Zanoah

The name Zanoah derives from Hebrew origins, where it is understood to mean 'bog' or 'marshy place.' This meaning reflects its geographical connotations, as the towns bearing this name were situated in the varied terrain of Judah, including both hill country and lowland areas. Linguistically, the name is rooted in ancient Semitic traditions, aligning with other biblical names that often reflect natural features or characteristics of their locations. Historically, names like Zanoah served not only as identifiers but also as descriptors of the surrounding environment, which played a vital role in the lives of biblical communities.

Zanoah holds moderate spiritual significance, as indicated by its Divine Proximity Index of 70.3. Though not directly associated with divine intervention or major biblical figures, it holds a notable place in scripture as the name of towns deeply embedded in Judah's history. Its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1 suggests that the name, while geographically rooted, may have connections to narratives involving Jesus or his teachings, though indirect. Additionally, the mention of Zanoah in 1 Chronicles 4:18 links it to a lineage through Mered and 'his Jewish wife,' emphasizing its integration into familial and tribal contexts within the Bible. This connection underscores the name's cultural and spiritual resonance in the broader biblical narrative.

Zanoah appears in three distinct biblical verses, primarily in the context of geographical delineation and genealogical records. Joshua 15:34 and 15:56 highlight Zanoah as two separate towns within Judah—one in the lowland and another in the hill country southwest of Hebron. These references underscore its importance in defining territorial boundaries during the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land. Furthermore, 1 Chronicles 4:18 provides a personal dimension to the name, mentioning it in connection with Mered and his Jewish wife. While the towns themselves do not play a central role in dramatic biblical events, their inclusion signifies their relevance in the socio-political landscape of ancient Judah.