### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Chănanʼêl**, represented by `{{H2606}}`, means **"God has favored."** It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** and refers to a specific **tower** `{{H4026}}` that was part of the wall of Jerusalem `{{H3389}}`. While named for a person, its use in scripture is exclusively as a geographical landmark.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **tower** `{{H4026}}` of **Hananeel** `{{H2606}}` serves as a key reference point for the boundaries and reconstruction of Jerusalem `{{H3389}}`. In the book of Nehemiah, it is mentioned as part of the section of the wall rebuilt by Eliashib `{{H475}}` the high `{{H1419}}` priest `{{H3548}}` and his brethren `{{H251}}`, who **sanctified** `{{H6942}}` their work up to this point [[Nehemiah 3:1]]. It is also listed as a landmark passed during the procession for the dedication of the wall [[Nehemiah 12:39]]. Prophetically, both Jeremiah and Zechariah identify the tower of Hananeel as a boundary marker for a future, restored Jerusalem that will be **built** `{{H1129}}` to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` ([[Jeremiah 31:38]], [[Zechariah 14:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{H2606}}`:
* `{{H4026}}` **migdâl** (a tower): This is the structure to which the name Hananeel is applied, signifying a high or large defensive point in Jerusalem's wall [[Nehemiah 3:1]].
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): The city where the tower of Hananeel was located, providing the geographical setting for all its occurrences [[Zechariah 14:10]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word describes the action taken on the walls of Jerusalem, including the section with the tower of Hananeel, both in the historical rebuilding and in prophetic promises of restoration [[Jeremiah 31:38]].
* `{{H3968}}` **Mêʼâh** (Meah): Another tower in Jerusalem's wall, mentioned immediately alongside the tower of Hananeel in the accounts of the wall's reconstruction and dedication, indicating their proximity ([[Nehemiah 3:1]], [[Nehemiah 12:39]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2606}}` is derived from its context within Jerusalem's story of destruction and restoration.
* **A Landmark of Divine Favor:** The name itself, "God has favored," points to the overarching theme of grace. The tower stands as a physical reminder of God's restored favor upon His people and His city [[Jeremiah 31:38]].
* **Anchor of Prophetic Hope:** Its inclusion in prophecies about the future rebuilding of Jerusalem establishes it as an anchor for God's promises. It marks a boundary of a city that will be **lifted up** `{{H7213}}` and made holy to the LORD ([[Zechariah 14:10]], [[Jeremiah 31:38]]).
* **Symbol of Sanctified Work:** The tower is part of the wall section that was not just rebuilt, but **sanctified** `{{H6942}}` by the high priest Eliashib and his brethren, connecting the physical restoration with spiritual dedication [[Nehemiah 3:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **Chănanʼêl** `{{H2606}}` is more than a geographical footnote. As the name of a prominent **tower** `{{H4026}}` on Jerusalem's wall, it serves as a tangible link between history and prophecy. It marks a physical location in the accounts of Nehemiah's rebuilding efforts and stands as a symbol in the prophetic visions of Jeremiah and Zechariah for a divinely restored and favored city. The name itself, meaning "God has favored," perfectly captures the narrative of redemption and holy reconstruction in which it is found.
TRV