a primitive root; to address by an additional name; hence, to eulogize; give flattering titles, surname (himself).
Transliteration:kânâh
Pronunciation:kaw-naw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root kânâh (`{{H3655}}`) is a primitive verb, indicating a foundational concept. Its primary meaning centers on the act of "addressing by an additional name." This suggests the assignment of a secondary appellation, a title, or a nickname, distinct from one's given name. From this core, the semantic range expands to include more nuanced applications:
* **To eulogize:** When an "additional name" is bestowed, particularly one that is honorific, it naturally leads to the act of praising or commending someone.
* **To give flattering titles:** This emphasizes the laudatory, often honorific, nature of the assigned name or title. It can imply a positive, though potentially insincere, form of address.
* **To surname (oneself):** This reflexive usage highlights an individual's active choice to identify with a particular group, lineage, or characteristic by adopting a specific name or title for themselves.
Thus, kânâh encompasses the spectrum from simply assigning a secondary name to bestowing honor, expressing praise, or declaring one's own identity through an adopted name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb kânâh (`{{H3655}}`) appears a limited number of times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in prophetic and wisdom literature, each instance shedding light on its specific usage and implications.
* **[[Isaiah 44:5]]**: "One shall say, 'I am the Lord's'; another shall call himself by the name of Jacob; and another shall write on his hand, 'The Lord's,' and surname himself by the name of Israel."
* Here, kânâh is used reflexively ("surname himself"), highlighting a voluntary act of identification. In the context of Israel's restoration and the ingathering of the nations, individuals willingly declare their allegiance to Yahweh and identify with His covenant people (Jacob/Israel). This is a powerful declaration of belonging and a public affirmation of their new spiritual identity. It signifies a profound shift in allegiance and a desire to be known by God's name and associated with His chosen nation.
* **[[Job 32:21-22]]**: Elihu declares, "Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, nor give flattering titles to any man. For I know not to give flattering titles; in so doing my Maker would soon take me away."
* In this passage, kânâh is translated as "give flattering titles" or "eulogize." Elihu, asserting his impartiality and integrity, refuses to use insincere praise or honorifics. He views such flattery as a compromise of truth and an affront to God, who judges the heart. This usage underscores the potential for kânâh to describe empty or manipulative praise, contrasting sharply with the genuine declaration of identity seen in Isaiah.
These two primary contexts reveal the semantic breadth of kânâh: from sincere, covenantal identification to potentially insincere, self-serving flattery.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of kânâh (`{{H3655}}`) is illuminated by its relationship to several key biblical concepts:
* **Name (shem `{{H8034}}`):** Central to kânâh is the concept of a "name." In ancient Near Eastern thought, a name was more than a label; it often conveyed character, reputation, and destiny. kânâh specifically refers to the *additional* or *adopted* name, which carries significant weight in defining identity or conveying honor.
* **Calling/Proclaiming (qara' `{{H7121}}`):** While qara' is a broader verb meaning "to call" or "to proclaim," kânâh narrows the focus to calling *by a specific, often honorific, name or title*.
* **Praise/Glory (halal `{{H1984}}`, kavod `{{H3519}}`):** The "eulogize" aspect of kânâh connects it to the broader themes of praise and glory. However, kânâh specifically highlights the act of *naming* or *titling* as a form of commendation, rather than general acclamation.
* **Identity and Belonging:** Especially evident in [[Isaiah 44:5]], kânâh is intimately linked to the formation and declaration of personal and corporate identity, particularly in relation to one's spiritual allegiance and covenant status.
* **Integrity vs. Deception:** The usage in [[Job 32:21-22]] places kânâh in the ethical realm, contrasting genuine honor with insincere flattery, thus touching upon themes of truthfulness and moral uprightness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of kânâh (`{{H3655}}`) is profound, touching upon themes of identity, allegiance, and the nature of praise.
1. **Covenantal Identity and Allegiance:** The use of kânâh in [[Isaiah 44:5]] is deeply theological. The act of "surnaming oneself" by the name of Jacob, Israel, or the Lord signifies a transformative, willing embrace of covenant identity. This is not merely an external label but an internal, heartfelt declaration of belonging to God and His chosen people. It speaks to the ingathering of those who, whether Jew or Gentile, will willingly align themselves with Yahweh's purposes and accept His divine ownership. This voluntary adoption of a new name reflects a profound spiritual re-identification and a public testimony of faith.
2. **Authenticity in Praise and Speech:** The warning in [[Job 32:21-22]] against "giving flattering titles" provides a crucial theological and ethical counterpoint. Elihu's refusal to engage in such speech underscores the biblical emphasis on sincerity and truthfulness. Flattery, even if it uses "additional names" or praise, is condemned because it is often motivated by self-interest, seeks human favor, and lacks genuine conviction. This highlights a vital theological principle: true honor and praise must flow from a pure heart and be devoid of manipulative intent. God, who sees beyond outward appearances, values integrity over empty accolades.
3. **Divine Initiative and Human Response:** In the prophetic context of Isaiah, God's redemptive work prompts a human response. kânâh describes this response—a willing, active identification with God's name and people. This demonstrates a reciprocal relationship where divine grace elicits a human declaration of faith and allegiance.
In sum, kânâh reveals the power of naming and titling to define one's spiritual identity and express one's allegiance. Its theological import lies in distinguishing between a righteous, covenantal identification with God and His people, and the unrighteous, self-serving act of insincere flattery, thereby emphasizing the supreme value of authenticity in faith and speech.
### Summary
The Hebrew root kânâh (`{{H3655}}`) fundamentally means "to address by an additional name," with its semantic range extending to "eulogize," "give flattering titles," and "surname oneself." Its biblical occurrences provide critical insight into its usage. In [[Isaiah 44:5]], kânâh conveys a profound theological truth: individuals willingly "surname themselves" by the name of Jacob, Israel, or the Lord, signifying a transformative act of covenant allegiance and identification with God's chosen people. This denotes a sincere declaration of belonging and a new spiritual identity. Conversely, in [[Job 32:21-22]], kânâh warns against the ethical pitfall of "giving flattering titles," highlighting the importance of integrity and truthfulness in speech over insincere or manipulative praise. Theologically, kânâh thus illuminates the power of naming to define one's relationship with God and underscores the essential difference between genuine, heartfelt allegiance and superficial, self-serving commendation.
TRV