The word "Kenites" is pronounced /ˈkɛnaɪts/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The spelling of the word consists of two syllables: "Ke-" and "-nites". The first syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by a stressed long "i" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, then a voiceless "t" sound, and finally, a vowel sound that is similar to "uh" or "ih". This biblical term refers to a nomadic tribe mentioned in the Old Testament.
The Kenites were an ancient group of people mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. Derived from the Hebrew word "Qeyni," meaning "smith," the term "Kenites" referred to a semi-nomadic people who were renowned for their metalworking skills and often worked as metalworkers, smiths, or craftsmen.
In the biblical narrative, the Kenites are portrayed as a distinct group within the larger Israelite community. They were believed to have descended from Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, who himself was a Midianite. Jethro is depicted as having a positive relationship with Moses and providing wise counsel to him.
The Kenites are often seen as allies of the Israelites. They became associated with the Israelites during the time when Moses led the Israelites through the wilderness and settled in the region of the Promised Land. The Kenites, due to their close relationship with the Israelites, lived among them and assimilated into their community. They played a supportive role, offering guidance, assistance, and sharing their specialized knowledge, particularly in metalworking.
Throughout the biblical accounts, the Kenites are portrayed as a peaceful and industrious people who were well-regarded for their skills and wisdom. While their mention in the Hebrew Bible is relatively limited, they held a significant place within the Israelite community due to their unique attributes and close connections with influential figures like Moses. The term "Kenites" is still occasionally used to refer to ancient metalworkers or craftsmen in general due to their association with such skills in biblical times.
The word "Kenites" originates from a biblical context and is derived from the Hebrew word "Qeyni" (קֵינִי). In the Old Testament, the Kenites are mentioned as a distinct group or tribe presumably associated with or descended from Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. The exact etymology of the Hebrew word "Qeyni" is uncertain, but it is often interpreted as meaning "smiths" or "metalworkers". The Kenites were often identified as nomadic or semi-nomadic people engaged in various trades, including metalworking and craftsmanship.