Ithnan
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Topical Encyclopedia
Biblical Reference:
Ithnan is mentioned in the Old Testament within the context of the territorial allotments to the tribes of Israel. Specifically, it is found in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes following their exodus from Egypt and subsequent conquest of Canaan.

Scriptural Citation:
The sole mention of Ithnan is in Joshua 15:23, where it is listed among the cities in the southern part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible renders this verse as follows:
"…Kedesh, Hazor, Ithnan,"

Geographical Context:
Ithnan is identified as one of the cities in the Negev region, a desert area in the southern part of ancient Judah. The Negev was known for its arid climate and challenging living conditions, yet it was a significant part of the inheritance given to Judah. The precise location of Ithnan remains uncertain, as it is not prominently featured in other biblical narratives or archaeological findings. Its mention alongside other cities suggests it was part of a network of settlements that played a role in the administration and defense of Judah's southern frontier.

Historical and Cultural Significance:
The inclusion of Ithnan in the list of cities within Judah's territory underscores the comprehensive nature of the tribal allotments described in the Book of Joshua. Each city, regardless of its size or prominence, contributed to the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land his descendants would inherit (Genesis 15:18-21). The detailed enumeration of cities like Ithnan reflects the importance of land and settlement in Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Ithnan, though brief, is part of the broader narrative of God's faithfulness in delivering the land to the Israelites. It serves as a testament to the fulfillment of divine promises and the establishment of Israel as a nation under God's covenant. The allocation of land to each tribe, including the less prominent cities, illustrates the meticulous care with which God provided for His people, ensuring that each tribe had its inheritance and place within the Promised Land.

Contemporary Reflection:
While Ithnan itself does not feature prominently in biblical history or modern discourse, its inclusion in the biblical record invites reflection on the themes of divine provision and faithfulness. Believers today can draw encouragement from the knowledge that God is attentive to the details of His promises and that every part of His plan, no matter how seemingly insignificant, holds value and purpose within His overarching narrative.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Ithnan

(given), one of the towns in the extreme south of Judah. (Joshua 15:23) No trace of its existence has yet been discovered.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ITHNAN

ith'-nan (yithnan): A town in the South of Judah mentioned along with Hazor and Ziph (Joshua 15:23), apparently the "Ethnan" of Jerome (Onom 118 13). Not identified.

Strong's Hebrew
3497. Yithnan -- a city in the desert of Judah
... 3496, 3497. Yithnan. 3498 . a city in the desert of Judah. Transliteration:
Yithnan Phonetic Spelling: (yith-nawn') Short Definition: Ithnan. ... Ithnan. ...
/hebrew/3497.htm - 6k
Thesaurus
Ithnan (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ITHNAN. ...Ithnan (1 Occurrence). Joshua 15:23 Kedesh,
Hazor, Ithnan, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/i/ithnan.htm - 6k

Hazor (19 Occurrences)
... 15:23). The name here should probably be connected with the word following,
Ithnan, HAZOR-ITHNAN instead of "Hazor and Ithnan.". (3 ...
/h/hazor.htm - 17k

Kedesh (12 Occurrences)
... WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Joshua 15:23 Kedesh, Hazor, Ithnan, (WEB KJV JPS ASV
BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Joshua 19:37 Kedesh, Edrei ...
/k/kedesh.htm - 14k

Ithmah (1 Occurrence)

/i/ithmah.htm - 7k

Ithra (1 Occurrence)

/i/ithra.htm - 7k

Resources
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Concordance
Ithnan (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 15:23
Kedesh, Hazor, Ithnan,
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Subtopics

Ithnan

Ithnan: A Town in the Extreme South of Judah

Related Terms

Hazor (19 Occurrences)

Kedesh (12 Occurrences)

Ithmah (1 Occurrence)

Ithra (1 Occurrence)

Ithmah: A Moabite
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