The Hebrew word ʻÂnêm, represented by H6046, is a proper name for a place in Palestine. Its name is derived from the dual of a word for fountain, meaning two fountains. It appears only 1 time in the Bible, in 1 unique verse.
The single biblical reference to H6046 is found in a genealogical list of cities assigned to the Levites. In the record of priestly cities, the text states the allocation of "And Ramoth with her suburbs, and Anem with her suburbs" 1 Chronicles 6:73. This places ʻÂnêm as a specific, named location that was designated, along with its surrounding pasture lands, for the Levites.
Several related words provide context for the role and description of ʻÂnêm:
- H7216 Râʼmôwth (heights; Ramoth): This place name is mentioned in direct parallel with Anem in its only appearance, also being given "with her suburbs" 1 Chronicles 6:73. Ramoth is identified in other passages as a Levitical city of refuge Joshua 20:8.
- H4054 migrâsh (a suburb; cast out, suburb): This word is crucial to understanding the nature of Anem's settlement. It describes the open pasture lands surrounding a city. The term is consistently used to denote the areas around Levitical cities, which were given to them for their possessions and flocks (Numbers 35:2, 2 Chronicles 11:14).
The primary significance of H6046 is geographical and administrative within the structure of ancient Israel.
- Levitical Provision: As a city given to the Levites, ʻÂnêm was part of God's provision for the priestly tribe, which did not receive a large tribal territory like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given specific cities with suburbs to dwell in Numbers 35:2.
- Meaningful Name: The name ʻÂnêm, meaning "two fountains," suggests a location known for its water sources, a vital feature for life and sustenance in the region.
- Designated Territory: Its inclusion in the list in 1 Chronicles highlights its official status as a Levitical possession, a city set apart for those who ministered to the LORD 2 Chronicles 11:14.
In summary, H6046 ʻÂnêm is a place name that, while mentioned only once, carries significance as a designated Levitical city. Its name, "two fountains," points to a life-sustaining characteristic. Its sole appearance in scripture firmly places it within the system of inherited cities and suburbs that were set apart for the priests and Levites of Israel 1 Chronicles 6:73.
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