### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Siṭnâh**, represented by `{{H7856}}`, is the proper name of a well. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is directly tied to the conflict that arose when it was dug, making it a name synonymous with accusation and strife.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7856}}` is found in the narrative of Isaac's sojourning in Gerar. After digging one well that caused contention, his servants **digged** another, which also led to conflict. The scripture states, "And they digged another well, and strove for that also: and he called the name of it **Sitnah**" [[Genesis 26:21]]. The name itself serves as a memorial to the hostility and opposition Isaac faced while trying to secure water, a basic necessity for life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H7856}}` is defined by the actions surrounding the well's creation and naming:
* `{{H2658}}` **châphar** (dig, search out): This root describes the physical act of digging the well. Its meaning extends beyond simple digging to include exploring or searching, as when the king of Jericho sent men to **search out** the land [[Joshua 2:3]].
* `{{H7378}}` **rîyb** (contend, strive, plead): This is the root from which the conflict arises. It signifies a controversy or wrangling. The term is used broadly for human conflict and also for divine intercession, as when David asks the LORD to **plead** his cause with those who strive against him [[Psalms 35:1]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H7856}}` is a proper name and not a theological term itself, its etymology points to significant themes:
* **A Memorial of Opposition:** The naming of **Sitnah** serves as a direct marker of human conflict and hostility. It permanently labels a place based on the strife that occurred there [[Genesis 26:21]].
* **Conflict Over Provision:** The contention arose over a well, a source of life. This highlights a theme where foundational efforts for survival, such as digging for water `{{H2658}}`, are met with opposition.
* **The Nature of Strife:** The root verb for the conflict, **rîyb** `{{H7378}}`, is used throughout scripture to describe various forms of contention, from human disputes to divine judgment. It is used when God promises, "I will **contend** with him that contendeth with thee" [[Isaiah 49:25]], framing the struggle at Sitnah within a broader biblical pattern of conflict and resolution.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7856}}` **Siṭnâh** is a highly specific term, used once to name a well born from conflict. While simply a place name, its meaning is inseparable from the verb **rîyb** `{{H7378}}`, "to contend." It stands in scripture as a testament to a moment of accusation and strife, illustrating how a physical location can be permanently defined by the human disagreements that took place there. The story of **Sitnah** is a concise narrative of facing opposition in the pursuit of life's necessities.
TRV