Original Word: אָנַס
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: anac
Pronunciation: ah-nahs
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-nas')
Definition: To compel, to force, to oppress
Meaning: to insist b>

compel

To insist -- compel.

Word Origin
a prim. root
Definition
to compel, constrain
NASB Translation
compulsion (1).

[אָנַס] verb compel, constrain (late, often Mishna id., Aramaic אֲנַם, ) —

Qal Participle אֵין אֹנֵס namely, to drink Esther 1:8 ("" כִּרְצוֺן אִישׁ וָאִישׁ).

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The corresponding Greek entry in Strong's Concordance is G101, ἄγκυρα (ankura), which means "anchor." While the Greek term does not directly translate to the concept of compulsion, it metaphorically represents stability and security, contrasting with the Hebrew notion of being compelled or forced. The Greek term is used in the New Testament to symbolize hope and steadfastness, as seen in Hebrews 6:19: "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." This contrast highlights the different ways in which the concepts of force and stability are expressed in the biblical languages.

Usage: The verb אָנַס is used in the context of exerting pressure or force, often implying a sense of compulsion or insistence. It is not frequently used in the Hebrew Bible, but when it appears, it conveys a strong sense of urgency or necessity.

Context: The Hebrew verb אָנַס (anas) is a primitive root that carries the meaning of compelling or forcing someone to do something. This term is used in contexts where an individual is made to act against their will or under pressure. The concept of compulsion in the Hebrew Bible often relates to situations where human will is overridden by external forces or circumstances, reflecting a broader theological theme of divine sovereignty and human agency.

In the biblical narrative, the use of אָנַס can be seen in situations where individuals are compelled by circumstances or by other people to take certain actions. This reflects the tension between human freedom and the constraints imposed by external factors, a recurring theme in biblical literature.

The verb is not commonly found in the Hebrew Bible, which suggests that its usage is reserved for specific contexts where the notion of compulsion is particularly significant. The rarity of the term underscores the gravity of situations where it is applied, highlighting moments of intense pressure or necessity.

אֹנֵ֑ס אנס ’ō·nês ’ōnês oNesInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts