Asenath
Meaning and Origin
Asenath is a name of profound historical and linguistic significance, believed to derive from the Ancient Egyptian phrase 'js.tj-(n)-n(j)t,' meaning belonging to the goddess Neith. Neith was an important deity in Egyptian mythology, associated with creation, wisdom, and warfare. The name reflects Asenath's Egyptian heritage and high social standing as a daughter of Potiphera, a priest of On (Heliopolis). Though rooted in Egyptian culture, Asenath's name has transcended its origins, becoming a symbolic link between the ancient world and the biblical narrative.
Name Asenath in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
, "GLOBAL_PRESENCE_SECTION_START": "Today, the name Asenath enjoys global recognition, found in 43 countries and particularly popular in places like Congo, Tanzania, and Israel. Its usage reflects a blend of cultural and religious significance, with the name often chosen for its biblical heritage and historical depth. In modern Israel, 'Osnat,' a variant of Asenath, is a common female first name, demonstrating its enduring appeal. Asenath's story continues to resonate with individuals seeking names that embody strength, faith, and a connection to biblical tradition, making it a meaningful choice across diverse cultures and communities.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Congo, The Democratic Republic of the | Asnath | 876 |
| Tanzania, United Republic of | Asnath | 974 |
| Israel | אסנת | 1040 |
| Kenya | Asenath | 1166 |
| Namibia | Asnath | 1483 |
| South Africa | Asnath | 2798 |
| Botswana | Asnath | 2874 |
| Afghanistan | Asenat | 4455 |
| Colombia | Aseneth | 4534 |
| Syrian Arab Republic | Asenat | 5208 |
| Côte d'Ivoire | Asnath | 6356 |
| Mauritius | Asnath | 7142 |
| Jamaica | Aseneth | 7407 |
| Iraq | اسنات | 8816 |
| Mexico | Aseneth | 8992 |
Showing top 15 of 43 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
, "SIGNIFICANCE_SECTION_START": "Asenath occupies a unique position in biblical history as the wife of Joseph, one of the patriarchs of Israel, and the mother of Manasseh and Ephraim, who later became the forefathers of two of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Her Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 suggests a moderate connection to God in scripture, primarily through her role as Joseph's spouse and the matriarch of two tribes. Her Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underscores her indirect significance in the lineage and spiritual narrative leading to Jesus Christ. Asenath's story also demonstrates themes of redemption and inclusion, as Rabbinic traditions often portray her as a convert to Judaism or as an individual with ties to Jacob's family, symbolizing the integration of diverse cultural and spiritual backgrounds into the faith.
Biblical Context
, "BIBLICAL_CONTEXT_SECTION_START": "In the Bible, Asenath is mentioned explicitly in four verses, all within the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 41:45, Pharaoh gives Asenath to Joseph as a wife, signifying Joseph's rise to power and acceptance into Egyptian society. Genesis 41:50-52 records the birth of her two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, highlighting her role in the continuation of the Abrahamic covenant. Genesis 46:20 lists her as part of Jacob's extended family, emphasizing her integration into the Israelite narrative despite her Egyptian origins. These verses collectively illustrate Asenath's importance in both familial and spiritual contexts, bridging the worlds of Egypt and Israel during a pivotal moment in biblical history.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- Genesis 41:45
- Genesis 46:20
- Error: Could not parse format in Gen. 41:45, 50-52
- Genesis 41:50