[ad. Heb. k’nasan.] The ancient proper name of Western Palestine, promised to the Children of Israel; hence fig. (esp. in hymns and devotional use) land of promise, land of heavenly rest across the Jordan of death, heaven.
1637. T. Morton (title), New English Canaan.
1772. W. Williams, Hymn, ‘Guide me O thou great Jehovah.’ Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
1807. Southey, Espriella’s Lett. (1814), III. 328. It [Spain] is also the Canaan of Physicians.
