Original Word: שִׂטְנָה
Part of Speech: Noun Feminine
Transliteration: sitnah
Pronunciation: sit-NAH
Phonetic Spelling: (sit-naw')
Definition: Enmity, hostility, opposition
Meaning: opposition

accusation

From satan; opposition (by letter) -- accusation.

see HEBREW satan

Word Origin
from the same as satan
Definition
accusation
NASB Translation
accusation (1).

I. שִׂטְנָה noun feminine accusation; — Ezra 4:6.

Word Origin: Derived from the root שָׂטַן (satan), which means "to oppose" or "to be an adversary."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • G1992 (epistolē): While not a direct translation, the Greek term G1992, meaning "letter" or "epistle," can be related in the sense of conveying messages that may include opposition or contention, as seen in some New Testament contexts where letters address disputes or doctrinal challenges within the early church. However, it is important to note that the Greek term does not carry the same meaning of "opposition" as שִׂטְנָה.

Usage: The word שִׂטְנָה appears in the Hebrew Bible in contexts where there is active opposition or contention. It is specifically used in Genesis 26:21 to describe the conflict over a well.

Context: • Biblical Context: The term שִׂטְנָה is found in Genesis 26:21, where it is used to name a well that Isaac's servants dug. The well was named "Sitnah" because the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac's herdsmen over it, representing a place of contention and opposition. This incident is part of a larger narrative where Isaac faces repeated opposition from the Philistines, who are envious of his prosperity and seek to obstruct his efforts by filling the wells dug by his father, Abraham.
• Theological Significance: The naming of the well "Sitnah" highlights the theme of opposition faced by God's people. Despite the contention, Isaac continues to move forward, eventually finding a place where he can dwell in peace. This reflects the broader biblical theme of perseverance in the face of adversity and the faithfulness of God in providing for His people.
• Cultural and Historical Insights: In the ancient Near Eastern context, wells were vital for survival, especially in arid regions. Control over water sources was a significant issue, often leading to disputes. The narrative underscores the importance of water rights and the challenges faced by nomadic tribes in securing resources.

שִׂטְנָ֔ה שטנה śiṭ·nāh sitNah śiṭnāhInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts