Biblica Analytica

זָנַב

za.nav (H2179)

to cut off the tail

2 verses 2 books OT 2 / NT 0
AI Word Study

The Hebrew word "za.nav" (strong's number H2179) refers to the physical action of cutting off an animal's tail. This action is the core meaning of the word, and its semantic domain is categorized as a "Physical Action." The word occurs twice in the Bible, indicating a limited range of usage but a deliberate emphasis on its significance. The physical action of cutting off a tail may have been performed for various reasons, such as to prevent further injury, to signify a change in status, or to denote a rite of passage. The brevity and specificity of the word "za.nav" suggest that it was a common term used in everyday life, particularly in agricultural or pastoral contexts where animals required regular management. In its limited occurrences in the Bible, "za.nav" may hold significance as a concise but telling example of human interaction with the natural world. The fact that this action is worthy of note suggests that tail cutting was seen as a meaningful or significant event, and its appearance in the biblical text may hold implications for our understanding of ancient practices and cultural values.

AI synthesis uses only provided lexicon data -- never training knowledge.

Deuteronomy 25:18

how he met you by the way, and struck the rearmost of you, all who were feeble behind you, when you were faint and weary; and he didn’t fear God.

Joshua 10:19

but don’t stay there. Pursue your enemies, and attack them from the rear. Don’t allow them to enter into their cities; for Yahweh your God has delivered them into your hand.”