Anath
Image of Anath
Meaning and Origin
The name Anath is derived from a root meaning 'answer,' reflecting a possible connection to communication, response, or divine interaction. It carries a sense of engagement or a reply, which aligns with its biblical context and usage. Linguistically, the name has Semitic origins and appears in ancient Hebrew texts, where it may also reference a location or person. Historically, names with such roots often held both practical and spiritual connotations, emphasizing their role in connecting individuals to divine or communal experiences.
Image of Anath
Name Anath in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
Today, the name Anath has a modest but notable presence across 68 countries, with particular popularity in Bulgaria, Israel, and Serbia. Its usage reflects a blend of historical reverence and cultural adaptation, as it is embraced in regions with strong biblical or Semitic influences. In modern contexts, the name may be appreciated for its simplicity, historical depth, and spiritual undertones. Its connection to biblical narratives and its evocative meaning of 'answer' continue to make it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with both heritage and a sense of divine connection.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Bulgaria | Ана | 26 |
| Israel | Anat | 84 |
| Serbia | Ана | 233 |
| Moldova, Republic of | Ана | 1454 |
| Russian Federation | Ана | 1825 |
| Latvia | Anata | 1974 |
| Ukraine | Ана | 2003 |
| Estonia | Anat | 2275 |
| Togo | Anate | 2435 |
| Slovakia | Anat | 3872 |
| Cyprus | Anat | 4077 |
| Tanzania, United Republic of | Anath | 5217 |
| India | Anata | 5273 |
| Panama | Anat | 6304 |
| Thailand | Anat | 6852 |
Showing top 15 of 68 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
In the Bible, Anath is notably associated with Shamgar, the third judge of Israel. Shamgar is described as the 'son of Anath' in Judges 3:31, though scholars debate whether this refers to his father or the name of his hometown. The name's Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 underscores its moderate association with God, reflecting its indirect but meaningful connection to biblical narratives. Interestingly, the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its profound thematic resonance within scriptural themes, even though it is not directly tied to Jesus Christ. The name's cultural and spiritual significance lies in its role as a marker of identity, either for Shamgar's lineage or his origin, shaping the context of his heroic acts.
Biblical Context
The name Anath appears in three verses of the Bible, primarily in the Book of Judges (Judges 3:31; 5:6). It is most prominently linked to Shamgar, a judge who 'struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad.' This association positions the name within a narrative of deliverance and divine empowerment, even if its exact meaning—whether referring to a person or a place—remains ambiguous. The historical and textual context of Judges highlights a period of Israelite history marked by cycles of oppression and deliverance, with Shamgar's brief but impactful story representing God's provision through unlikely means. The mention of Anath thus anchors this narrative in a specific cultural or familial framework, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals and divine purpose.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- Judges 5:6
- Judges 3:3
- Judges 3:31