### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼănachnûw**, represented by `{{H587}}`, is the primary pronoun for **we**, **us**, or **ourselves**. Though it only appears 6 times in 6 unique verses, its usage is significant, establishing a sense of collective identity, responsibility, and relationship with God. It gives voice to a community acting or speaking as a single entity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H587}}` defines a group's position in critical moments. It is used by divine messengers to declare their unified mission of judgment, stating "**we** will destroy this place" [[Genesis 19:13]]. Conversely, it is used by humanity to express total dependence on God in the face of overwhelming odds, as when Jehoshaphat prays, "neither know **we** what to do: but our eyes are upon thee" [[2 Chronicles 20:12]]. The term also solidifies covenant identity, with Moses declaring that God's covenant was made directly "with **us**, even us, who are all of us here alive this day" [[Deuteronomy 5:3]], emphasizing the immediate and corporate nature of the relationship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context in which a collective "we" speaks or acts:
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (might, strength, power): This word often appears in contexts where a group's ability is being assessed. It is used to contrast human weakness with divine power, as in the declaration, "**we** have no **might**" [[2 Chronicles 20:12]], which precedes reliance on God, who gives **power** to the faint [[Isaiah 40:29]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): This term describes the awareness or understanding of the group. The collective cry, "neither **know** we what to do" [[2 Chronicles 20:12]], highlights a shared state of desperation that requires divine guidance. This stands in contrast to God's perfect knowledge, who says "For I **know** the thoughts that I think toward you" [[Jeremiah 29:11]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This word relates to the actions taken by the collective. It can express the group's uncertainty about what action to take [[2 Chronicles 20:12]] or the grave consequences of a potential collective action [[Jeremiah 26:19]]. Ultimately, right action is defined by God, who requires man "to **do** justly" [[Micah 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H587}}` lies in its ability to express the corporate nature of faith and responsibility.
* **Shared Dependence:** The pronoun is powerfully used in moments of collective confession and helplessness. The prayer in [[2 Chronicles 20:12]], "**we** have no might," is a quintessential expression of a community recognizing its complete reliance on God for deliverance.
* **Covenantal Identity:** The word solidifies the group's standing in God's covenant. In [[Deuteronomy 5:3]], "**us**" refers to the living generation of Israel, binding them together as direct participants in the covenant relationship established by the Lord.
* **Collective Action and Responsibility:** The term is used to declare a unified commitment, such as when the tribes of Israel state, "**we ourselves** will go ready armed" to fulfill their duty [[Numbers 32:17]]. It also expresses a shared accountability for potential sin, as the elders warn that "**we** might procure great evil against our souls" [[Jeremiah 26:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H587}}` does more than simply denote a group. It is a word that forges a unified identity, whether in mission, desperation, or covenant. It shifts the focus from the individual to the community, highlighting that in scripture, accountability, devotion, and relationship with God are often expressed with a collective voice. From the cry of a desperate nation to the vow of a unified army, **ʼănachnûw** articulates the profound truth that people stand together before God.
TRV