsequently cast into "dungeon cells," explicitly linked with "cisterns" (which were often repurposed as dark, damp, and inescapable prisons). The use of חָנוּת here vividly conveys the harsh, confined, and oppressive conditions of Jeremiah's detention. It underscores the severity of his plight, emphasizing the small, enclosed, and likely vaulted nature of his holding cell, consistent with the "vault or cell" aspect of its core definition.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to חָנוּת is its root, חָנָה (chânâh, `{{H2583}}`), which speaks to the act of "pitching" or "settling" in a designated, often enclosed, space. While חָנָה frequently describes military encampments or the temporary dwellings of nomadic peoples, its derivative חָנוּת applies this concept to a fixed, and often restrictive, architectural structure.
Other Hebrew words that convey concepts of imprisonment or confinement include:
* בּוֹר (bôr, `{{H953}}`): "pit," "cistern," or "dungeon," often used interchangeably or in conjunction with חָנוּת to describe places of severe confinement, as seen in [[Jeremiah 37:16]].
* מַסְגֵּר (masgêr, `{{H4525}}`): A more general term for a "prison" or "jail."
* בֵּית הָאֲסוּרִים (bêyth hā’ăsûrîm, `{{H1004}}` and `{{H631}}`): Literally "house of prisoners," a common designation for a prison facility.
The overarching concept is one of confinement, which in biblical narrative often serves as a crucible for testing faith, a consequence of sin, or a stage for divine intervention.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of חָנוּת (chânûwth, `{{H2588}}`) within the narrative of Jeremiah's suffering carries profound theological weight. It serves as a stark and poignant symbol of the hardship and persecution faced by God's faithful prophets who deliver unpopular truths in a rebellious world. The "vaulted cell" becomes more than a physical space; it represents the world's rejection of divine revelation and the cost of unwavering obedience.
Theologically, Jeremiah's confinement in a חָנוּת illuminates several crucial themes:
1. **The Nature of Prophetic Suffering:** It vividly illustrates the personal sacrifice and physical hardship often endured by those called to speak God's word, highlighting that faithfulness can lead to imprisonment and affliction.
2. **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Adversity:** Even within the narrow, oppressive confines of a prison cell, God's purposes for Jeremiah remained unbroken. The word of the Lord could not be bound, even if its messenger was. This speaks to God's absolute sovereignty and His ability to sustain and work through His servants regardless of their circumstances.
3. **Resilience in Confinement:** The חָנוּת signifies a place of extreme vulnerability and isolation, yet Jeremiah's continued prophetic activity and endurance from within it testify to the divine strength and resilience granted to those who trust in the Lord.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חָנוּת (chânûwth, `{{H2588}}`) denotes a "vaulted cell" or "cabin," primarily understood as a "prison" due to its sole biblical occurrence. Derived from חָנָה (chânâh, `{{H2583}}`), "to encamp," it signifies an enclosed and often restrictive space. Its singular appearance in [[Jeremiah 37:16]] powerfully depicts the prophet Jeremiah's imprisonment in harsh, confined conditions. Theologically, חָנוּת serves as a potent symbol of the suffering inherent in prophetic ministry, while simultaneously underscoring God's unwavering presence and the enduring power of His word, even when His messenger is physically confined. It stands as a testament to the human opposition to divine truth and the steadfast faithfulness required of God's servants.
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