Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Hanan'el, also known as Hananel, is a name found in the Hebrew Bible, meaning "God is gracious." It is associated with a specific location in Jerusalem and is mentioned in the context of the city's fortifications. The name reflects the theological emphasis on God's grace and favor, a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures. Biblical References: 1. The Tower of Hananel: The Tower of Hananel is a significant landmark in the city of Jerusalem. It is mentioned in the context of the city's walls and fortifications. The tower is referenced in the books of Nehemiah and Jeremiah, highlighting its importance in the defense and structure of Jerusalem. · Nehemiah 3:1 : "Then Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests set to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and installed its doors, after which they rebuilt the wall as far as the Tower of Hananel." · Nehemiah 12:39 : "over the Gate of Ephraim, the Jeshanah Gate, the Fish Gate, the Tower of Hananel, and the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Sheep Gate; and they stopped at the Gate of the Guard." · Jeremiah 31:38 : "Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when the city will be rebuilt for the LORD, from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate." These passages indicate that the Tower of Hananel was a key part of Jerusalem's northern defenses. Its mention alongside other gates and towers underscores its strategic importance. 2. Symbolic Significance: The Tower of Hananel, like other parts of Jerusalem's wall, symbolizes God's protection and the restoration of His people. In the prophetic context of Jeremiah, the rebuilding of the city, including the Tower of Hananel, signifies a future hope and divine promise of restoration for Israel. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of redemption and God's covenant faithfulness. Historical and Archaeological Context: While the exact location of the Tower of Hananel is not definitively known today, it is believed to have been situated in the northern part of Jerusalem's wall. Archaeological efforts have sought to identify remnants of the ancient city's fortifications, though conclusive evidence specifically identifying the Tower of Hananel remains elusive. Nevertheless, its repeated mention in Scripture attests to its historical significance. Theological Implications: The name Hanan'el, meaning "God is gracious," serves as a reminder of the divine grace that undergirds the biblical narrative. The presence of the Tower of Hananel in the context of Jerusalem's restoration points to God's gracious provision and protection over His people. It reflects the hope of renewal and the assurance of God's enduring promises. In summary, Hanan'el, through its association with the Tower of Hananel, represents both a physical and symbolic element within the biblical text. It highlights themes of divine grace, protection, and the hope of restoration, central to the message of the Scriptures. Concordance Hanan'el (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 3:1 Thesaurus Hanan'el (1 Occurrence)Hanan'el. Han'anel, Hanan'el. Hanani . Multi-Version Concordance Hanan'el (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 3:1 Then Eliashib the high priest ... /h/hanan'el.htm - 6k Hanani (11 Occurrences) Han'anel (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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