for plural of עַיִן; fountains; Anim, a place in Palestine; Anim.
Transliteration:ʻÂnîym
Pronunciation:aw-neem'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H6044 (ʻÂnîym, עָנִים) functions as a proper noun, specifically a place name. Its etymology is deeply rooted in the Hebrew word `{{H5869}}` (ʻayin, עַיִן), which primarily means "eye," but also commonly refers to a "spring" or "fountain" of water. The form ʻÂnîm is the plural of ʻayin, thus conveying the meaning "fountains" or "springs." This designation highlights a location characterized by the presence of multiple natural water sources. In the arid landscape of ancient Palestine, the presence of fountains was not merely a geographical descriptor but an indicator of vital resources, making such locations significant for settlement and sustenance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun ʻÂnîm (H6044) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the detailed geographical description of the tribal allotments.
* **[[Joshua 15:50]]**: "And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,"
In this verse, Anim is listed as one of the cities located in the hill country (or mountainous region) of Judah, specifically within the inheritance assigned to the tribe of Judah. The passage in Joshua 15 meticulously enumerates the towns and villages belonging to Judah, providing a comprehensive geographical and administrative overview of their territory. The inclusion of Anim, a place named for its "fountains," underscores the practical reality of ancient settlement patterns, where access to reliable water sources was paramount for agriculture, livestock, and human habitation. Its mention alongside other known towns helps to delineate the boundaries and specific holdings within Judah's vast inheritance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to H6044 is its singular root, `{{H5869}}` (ʻayin), which means "eye" or "spring/fountain." This dual meaning is fascinating, suggesting a visual connection between the wellspring of water and the eye as a source of vision. The concept of "springs" or "fountains" is pervasive in biblical geography and literature, often appearing in compound place names that begin with "En-" (a construct form of ʻayin), such as:
* En-Gedi ("Spring of the Kid")
* En-Roguel ("Fuller's Spring" or "Spring of the Foot-Washer")
* En-Dor ("Spring of Dwelling")
* En-Hakkore ("Spring of the Caller")
These names collectively underscore the vital importance of water sources in the ancient Near East, not only for survival but also as significant landmarks and centers of activity. Beyond geographical names, the concept of water, especially living water from springs, is a profound biblical motif, often symbolizing life, refreshment, purification, and divine provision.
### Theological Significance
While ʻÂnîm itself, as a proper noun for a specific location, does not carry inherent theological weight beyond its geographical identification, its underlying meaning—"fountains"—is rich with theological resonance. The presence of abundant water sources in the Promised Land, as evidenced by place names like Anim, speaks to God's faithful provision for His people. In a land often characterized by arid conditions, springs and fountains were literal lifelines, tangible manifestations of divine blessing and sustenance.
Theologically, "fountains" and "springs" are frequently used as metaphors for:
* **Divine Provision and Blessing**: God is often depicted as the ultimate source of life-giving water ([[Psalm 36:9]], [[Jeremiah 2:13]]). The promise of a land with "brooks of water, of fountains and springs, flowing out in valleys and hills" ([[Deuteronomy 8:7]]) was a core aspect of the covenant blessing.
* **Spiritual Refreshment and Life**: In the New Testament, Jesus proclaims Himself as the source of "living water" ([[John 4:10-14]], [[John 7:37-38]]), a metaphor for the Holy Spirit and eternal life. The imagery of the Lamb leading His flock to "springs of living water" in the eschatological vision of Revelation ([[Revelation 7:17]]) further emphasizes the divine sustenance and comfort.
* **Purity and Cleansing**: Water from springs was essential for ritual purification and daily cleansing, symbolizing spiritual washing and renewal.
Thus, the name ʻÂnîm, though merely a geographical marker, subtly points to the broader biblical theme of God as the benevolent provider who sustains His creation and His people with essential life-giving resources, both physical and spiritual.
### Summary
H6044 (ʻÂnîm) is a Hebrew proper noun, a place name meaning "fountains" or "springs," derived from the plural of `{{H5869}}` (ʻayin). It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Joshua 15:50]], where it is listed as a city within the hill country allotment of the tribe of Judah. Its name underscores the critical importance of water sources for ancient settlements in the Near East. Theologically, while ʻÂnîm is a geographical marker, its underlying meaning of "fountains" connects to profound biblical themes of divine provision, sustenance, and spiritual life, portraying God as the ultimate source of all refreshing and life-giving resources.
TRV