The Hebrew word kannâh, represented by H3657, is a specific term for a plant, used idiomatically to mean vineyard. It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from the root H3661 kânan, which means to set out or plant.
In its sole biblical appearance, H3657 is found within a plea for God to look upon and restore his people, who are described metaphorically as a vineyard. The passage beseeches God to care for the vineyard that His own "right hand hath planted" Psalms 80:15. The term is set in parallel with "the branch that thou madest strong for thyself," directly connecting the idea of a divinely established people with God's sustaining power and purpose.
Several related words from its context help illuminate its meaning:
- H3661 kânan (to set out, i.e. plant): This primitive root is the direct source of kannâh. Its meaning, "to set out, i.e. plant," underpins the concept of the vineyard as something intentionally established by God Psalms 80:15.
- H5193 nâṭaʻ (to plant): This word appears in the same verse, describing the action of planting the vineyard. It is used both literally and figuratively throughout scripture to convey the act of establishing something, whether it be a people, a kingdom, or the heavens themselves (Psalms 80:15, 2 Samuel 7:10).
- H1121 bên (son, branch): Used in parallel with kannâh in Psalms 80:15, this word is translated as "branch." It focuses the metaphor from the collective vineyard to a specific descendant or entity that God has strengthened, linking the nation's existence to God's direct cultivation.
- H553 ʼâmats (be courageous, strengthen): This term describes what God did for the "branch" in the passage, making it strong for Himself. It signifies fortification and establishment, often used as an encouragement to be of "good courage" because God strengthens His people (Psalms 80:15, Joshua 1:9).
The theological weight of H3657 is concentrated in its single, poignant usage.
- Divine Initiative and Ownership: The use of kannâh in the context of being "planted" by God's "right hand" highlights the theological principle that God's people are His own creation and possession Psalms 80:15. He is the sole founder and establisher.
- Metaphor for Israel: The term functions as a powerful metaphor for the nation of Israel. Like a vineyard, the people were chosen, planted, and intended to be cared for by God, a theme supported by the associated word for planting, H5193, which is elsewhere used for establishing God's people in their land 2 Samuel 7:10.
- Basis for Covenantal Appeal: The word is used within a lament, forming the foundation of an appeal to God. By identifying Israel as the vineyard He Himself planted, the psalmist calls upon God's faithfulness to preserve the work of His own hands.
In summary, H3657 kannâh is a highly specific term whose entire biblical significance is derived from its single appearance. While literally meaning a plant, it is used idiomatically as vineyard to create a potent metaphor in Psalms 80:15. It encapsulates the ideas of divine creation, ownership, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. Its usage serves as a powerful reminder that what God's hand has planted, He is called upon to protect and sustain.
TRV