אֶשְׁנָב
𐤀𐤔𐤍𐤁
ʼeshnâb
H822 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A window fitted with latticework, typically an opening in a wall or building closed off with a decorative or functional grid of strips (wood, metal, or similar material) rather than with glass. The word denotes architectural features allowing light and air into a structure, while providing limited privacy or security.
Semantic Range
latticed window, window with a lattice, casement, architectural opening with a screen or grille
Root / Etymology
The root is א-ש-נ-ב (uncertain/unattested as a verb in Biblical Hebrew). The form אֶשְׁנָב likely derives from a noun pattern based on this unattested root. The sense connects to the idea of an opening or perforation, but the specific etymology remains uncertain.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term אֶשְׁנָב appears only a handful of times in the Hebrew Bible (notably in Judges 5:28 and Proverbs 7:6). In context, it refers to a window with a lattice or screen—an architectural element common in Levantine and Near Eastern construction used to provide ventilation, limit direct viewing into private spaces, and protect those inside. In later Hebrew and some modern translations, it can be rendered as 'lattice,' 'window,' or 'casement,' but the ancient feature differs from modern glazed or glass windows. The Akkadian cognate 'iṣnubu' also refers to a window or opening in a wall, suggesting this architectural feature was widespread throughout the ancient Near East. At times, later translations equate it with general 'windows,' but the ancient term is narrower, not referring to glass panes but rather to screened or latticed apertures. No theological or cultic significance is attached to this term; its usage is purely architectural and descriptive. It contrasts with חַלּוֹן (ḥallon, 'window'), which can refer to more general or broader kinds of windows/openings, but אֶשְׁנָב specifically points to the latticework aspect.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
apparently from an unused root (probably meaning to leave interstices); a latticed window; casement, lattice.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
אשנב (ʾ-š-n-b) — to leave interstices, to perforate, to form a lattice
Word Forms
2 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H822-01 |
אֶשְׁנַבִּ֣/י | eshenabi | HNcmsc/Sp1cs |
my lattice | my latticed window | 1 |
H822-02 |
הָֽ/אֶשְׁנָ֑ב | haeshenav | HTd/Ncmsa |
the lattice | the latticed window | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H822-02 |
Judges 5:28 | הָֽ/אֶשְׁנָ֑ב | haeshenav | HTd/Ncmsa |
the lattice | the latticed window |
H822-01 |
Proverbs 7:6 | אֶשְׁנַבִּ֣/י | eshenabi | HNcmsc/Sp1cs |
my lattice | my latticed window |