Calneh, also referred to as Canneh and Calno, is a city mentioned in the Bible, associated with the ancient Assyrian Empire. Its significance is noted in several scriptural passages, highlighting its historical and prophetic importance.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 10:10 : Calneh is first mentioned in the Table of Nations as part of Nimrod's kingdom. "The beginning of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar." This reference places Calneh within the context of the early post-Flood civilizations, indicating its antiquity and its role in the expansion of Nimrod's dominion.

2. Isaiah 10:9 : The city is mentioned in a rhetorical question posed by the Assyrian king, reflecting its conquest and subjugation. "Is not Calno like Carchemish? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus?" Here, Calno (Calneh) is equated with other significant cities, emphasizing its importance and the extent of Assyrian power.

3. Amos 6:2 : The prophet Amos uses Calneh as an example in his warning to Israel. "Go to Calneh and see; go from there to great Hamath; then go down to Gath of the Philistines. Are you better than these kingdoms? Is their territory greater than yours?" This passage suggests that Calneh was a notable city, whose fate served as a cautionary tale for Israel.

Historical and Archaeological Context:

Calneh's identification has been a subject of scholarly debate, with some associating it with the city of Nippur or Kulnia in northern Mesopotamia. Its mention alongside other prominent cities of the ancient Near East underscores its significance during the time of the Assyrian Empire. The city's inclusion in the biblical narrative highlights its role in the broader geopolitical landscape of the region.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Calneh serves as a symbol of human ambition and the rise and fall of empires. Its association with Nimrod, a figure often linked with rebellion against God, and its later mention in prophetic literature, underscores themes of divine judgment and the transient nature of earthly power. The references to Calneh in the prophetic books serve as a reminder of the consequences of pride and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the nations.

In summary, Calneh, also known as Canneh and Calno, is a city of historical and prophetic importance in the Bible. Its mentions in Genesis, Isaiah, and Amos provide insight into its role in ancient history and its theological implications within the biblical narrative.Genesis 10:10
And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar.
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Isaiah 10:9
Is not Calno as Carchemish? is not Hamath as Arpad? is not Samaria as Damascus?
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Ezekiel 27:23
Haran, and Canneh, and Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad, were your merchants.
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Amos 6:2
Pass you to Calneh, and see; and from there go you to Hamath the great: then go down to Gath of the Philistines: be they better than these kingdoms? or their border greater than your border?
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