from the same as צֹאן used denominatively; sheep pasture; Zaanan, a place in Palestine; Zaanan.
Transliteration:Tsaʼănân
Pronunciation:tsah-an-awn'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6630}}` (Tsaʼănân), transliterated as Zaanan, is a proper noun denoting a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the same root as `{{H6629}}` (tsōʼn), meaning "flock, sheep, or goats." Used denominatively, Tsaʼănân literally signifies a "sheep pasture." This etymology reveals the primary characteristic of the place: an area suitable and utilized for grazing flocks. Semantically, it evokes images of open fields, sustenance, and the pastoral life central to ancient Israelite society. The name itself is descriptive, identifying the locality by its agricultural function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6630}}` (Tsaʼănân) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Micah:
* [[Micah 1:11]]: "Pass away, O inhabitant of Saphir, in nakedness and shame; The inhabitant of Zaanan does not come out. The wailing of Beth-ezel will take away from you its standing."
In this verse, Zaanan is listed among several towns in Judah that are facing the impending judgment and invasion, likely from the Assyrians, as prophesied by Micah. The context is one of lament and divine wrath. The phrase "The inhabitant of Zaanan does not come out" is particularly striking. While the name "Zaanan" suggests an open, free pasture for sheep, its inhabitants are depicted as confined, unable to escape the impending disaster. This creates a poignant irony, where a place associated with freedom and provision becomes a symbol of entrapment and despair under judgment. The verse paints a picture of widespread devastation, where even the most idyllic or functional places are not spared from the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to `{{H6630}}` (Tsaʼănân) is its root, `{{H6629}}` (tsōʼn), which refers to "flock, sheep, or goats." This connection emphasizes the pastoral nature of the place. The concept of "pasture" is also intrinsically linked, denoting fertile land for grazing.
In the broader biblical context, Zaanan relates to:
* **Geographical Names:** Many biblical place names are descriptive, reflecting the land's features, resources, or historical significance. Zaanan fits this pattern, indicating a region known for its flocks.
* **Pastoral Imagery:** The imagery of sheep, shepherds, and pastures is pervasive throughout the Bible, often symbolizing God's people (as His flock) and His provision or guidance.
* **Paronomasia (Wordplay):** Micah's prophecy in chapter 1 is renowned for its extensive use of wordplay with place names to underscore the severity and irony of the judgment (e.g., Beth-le-aphrah, "house of dust," for "dust"). While not as explicit as some other examples in the passage, the contrast between Zaanan's name ("sheep pasture," implying openness) and the fate of its inhabitants ("does not come out") functions as a subtle yet powerful form of ironic commentary, highlighting the reversal of fortune.
### Theological Significance
The single mention of Zaanan in [[Micah 1:11]] carries significant theological weight within the broader context of divine judgment and lament.
* **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty:** Zaanan's inclusion in a list of towns facing desolation underscores the comprehensiveness of God's judgment. No place, however seemingly peaceful or productive (like a sheep pasture), is exempt from the consequences of sin. This demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty, extending His righteous governance over all geographical domains and their inhabitants.
* **Irony and Lament:** The name "sheep pasture" conjures images of peace, abundance, and security. The lament that "The inhabitant of Zaanan does not come out" creates a profound irony. It transforms a place of pastoral tranquility into one of confinement and despair. This reversal serves to intensify the lament, emphasizing the complete disruption of life and the loss of all that was once secure and comforting. It highlights how sin can corrupt even the most idyllic settings.
* **Consequences of Disobedience:** Zaanan stands as a poignant reminder of the pervasive and inescapable consequences of national disobedience. The inability of its inhabitants to "come out" symbolizes not only physical entrapment but also perhaps a spiritual inability to escape the divine wrath, reinforcing the biblical principle that sin leads to bondage and ruin.
### Summary
`{{H6630}}` (Tsaʼănân), or Zaanan, is a proper noun for a place in ancient Palestine, whose name literally means "sheep pasture," derived from `{{H6629}}` (tsōʼn) for "flock." It appears uniquely in [[Micah 1:11]], within a prophetic lament detailing the impending judgment upon Judah. The phrase "The inhabitant of Zaanan does not come out" creates a powerful and sorrowful irony, contrasting the peaceful, open imagery of a sheep pasture with the confinement and despair faced by its people under divine wrath. Theologically, Zaanan serves as a stark illustration of God's comprehensive judgment, demonstrating that no place, however seemingly idyllic, is exempt from the consequences of sin. Its mention underscores the pervasive nature of the impending calamity and highlights the tragic transformation of a place of natural abundance into one of entrapment and lament.
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