probably from חָנַן; favored; Channathon, a place in Palestine; Hannathon.
Transliteration:Channâthôn
Pronunciation:khan-naw-thone'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma חַנָּתֹן (Channâthôn), transliterated as Channathon or Hannathon, is a proper noun referring to a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root חָנַן (chanan), Strong's `{{H2580}}`, meaning "to be gracious," "to show favor," or "to pity." Therefore, the name Channathon itself carries the semantic implication of "favored" or "gracious place." Unlike common nouns or verbs, a proper noun's semantic range is primarily confined to its etymological meaning and its referent. In this case, the name suggests a place that was perhaps considered blessed, prosperous, or subject to divine favor, or perhaps a place named in gratitude for favor received.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Channathon appears in the Hebrew Bible exclusively in the book of Joshua, specifically in the delineation of tribal boundaries. It is mentioned once:
* [[Joshua 19:14]]: "Then the boundary turned to the north to Hannathon, and its termination was at the Valley of Iphtah-el."
This verse describes the northern border of the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun. Channathon serves as a key landmark in defining this tribal inheritance. Its inclusion in such a precise geographical description underscores its significance as a known and identifiable location in ancient Israel. The meticulous detail in Joshua's account of land distribution highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel, assigning each tribe its portion. While the text does not elaborate on *why* this place was called "favored," its presence within the divinely appointed land of Zebulun implicitly connects it to God's providential care for His people. Archaeological efforts have sought to identify its precise location, often placing it in the Lower Galilee region, possibly at Khirbet el-Baddawīyeh (Tel Hannaton), east of Acco.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root חָנַן (chanan), `{{H2580}}`, from which Channathon is derived. This root is fundamental to understanding the concept of grace and favor in the Old Testament. Derivatives include:
* חֵן (chen), `{{H2580}}`: "favor," "grace," "charm." This noun frequently describes the favor shown by God to humans (e.g., [[Genesis 6:8]], Noah finding favor in the eyes of the Lord) or by humans to one another.
* חִנָּם (chinnam), `{{H2600}}`: "without cause," "for nothing," "gratis." This adverb often denotes something given or received freely, without merit or cost.
* חַנּוּן (channun), `{{H2587}}`: "gracious," "merciful." This adjective is frequently used to describe God's character (e.g., [[Exodus 34:6]], "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious...").
The connection of Channathon to this semantic field of "favor" and "grace" suggests a theological undercurrent. The naming of a place as "favored" could reflect a human recognition of divine blessing upon that location or its inhabitants, or perhaps an aspiration for such blessing.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Channathon, as a place name rooted in "favor," is primarily indirect but profound.
1. **Divine Providence and Land Allotment:** The very existence of a place named "Favored" within the divinely ordained boundaries of Zebulun speaks to God's meticulous and gracious provision for His people. The land of Canaan was a gift of grace, and each tribal inheritance, including the landmarks like Channathon, was a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises.
2. **The Nature of God's Grace:** While Channathon itself does not teach a doctrine, its etymology points to the foundational biblical concept of *ḥēn* (grace/favor). God is consistently portrayed as the source of all favor, whether it is favor for individuals (Noah, Joseph) or for an entire nation (Israel). The name serves as a subtle reminder that even geographical features can bear witness to this divine attribute.
3. **Human Acknowledgment of Favor:** The act of naming a place "Channathon" might reflect a human acknowledgment of the favor experienced there—perhaps a productive agricultural region, a strategically advantageous location, or a place where a significant blessing occurred. This would align with the biblical practice of naming places to commemorate events or attributes (e.g., Bethel, "House of God"; Ebenezer, "Stone of Help").
### Summary
Channathon (חַנָּתֹן, `{{H2615}}`) is a proper noun, a place name in ancient Israel, meaning "favored" or "gracious place," derived from the Hebrew root חָנַן (`{{H2580}}`), "to be gracious" or "to show favor." It appears once in the Bible, in [[Joshua 19:14]], where it marks the northern boundary of the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun. Its inclusion in the precise geographical descriptions of the Promised Land underscores God's faithful and meticulous provision for His people. Though a specific place name, its etymology connects it to the broader biblical theme of divine grace and favor, a fundamental attribute of God. The name subtly suggests a place that was, or was perceived to be, blessed by God's hand, serving as a quiet testament to God's providential care in the distribution of the land of promise.
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