Original Word: כָּנַף
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: kanaph
Pronunciation: kah-NAHF
Phonetic Spelling: (kaw-naf')
Definition: Wing, edge, extremity, corner
Meaning: to project laterally, to withdraw

be removed

A primitive root; properly, to project laterally, i.e. Probably (reflexive) to withdraw -- be removed.

Word Origin
denominative verb from kanaph
Definition
to be cornered or thrust into a corner
NASB Translation
hide (1).

[כָּנַף] verb denominative from כָּנָף 2 only

Niph`al be cornered, thrust into a corner, or aside; — Imperfect3masculine singular וְלֹא יִכָּנֵף עוֺד מוֺרֶי֔ךָ Isaiah 30:20 and no more shall thy teachers be thrust into a corner (compare Di); > others, who render hide themselves, (compare Arabic enclose, guard, but this rather for protection).

כנר (possibly √ of following; meaning unknown).

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of spreading or extending, as well as the metaphorical use of wings for protection, can be related to Greek terms such as πτέρυξ (pteryx • G4420), which means "wing," and is used in similar contexts in the New Testament to convey protection and covering.

Usage: The verb כָּנַף (kanaph) is used in the Hebrew Bible to describe the action of spreading out or extending laterally, often in the context of wings or garments. It can also imply the act of withdrawing or concealing.

Context: The Hebrew root כָּנַף (kanaph) primarily conveys the idea of spreading or extending, particularly in relation to wings or garments. This term is often associated with the imagery of protection and covering, as seen in various biblical passages. For instance, the spreading of wings is a common metaphor for divine protection and care, as illustrated in passages like Psalm 91:4, "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge."

In the context of garments, כָּנַף can refer to the edge or corner of a garment, which holds cultural and symbolic significance in biblical narratives. For example, in Ruth 3:9, Ruth asks Boaz to "spread the corner of your garment over me," symbolizing a request for protection and redemption.

The concept of withdrawing is also inherent in the term, suggesting a movement away or a concealing action. This duality of meaning—both extending and withdrawing—reflects the dynamic nature of the word in its various scriptural applications.

The term is used metaphorically to describe God's protective nature, as well as in literal descriptions of physical actions involving wings or garments. Its usage underscores themes of shelter, refuge, and divine care throughout the biblical text.

יִכָּנֵ֥ף יכנף yik·kā·nêp̄ yikkaNef yikkānêp̄Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts