Topical Encyclopedia Anath is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Book of Judges. The name Anath is associated with a Canaanite goddess of war and fertility, but in the biblical narrative, it is more prominently recognized as part of the name of Shamgar, a judge of Israel.Shamgar, Son of Anath Shamgar is introduced in Judges 3:31: "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. He struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad, and he too saved Israel." . This brief mention highlights Shamgar's role as a deliverer of Israel, following the pattern of the judges who were raised up by God to rescue the Israelites from their oppressors. The title "son of Anath" has led to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest that Anath could be a reference to the Canaanite goddess, indicating a possible syncretism or cultural influence. However, from a conservative perspective, it is more likely that Anath refers to a geographical location or a family name, rather than a direct association with the pagan deity. This interpretation aligns with the biblical narrative's emphasis on the distinctiveness of Israel's faith and the rejection of Canaanite religious practices. Cultural and Historical Context The period of the judges was marked by a cycle of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Shamgar's victory over the Philistines with an oxgoad—a farming implement—demonstrates the unconventional means by which God often delivered His people. This account underscores the theme of divine empowerment, where God uses unlikely individuals and methods to achieve His purposes. The Philistines, mentioned as Shamgar's adversaries, were a significant threat to Israel during this time. They were a seafaring people who settled along the coastal regions of Canaan and frequently clashed with the Israelites. Shamgar's defeat of six hundred Philistines is a testament to his bravery and the divine assistance granted to him. Legacy and Significance Although Shamgar's account is brief, his inclusion in the Book of Judges serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in raising leaders to deliver Israel. His account, like those of other judges, points to the need for a righteous and faithful leader, ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. In summary, Anath, as referenced in the Bible, is primarily associated with Shamgar, a judge of Israel. The mention of Anath in this context highlights the cultural and historical backdrop of the judges' era, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the deliverance of His people through unexpected means. Smith's Bible Dictionary Anath(answer), father of Shamgar. (Judges 3:31; 5:6) Easton's Bible Dictionary An answer; i.e., to "prayer", the father of Shamgar, who was one of the judges of Israel (Judges 3:31). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ANATHa'-nath (`anath): Father of Shamgar (Judges 3:31; Judges 5:6). This name is connected with the Phoenician and Canaanite goddess `Anat, which was also worshipped in Egypt. She is mentioned in monuments of the 18th Dynasty, coupled with the war-goddess Astart (Moore, Judges, 105-896; DB; EB). Strong's Hebrew 1043. Beth-anath -- "temple of Anat," a place in NaphtaliBeth-anath. 1042, 1043. Beth-anath. 1044 . "temple of Anat," a place in Naphtali. Transliteration: Beth-anath Phonetic Spelling ... /hebrew/1043.htm - 6k 6067. Anath -- father of Shamgar 6030. anah -- to answer, respond 6068. Anathoth -- a place near Jer., also two Israelites Library The Third Ecumenical Council. The Council of Ephesus. Deborah's Song Women who Saved a Nation Content of Revelation. God Three in one and the Incarnation. iv. Excursus on How Our Lord Worked Miracles. Whether Christ is Subject to Himself? Whether the Effect of the Priesthood of Christ Pertained not Only ... Whether the Effect of Christ's Priesthood is the Expiation of Sins ... How Our People Served the Moabites Eighteen Years, and were Then ... Thesaurus Anath (4 Occurrences)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ANATH. ...Anath (4 Occurrences). Joshua 19:38 Iron, Migdal El, Horem, Beth Anath, and Beth Shemesh; nineteen cities with their villages ... /a/anath.htm - 8k Beth-anath (2 Occurrences) Ta'anath-shi'loh (1 Occurrence) Shamgar (2 Occurrences) Bethanath (2 Occurrences) Beth-shemesh (19 Occurrences) Beth-she'mesh (20 Occurrences) Shemesh (24 Occurrences) Taanath-shiloh (1 Occurrence) Anathema (6 Occurrences) Resources Who was Shamgar? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Baal? | GotQuestions.org Who was Asherah / Ashtoreth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Anath (4 Occurrences)Joshua 19:38 Judges 1:33 Judges 3:31 Judges 5:6 Subtopics Related Terms Ta'anath-shi'loh (1 Occurrence) Beth-she'mesh (20 Occurrences) |
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