or קִינִי; (1 Chronicles 2:55), patronymic from קַיִן; a Kenite or member of the tribe of Kajin; Kenite.
Transliteration:Qêynîy
Pronunciation:kay-nee'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7017}}` (Qêynîy), transliterated as Qêynîy, is a gentilic or patronymic noun/adjective. It is derived from the proper noun `{{H7014}}` (Qayin), which is the Hebrew name for Cain. Thus, `{{H7017}}` literally means "a Kenite" or "a member of the tribe of Kajin." The term identifies a specific people group, often depicted as nomadic or semi-nomadic, who inhabited regions bordering ancient Israel, particularly in the southern wilderness and parts of Canaan. While the precise etymology of `{{H7014}}` (Cain) is debated, some scholars connect it to roots implying "smith" or "metalworker," which could suggest an historical association of the Kenites with craftsmanship, though this is not explicitly stated in the biblical text regarding the people group itself. The primary semantic range of `{{H7017}}` is therefore restricted to identifying this distinct ethnic entity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Kenites are mentioned throughout the Old Testament, revealing their enduring presence and complex relationship with Israel.
Their earliest appearance is in [[Genesis 15:19]], where God includes the Kenites among the ten nations whose land He promises to Abraham's descendants, indicating their presence in the broader Canaanite sphere.
In [[Numbers 24:21-22]], Balaam's oracle speaks of the Kenites' dwelling place as "strong" and "set in the rock," yet prophesies their eventual destruction by Asshur, highlighting both their perceived resilience and their ultimate vulnerability in the divine plan.
A pivotal connection is established in [[Judges 1:16]], which identifies the descendants of Hobab, Moses' father-in-law (who is also called Jethro, `{{H3503}}`), as Kenites. These Kenites are noted for their loyalty to Israel, having accompanied them from Jericho and settling in the wilderness of Judah, south of Arad. This passage underscores a positive and enduring relationship between a segment of the Kenites and the tribe of Judah.
The figure of Heber the Kenite in [[Judges 4:11]] and his wife Jael, who famously killed Sisera, further illustrates their presence and involvement in Israelite affairs, though Heber is noted as having separated himself from the main body of Kenites.
During the time of Saul, the Kenites' historical kindness to Israel is explicitly acknowledged. In [[1 Samuel 15:6]], Saul warns the Kenites to depart from among the Amalekites before he executes God's judgment upon the latter, stating, "you showed kindness to all the people of Israel when they came up out of Egypt." This demonstrates a long-standing, remembered bond.
Later, during David's flight from Saul, the Kenites are mentioned as inhabitants of the Negeb, with David feigning raids against them to deceive Achish ([[1 Samuel 27:10]], [[1 Samuel 30:29]]).
Finally, [[1 Chronicles 2:55]] mentions families of scribes who "dwelt with the Kenites" (using the alternative spelling קִינִי), suggesting a continued, perhaps integrated, presence within or alongside Israelite communities even in the post-exilic period, particularly in the context of learned professions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H7014}}` (Qayin), Cain, from whom the Kenites are traditionally linked as descendants. This connection, while not explicitly detailed in terms of a direct genealogical line beyond the name, establishes a foundational identity.
The Kenites are closely associated with `{{H3503}}` (Yithrô), Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, who is a Midianite priest. His family, particularly Hobab, is explicitly stated to be Kenite, suggesting a strong link between the Kenites and the broader Midianite confederation. This connection is crucial for understanding their initial proximity and relationship with early Israel.
Their geographic and sometimes social proximity to other nomadic or semi-nomadic groups, such as the Amalekites, is also notable, though the Kenites are consistently portrayed as distinct from and often favorably disposed towards Israel, in contrast to the hostile Amalekites.
The mention of scribal families dwelling with the Kenites in [[1 Chronicles 2:55]] hints at a possible connection to learning, record-keeping, or specialized skills, which might subtly echo the potential etymological link of "Cain" to craftsmanship.
### Theological Significance
The Kenites hold several points of theological significance within the biblical narrative.
Firstly, their inclusion in God's land promise to Abraham ([[Genesis 15:19]]) demonstrates the vast scope of divine sovereignty and covenant, encompassing peoples beyond the direct lineage of Abraham, even if their ultimate destiny is distinct from Israel's.
Secondly, their consistent portrayal as a people who showed kindness and loyalty to Israel, particularly through Moses' family ([[Judges 1:16]], [[1 Samuel 15:6]]), serves as a powerful testament to God's remembrance of righteous acts. This highlights that divine favor and blessing could extend to those outside the covenant community who demonstrated faithfulness and support for God's chosen people. Saul's explicit command to spare them before destroying the Amalekites underscores this divine principle of remembering kindness.
Thirdly, Balaam's oracle concerning the Kenites ([[Numbers 24:21-22]]) reveals that even seemingly strong and established peoples are subject to divine judgment and historical shifts, emphasizing God's ultimate control over the destinies of nations.
Finally, the Kenites represent a fascinating case study of inter-group relations in ancient Israel. They maintained a distinct identity for centuries yet demonstrated remarkable capacity for integration, cooperation, and even close association with Israelite society, as seen in their settlement in Judah and their association with scribal families. This nuanced relationship reflects the complex tapestry of God's interaction with diverse peoples in the ancient Near East.
### Summary
The term `{{H7017}}` (Qêynîy) identifies a member of the Kenite people, a nomadic or semi-nomadic group whose origins are traditionally linked to Cain (`{{H7014}}`). Their most significant biblical connection is through Jethro/Hobab, Moses' father-in-law, whose descendants settled with the tribe of Judah. Throughout the Old Testament, the Kenites are consistently portrayed as distinct yet often favorably disposed towards Israel, remembered for their kindness during the Exodus. Their presence in the biblical narrative underscores the breadth of God's sovereign plan, the importance of loyalty and kindness even from non-Israelite peoples, and the complex dynamics of inter-group relations in the ancient world. They serve as a reminder that divine remembrance and judgment extend to all nations, based on their actions and relationships with God's covenant people.
TRV