### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAshnâh**, represented by `{{H823}}`, is the name of two places in Palestine. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is described as probably a variation for יְשָׁנָה. **ʼAshnâh** is used exclusively as a proper noun to identify these specific towns.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H823}}` are found in the book of Joshua, within the comprehensive lists detailing the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. The first instance places **Ashnah** in the "valley" region, alongside the cities of **Eshtaol** and **Zoreah** [[Joshua 15:33]]. The second mention of **Ashnah** appears in a different list of cities that includes **Jiphtah** and **Nezib**, indicating a second, distinct location also within Judah's territory [[Joshua 15:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H823}}` is understood through the places and geographical features mentioned with it:
* `{{H8219}}` **shᵉphêlâh**: This word means "Lowland, i.e. (with the article) the maritime slope of Palestine" and describes the region where the first **Ashnah** was located [[Joshua 15:33]].
* `{{H847}}` **ʼEshtâʼôl**: Defined as "intreaty; Eshtaol, a place in Palestine," it is a town listed with **Ashnah** [[Joshua 15:33]].
* `{{H6881}}` **Tsorʻâh**: This is "Tsorah, a place in Palestine," another town named alongside **Ashnah** [[Joshua 15:33]].
* `{{H3316}}` **Yiphtâch**: Meaning "he will open," this is "Jiphtah," a place in Palestine listed with the second **Ashnah** [[Joshua 15:43]].
* `{{H5334}}` **Nᵉtsîyb**: This word for "station" also refers to "Netsib, a place in Palestine," and is mentioned with the second **Ashnah** [[Joshua 15:43]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H823}}` is geographical and historical, marking a key aspect of Israel's story.
* **Land Allotment:** The listings of towns like **Ashnah** serve as a detailed record of the division of the promised land, a central event in the book of Joshua.
* **Tribal Identity:** By naming these specific towns, the text formally establishes the boundaries and holdings of the tribe of Judah, reinforcing its identity and inheritance.
* **Historical Record:** The careful enumeration of two separate towns named **Ashnah** within Judah's territory highlights the meticulous nature of the biblical account of the land distribution ([[Joshua 15:33]], [[Joshua 15:43]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H823}}` **ʼAshnâh** is not a word with deep theological meaning but a geographical marker of great historical importance. Its two appearances in the book of Joshua are integral to the record of the Israelite settlement of Canaan. These verses anchor the biblical narrative in a specific time and place, documenting the fulfillment of the land promise to the tribe of Judah.
TRV