Hanes is a location mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Isaiah. It is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning the futility of seeking help from Egypt. The mention of Hanes is found in Isaiah 30:4, which states: "For though their princes are at Zoan and their envoys have arrived in Hanes" . This passage is part of a larger narrative where the prophet Isaiah warns the people of Judah against relying on Egypt for military assistance against the Assyrian threat, emphasizing that such reliance is contrary to God's will.

Geographical and Historical Context

Hanes is believed to be a city in ancient Egypt, although its exact location remains uncertain. Some scholars suggest that Hanes might be identified with the ancient city of Heracleopolis, known in Egyptian as Hnes. Heracleopolis was situated in Middle Egypt, near the entrance to the Fayum region, and served as a significant administrative and religious center during various periods of Egyptian history.

The mention of Hanes alongside Zoan (known as Tanis in Greek), another prominent city in the Nile Delta, suggests that Hanes was an important location, possibly serving as a political or diplomatic hub. The envoys from Judah traveling to Hanes indicate that it was a place where diplomatic negotiations or alliances were sought, particularly in the context of seeking military aid.

Biblical Significance

The reference to Hanes in Isaiah 30:4 is part of a broader critique by the prophet Isaiah against forming alliances with foreign powers instead of trusting in the Lord. The people of Judah, facing the threat of Assyrian invasion, were tempted to seek the protection of Egypt, a powerful nation with a formidable military. However, Isaiah's message underscores the futility and danger of such alliances, as they represent a lack of faith in God's provision and protection.

Isaiah 30:1-5 elaborates on this theme, with the prophet declaring: "Woe to the obstinate children, declares the LORD, who carry out a plan that is not Mine, forming an alliance, but against My will, heaping up sin upon sin. They set out to go down to Egypt without consulting Me, to seek help from Pharaoh’s protection and take refuge in Egypt’s shadow. But Pharaoh’s protection will become your shame, and the refuge of Egypt’s shadow your disgrace. For though their princes are at Zoan and their envoys have arrived in Hanes, everyone will be put to shame because of a people who cannot benefit them, who bring neither help nor advantage, but only shame and disgrace" .

Theological Implications

The mention of Hanes serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on God rather than human powers or alliances. The narrative illustrates the broader biblical theme of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and guidance. The people of Judah are admonished for their lack of faith and their inclination to seek security through worldly means, which ultimately leads to disappointment and failure.

In the context of Isaiah's prophecy, Hanes symbolizes the misplaced trust in human strength and the consequences of ignoring divine counsel. The passage encourages believers to place their confidence in God, who is the ultimate source of protection and deliverance.Isaiah 30:4
For his princes were at Zoan, and his ambassadors came to Hanes.
Nave's Topical Index

2609. Chanes -- a place in Egypt
... NASB Word Usage Hanes (1). Hanes. Of Egyptian derivation; Chanes, a place in Egypt --
Hanes. 2608b, 2609. Chanes. 2610 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/2609.htm - 5k

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... Hanes."Tr.] you shall all be ashamed of a people ... of the Sinaitic peninsula, who were
vassals of Egypt. The encounter took place near Altaku,** and on this ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm

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