a primitive root; to erect; but used only as denominative from קֵן; to nestle, i.e. build or occupy as anest; make...nest.
Transliteration:qânan
Pronunciation:kaw-nan'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H7077}}` (קָנַן, *qânan*) is a primitive root, fundamentally meaning "to erect." However, its usage in the biblical text is exclusively denominative, deriving its meaning directly from the noun `{{H7064}}` (קֵן, *qēn*), which signifies "nest." Consequently, `{{H7077}}` takes on the specialized meaning "to nestle," or more broadly, "to build or occupy as a nest." This semantic range encompasses the actions of constructing a dwelling, inhabiting it, and by extension, finding security or refuge within it. The verb thus describes an act of establishing a secure, often elevated, dwelling place, typically associated with birds.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H7077}}` appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance offering profound theological insight:
* **[[Deuteronomy 32:11]]**: "As an eagle stirs up its nest, flutters over its young, spreads out its wings, takes them up, carries them on its pinions." Here, the verb יְקַנֵּן (*yəqannēn*), derived from `{{H7077}}`, describes the eagle's intense and protective activity around its nest. In this context, it signifies the eagle's diligent care, preparation, and training of its young for flight. The image is one of active, nurturing presence, ensuring the safety and development of the offspring within their secure dwelling. This passage forms part of the Song of Moses, where the eagle's actions serve as a powerful metaphor for Yahweh's providential and redemptive care for Israel during their wilderness journey.
* **[[Jeremiah 49:16]]**: "The terror you inspire and the pride of your heart have deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, who occupy the high places; though you make your nest as high as the eagle, I will bring you down from there,” declares the Lord." In this prophetic judgment against Edom, `{{H7077}}` is used twice: once as יְקַנֵּן (*yəqannēn*), "who occupy," and again as תְּקַנֵּן (*təqannēn*), "you make your nest." The verb here describes Edom's perceived invulnerability due to their dwelling in fortified, high-altitude locations, likened to an eagle's inaccessible nest. The "nesting" action symbolizes their self-reliance and arrogant trust in their natural strongholds. The divine declaration immediately counters this hubris, asserting God's absolute power to dismantle even the most impregnable human defenses.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant related word to `{{H7077}}` is its denominative root, the noun `{{H7064}}` (קֵן, *qēn*), meaning "nest." The verb's entire semantic scope is intrinsically tied to this noun, emphasizing the act of creating or inhabiting such a dwelling.
Concepts related to `{{H7077}}` include:
* **Security and Refuge**: The primary function of a nest is to provide a secure dwelling.
* **Protection and Nurturing**: As seen in Deuteronomy, the act of "nestling" can imply parental care and safeguarding.
* **Elevation and Inaccessibility**: The "high places" and "clefts of the rock" associated with the eagle's nest in Jeremiah highlight perceived invulnerability.
* **Pride and Self-Reliance**: In a negative context, the act of "making a nest high" can symbolize human arrogance and a false sense of security apart from divine protection.
* **Dwelling/Habitation**: More broadly, the verb relates to the general concept of living in a place, though with the specific nuance of a secure, often elevated, abode. This connects it conceptually, though not etymologically, to verbs like `{{H3427}}` (יָשַׁב, *yāshab*, "to dwell, sit").
### Theological Significance
The rare occurrences of `{{H7077}}` carry profound theological weight, presenting a striking dichotomy in its application.
Firstly, in [[Deuteronomy 32:11]], the image of the eagle "nestling" over its young powerfully illustrates **God's tender, protective, and pedagogical care for Israel**. This metaphor highlights divine providence, God's active involvement in the lives of His people, and His commitment to nurturing them for maturity and spiritual independence. It underscores the concept of God as a faithful and vigilant guardian, providing security and guidance within His covenant relationship. The "nest" here symbolizes the secure haven God provides for His chosen people.
Secondly, in [[Jeremiah 49:16]], the verb serves as a stark warning against **human pride and reliance on false security**. Edom's "nesting" in high places, though physically formidable, is ultimately futile against the sovereign will of God. This passage emphasizes that no human stronghold, no matter how elevated or inaccessible, can withstand divine judgment. It underscores the theological truth that true security is not found in physical defenses or human ingenuity, but solely in humble reliance upon the Lord. This usage transforms the "nest" from a symbol of divine protection into one of human hubris, destined for collapse.
Thus, `{{H7077}}` encapsulates a significant theological tension: it portrays both the profound **security and nurturing presence of God** for those who trust Him, and the **illusory nature of human-made security** for those who defy Him. The ultimate security of any "nest" is determined by its foundation and the power that protects it.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H7077}}` (קָנַן, *qânan*), meaning "to nestle" or "to make a nest," is a rare but highly significant denominative verb derived from `{{H7064}}` ("nest"). Its two biblical occurrences offer contrasting yet complementary theological insights. In [[Deuteronomy 32:11]], it beautifully depicts God's intimate, protective, and nurturing care for Israel, akin to an eagle tending its young in the nest. This portrays divine providence and unwavering faithfulness. Conversely, in [[Jeremiah 49:16]], the verb describes Edom's arrogant reliance on their seemingly impregnable, high dwelling places, likening them to an eagle's inaccessible nest. Here, `{{H7077}}` serves as a powerful warning against human pride and false security, emphasizing God's ultimate sovereignty over all perceived strongholds. Together, these uses of `{{H7077}}` underscore that while a "nest" can symbolize profound security and divine care, it can also represent human hubris and a false sense of invulnerability, ultimately subject to God's judgment. True security is found not in earthly defenses, but in the divine protector.
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