### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chănamʼêl**, represented by `{{H2601}}`, is the name of an Israelite, Hanameel. According to usage statistics, this name appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, all within a single narrative in the book of Jeremiah. The name is believed to be an orthographical variation of Hananeel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Hanameel's `{{H2601}}` role in the biblical narrative is specific and significant. He is identified as the son `{{H1121}}` of Shallum `{{H7967}}`, who is Jeremiah's uncle `{{H1730}}` [[Jeremiah 32:7]]. The LORD `{{H3068}}` first prophesies to Jeremiah that Hanameel will come to him in the court `{{H2691}}` of the prison `{{H4307}}` to offer him a field `{{H7704}}` in Anathoth `{{H6068}}`. This offer is based on Jeremiah's legal "right `{{H4941}}` of redemption `{{H1353}}`" [[Jeremiah 32:7]]. Hanameel's subsequent arrival and offer confirm God's word `{{H1697}}` to the prophet [[Jeremiah 32:8]]. Jeremiah then buys `{{H7069}}` the field for seventeen `{{H7651}}``{{H6235}}` shekels `{{H8255}}` of silver `{{H3701}}` and finalizes the purchase `{{H4736}}` in the presence of witnesses `{{H5707}}`, including Hanameel himself ([[Jeremiah 32:9]], [[Jeremiah 32:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The story of Hanameel involves several key terms related to kinship, law, and property:
* `{{H1730}}` **dôwd** (uncle): This word establishes the specific familial relationship between Jeremiah and Hanameel, which is the basis for the legal transaction. It is defined as a father's brother or, more broadly, a beloved friend or lover.
* `{{H1353}}` **gᵉʼullâh** (redemption): This term signifies the right of redemption, including the object of that right. Hanameel explicitly states that this right belongs to Jeremiah, compelling him to make the purchase ([[Jeremiah 32:7]], [[Jeremiah 32:8]]).
* `{{H7069}}` **qânâh** (buy): A primitive root meaning to procure, often by purchase, and by implication to own or possess. This action is the central event of the narrative, as Jeremiah is commanded to buy the field [[Jeremiah 32:7]] and then does so [[Jeremiah 32:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of this event is demonstrated in several ways:
* **Confirmation of Prophetic Word:** The LORD's `{{H3068}}` foretelling of Hanameel's arrival serves as a direct confirmation of His message to Jeremiah. When Hanameel appears exactly as predicted, Jeremiah states, "Then I knew `{{H3045}}` that this was the word `{{H1697}}` of the LORD" [[Jeremiah 32:8]].
* **Obedience Amidst Crisis:** Jeremiah's act of purchasing land occurs while he is confined to the court `{{H2691}}` of the prison `{{H4307}}` [[Jeremiah 32:8]]. His obedience to buy `{{H7069}}` a field `{{H7704}}` is a profound act of faith in God's command during a time of national siege and personal imprisonment.
* **Upholding Legal and Familial Right:** The transaction hinges on the established legal "right `{{H4941}}` of inheritance `{{H3425}}`" and "redemption `{{H1353}}`" [[Jeremiah 32:8]]. This underscores the importance of the laws and customs that governed kinship and land possession in Israel, which were instituted by God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2601}}` **Chănamʼêl** is not a prominent figure in his own right, but rather a crucial participant in a prophetic act orchestrated by God. His appearance and the subsequent land purchase serve as a living parable. The narrative illustrates the sovereignty of God, the verification of His word to His prophets, and the importance of obedience even when circumstances appear to contradict the logic of the command. Hanameel's role is instrumental in demonstrating these divine principles through a tangible, legally binding event.
TRV