probably from an unused root meaning to hunt; hunter; Kenaz, the name of an Edomite and of two Israelites; Kenaz.
Transliteration:Qᵉnaz
Pronunciation:ken-az'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H7073}}` (Qᵉnaz) is primarily a proper noun, a personal name. Its base definition indicates derivation from an unused root that likely means "to hunt." Consequently, the direct semantic meaning of the name is "hunter." While its usage is restricted to a personal appellation, the underlying etymology suggests an individual characterized by active pursuit, skill, and perhaps even a degree of aggression or prowess, qualities often associated with a hunter in ancient cultures. The semantic range is therefore limited to its function as a name, but the connotation of its root meaning subtly informs its significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Kenaz appears in the biblical text in two distinct lineages:
1. **Edomite Lineage:** Kenaz is identified as a son of Eliphaz, who was a son of Esau ([[Genesis 36:11]], [[Genesis 36:15]], [[1 Chronicles 1:36]]). This places Kenaz as a foundational figure in the Edomite tribal structure, a chieftain or clan head. The "Kenizzites" (`{{H7074}}`), a people group mentioned in God's covenant with Abraham ([[Genesis 15:19]]), are likely descendants of this Edomite Kenaz or a related clan, indicating their ancient presence in the land.
2. **Israelite Lineage (Tribe of Judah):**
* Most notably, Kenaz is the brother of Caleb and father of Othniel, the first judge of Israel ([[Joshua 15:17]], [[Judges 1:13]], [[Judges 3:9]], [[Judges 3:11]], [[1 Chronicles 4:13]]). This Kenaz belongs to the influential Calebite clan within the tribe of Judah. Othniel's role as a deliverer who "hunted down" and defeated Cushan-Rishathaim, the king of Aram-Naharaim, resonates with the etymological meaning of his grandfather's name. This lineage is characterized by courage, leadership, and a commitment to God's purposes.
* Another Kenaz is mentioned as a son of Elah, also from the tribe of Judah, though less prominent in the narrative ([[1 Chronicles 4:15]]).
In these contexts, the name Kenaz is associated with tribal progenitors, land inheritance (via Caleb's family), and military leadership. The underlying meaning of "hunter" might subtly allude to the active, decisive, and perhaps even martial nature of these individuals or their descendants, whether in establishing a tribal identity or in leading Israel in conquest and deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H7074}}` (Qenizzî):** This plural form refers to the "Kenizzites," a people group mentioned in the Abrahamic covenant ([[Genesis 15:19]]). This term directly links to Kenaz and highlights the tribal and ethnic significance of the name.
* **Hunting:** The core concept of the name. In the ancient Near East, hunting was often associated with strength, skill, provision, and even royal power (e.g., Nimrod, a "mighty hunter before the Lord" [[Genesis 10:9]]). While Kenaz is not depicted as an actual hunter, the name carries these connotations of prowess and initiative.
* **Warfare and Conquest:** Especially in the context of Othniel, the idea of "hunting" extends metaphorically to the pursuit and defeat of enemies, signifying military prowess and successful strategic action.
* **Lineage and Clan:** The primary use of Kenaz is as a progenitor or a member of a significant family line. This emphasizes the importance of family identity, heritage, and the transmission of character or calling through generations in the biblical narrative.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Kenaz, while not explicitly tied to divine attributes or direct theological statements, can be discerned through its usage and etymology:
* **Divine Providence in Naming:** The recurring appearance of Kenaz as a significant figure in both Edomite and Israelite lineages suggests that even seemingly descriptive names are part of God's overarching sovereign plan for peoples and individuals. God's hand is evident in the rise of particular families and the roles they play in salvation history.
* **Character and Calling:** For the Israelite Kenaz, particularly the father of Othniel, the name "hunter" could subtly prefigure the active and decisive role his son would play in delivering Israel from oppression. It speaks to a heritage of initiative, courage, and effectiveness—qualities valued by God for leadership and the accomplishment of His will.
* **Sovereignty Over Nations:** The presence of Kenaz as an ancestor for both Edom (a nation often in conflict with Israel) and Israel highlights God's sovereign hand in the formation and history of all peoples. The inclusion of the Kenizzites among the nations whose land God promised to Abraham ([[Genesis 15:19]]) further underscores God's pre-existing knowledge and plan for all human groups, even those outside the immediate covenant line.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H7073}}` (Qᵉnaz) is a proper noun meaning "hunter," derived from an unused root. It identifies key figures in both Edomite and Israelite genealogies. As a grandson of Esau ([[Genesis 36:11]]), Kenaz marks an early Edomite tribal head. More prominently, Kenaz is the brother of Caleb and father of Othniel, Israel's first judge ([[Joshua 15:17]]), establishing a lineage of courage and leadership within the tribe of Judah. The name's etymological root, "hunter," subtly imbues these figures with connotations of initiative, strength, and the successful pursuit of objectives, whether in tribal establishment or military deliverance. The related term `{{H7074}}` (Kenizzites) further emphasizes the tribal and ethnic significance. Theologically, Kenaz illustrates divine providence in the naming and positioning of individuals within God's grand narrative, reflecting His sovereign hand over both covenant and non-covenant peoples, and hinting at the character and calling of those who would serve His purposes.
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