### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition indicates it is "for `{{H3639}}`," suggesting it is either an alternative spelling or a closely associated location of the city known as Kalneh or Calneh. The term refers to a place situated within the region of Assyria, thereby situating it squarely within the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. As a proper noun, its semantic range is inherently narrow, referring exclusively to this specific geographical entity rather than possessing a broader conceptual or abstract meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the prophetic book of Ezekiel.
* **[[Ezekiel 27:23]]**: "Haran, Canneh, Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad were your merchants; they traded with you in choice garments, in embroidered clothes, and in multicolored rugs, in strong cord, and in cedar chests."
This verse is part of Ezekiel's lamentation over Tyre, a powerful maritime city renowned for its extensive trade network. In this passage, Kanneh is listed among the various nations and cities that engaged in commerce with Tyre, specifically trading in luxury goods. Its inclusion in such a detailed list underscores its significance as a recognized trading hub or region within the broader Mesopotamian sphere, particularly in relation to the Assyrian Empire. The context places Kanneh geographically among other well-known ancient Near Eastern locations, reinforcing its identity as a tangible and economically active entity in the ancient world.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Strong's definition explicitly links `{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) to `{{H3639}}` (Kalneh/Calneh). This connection is crucial for understanding its identity.
* **`{{H3639}}` (Kalneh/Calneh)**: This city is mentioned in [[Genesis 10:10]] as one of the primary cities of Nimrod's kingdom in the land of Shinar (Babylonia), alongside Babel, Erech, and Accad. It also appears in [[Amos 6:2]], where the prophet challenges the complacency of Samaria by comparing its fate to that of Calneh, Hamath, and Gath, implying Calneh's historical prominence and eventual downfall.
The precise relationship between `{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) and `{{H3639}}` (Kalneh) is a subject of scholarly discussion. Some scholars propose they are identical, with Kanneh being a variant spelling or a later designation of the same city. Others suggest Kanneh might be a different but related location. Regardless, the association points to a connection with significant urban centers in Mesopotamia/Assyria.
Conceptually, the word relates to the broader themes of ancient Near Eastern geography, international trade routes, the vast reach of the Assyrian Empire, and the economic interconnectedness of nations in the biblical period.
### Theological Significance
As a specific geographical place name, `{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) does not carry an inherent theological meaning in the same way that terms like "covenant" or "holiness" do. Its theological significance primarily lies in its contribution to the broader fabric of biblical revelation:
* **Accuracy and Detail of Prophecy**: The inclusion of such a specific, albeit briefly mentioned, location within Ezekiel's detailed prophecy concerning Tyre demonstrates the meticulousness and comprehensive nature of divine knowledge. God's prophetic word is not vague but grounded in the tangible realities of the ancient world, lending credibility and authority to the divine pronouncements.
* **Scope of Divine Sovereignty**: Kanneh's appearance in a list of trading partners highlights the interconnectedness of nations and their commercial activities. Even in their worldly pursuits, these nations and cities are not outside the purview of God's sovereign plan. The judgment pronounced upon Tyre, and implicitly upon its trading partners, underscores that all nations, their economies, and their dealings are ultimately accountable to the Lord.
* **Historical Context**: The mention of Kanneh contributes to the rich historical and geographical tapestry of the biblical narrative, affirming the Bible's engagement with real-world events and places, thereby grounding its theological truths in concrete historical contexts.
### Summary
`{{H3656}}` (Kanneh) is a Hebrew proper noun designating a specific place in Assyria, likely a variant or related location to `{{H3639}}` (Kalneh/Calneh). It appears only once in the Bible, in [[Ezekiel 27:23]], where it is listed as one of Tyre's trading partners, emphasizing its economic relevance in the ancient Near East. While not possessing an intrinsic theological meaning, its inclusion in prophecy underscores the Bible's historical accuracy, the detailed precision of divine revelation, and the comprehensive scope of God's sovereignty over all nations and their affairs.
TRV