Zano'ah is a biblical town mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the tribal territory of Judah. It holds historical and theological significance within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the post-exilic period and the restoration efforts led by Nehemiah.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 15:34 · Zano'ah is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. It is listed among the towns in the Shephelah, or the lowland region, which was a fertile area conducive to agriculture. The verse states: "Zanoah, En-gannim, Tappuah, Enam."

2. Nehemiah 3:13 · During the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah's leadership, the men of Zano'ah played a significant role. The verse records: "Hanun and the residents of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and installed its doors, bolts, and bars. They also repaired a thousand cubits of the wall as far as the Dung Gate." This highlights the town's active participation in the communal effort to restore Jerusalem, reflecting their commitment to the covenant community and the worship of Yahweh.

3. Nehemiah 11:30 · Zano'ah is mentioned again in the context of the resettlement of the people of Judah after the Babylonian exile. The verse notes: "Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages; they lived from Beersheba to the Valley of Hinnom." This indicates that Zano'ah was part of the broader effort to repopulate and restore the land of Judah, emphasizing the continuity of the Jewish presence in the region.

Historical and Archaeological Insights:

Zano'ah is identified with the modern site of Khirbet Zanu', located southwest of Jerusalem. Archaeological findings in the area have provided insights into the life and culture of the inhabitants during the biblical period. The town's location in the Shephelah made it strategically important, serving as a buffer zone between the coastal plains and the hill country of Judah.

Theological Significance:

Zano'ah's mention in the context of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls underscores the theme of restoration and renewal that is central to the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The participation of its residents in this monumental task reflects the collective effort of the Jewish people to reestablish their identity and religious practices after the exile. It serves as a testament to the faithfulness and resilience of the covenant community in the face of adversity.

In summary, Zano'ah is a town that, while not frequently mentioned, plays a crucial role in the narrative of Judah's restoration. Its contributions to the rebuilding efforts in Nehemiah's time highlight the importance of community and faith in the life of ancient Israel.Zano'ah (4 Occurrences)

Joshua 15:34
and Zanoah, and En-gannim, Tappuah, and Enam;
(See RSV)

Joshua 15:56
and Jezreel, and Jokdeam, and Zanoah;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 3:13
The valley gate repaired Hanun, and the inhabitants of Zanoah; they built it, and set up the doors thereof, the bolts thereof, and the bars thereof, and a thousand cubits of the wall unto the dung gate.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 11:30
Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages, Lachish and the fields thereof, Azekah and the towns thereof. So they encamped from Beer-sheba unto the valley of Hinnom.
(See RSV)

Zano'ah (4 Occurrences)
Zano'ah. Zanoah, Zano'ah. Zaphenathpaneah . Multi-Version Concordance
Zano'ah (4 Occurrences). Joshua 15:34 and Zanoah, and En-gannim ...
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Zanoah (5 Occurrences)

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Zaphenathpaneah

/z/zaphenathpaneah.htm - 6k

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