The Hebrew name ʻĂnâth, represented by H6067, is defined as Anath, an Israelite. Derived from a root word meaning "answer," it appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its sole use in scripture is as the proper name of the father of an Israelite judge, establishing a specific lineage within the biblical narrative.
In the biblical narrative, H6067 is used exclusively to identify the father of Shamgar. The name appears in the formula "Shamgar the son of Anath" in both of its occurrences. The first instance establishes Shamgar as a deliverer of Israel who slew six hundred Philistine men Judges 3:31. The second mention, in the Song of Deborah, refers to the "days of Shamgar the son of Anath" as a time of great peril when travel on the highways had ceased due to danger Judges 5:6.
Several related words are key to understanding the context surrounding Anath:
- H8044 Shamgar: This is the name of the Israelite judge who is identified as the son of Anath (Judges 3:31, Judges 5:6).
- H5221 nâkâh (to strike, slay): This verb describes the primary action of Anath's son, who "slew" the Philistines to bring about deliverance Judges 3:31.
- H376 ʼîysh (a man as an individual): This term specifies that Anath's son Shamgar struck down six hundred men of the Philistines Judges 3:31.
- H3467 yâshaʻ (to free or succor, deliver): This word describes the ultimate result of Shamgar's actions, stating that he delivered Israel Judges 3:31.
The narrative significance of H6067 is tied directly to the role of its son, Shamgar.
- Patronymic Identification: The name Anath serves to anchor the judge Shamgar within a specific family line. Using the father's name provides a standard biblical identifier for a historical figure.
- Context of Deliverance: The name is inextricably linked to an account of salvation. Anath is the father of one who delivered H3467 Israel from its oppressors, highlighting a theme of God raising up individuals for His purposes Judges 3:31.
- Marker of a Perilous Era: The reference in the Song of Deborah to the time of Shamgar, son of Anath, underscores the severe lawlessness and instability from which Israel required rescue Judges 5:6.
In summary, H6067 ʻĂnâth functions as a specific historical and genealogical marker. While the name itself is not associated with any direct actions, its presence is crucial for identifying the deliverer Shamgar. The two verses in which it appears frame the story of Anath's son, first by detailing his heroic act of deliverance and second by describing the dangerous era that necessitated such an intervention, solidifying his place in the history of the judges of Israel.
TRV