עָנֵר (a.ner)
a.ner
Aner
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The proper noun Aner refers to two distinct entities in the Hebrew Bible, both rooted in the same name. In Genesis 14:13, it identifies a specific individual: an Amorite chief and ally of Abraham. This Aner is mentioned alongside his brothers Eshcol and Mamre as they join forces with Abraham to rescue Lot from invading kings. The sources suggest the name means "boy," which may reflect a familial designation or status within that patriarchal narrative.
A second, less prominent usage appears in Joshua 21:26, where Aner is listed as a Levitical city allotted to the Kohathite clans in the tribe of Manasseh. Some scholars note this location might be another name for Taanach, west of the Jordan. While the personal figure appears only twice in Scripture, his role highlights the complex alliances Abraham formed during that era.
Both references underscore the importance of kinship and territorial inheritance in early Israelite history. Whether a person or a place, the name anchors a moment of covenantal relationship or priestly provision. The brevity of its occurrence leaves much to the historical context, yet it remains a clear marker of Abraham’s extended network.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Aner appears in Genesis as part of the close network surrounding Abraham. He is described as a brother to Eshcol and Mamre, allies who stood with Abram during a time of crisis. This connection shows that faith often grows within community, supported by those who share our values and history.
When Abram refused to take spoil from the king, he specifically set aside portions for Aner and his companions. This act highlights the importance of honoring those who help us. It reminds us that relationships built on mutual respect and shared purpose are valuable gifts in our spiritual journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Aner2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עָנֵר֙1×
- עָנֵ֔ר1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 14:13
One who had escaped came and told Abram, the Hebrew. At that time, he lived by the oaks of Mamre, the Amorite, brother of Eshcol and brother of Aner. They were allies of Abram.
This verse introduces Aner as a key ally of Abram, establishing his role within the patriarch's extended family network.
-
Genesis 14:24
I will accept nothing from you except that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre. Let them take their portion.”
Here Abram explicitly names Aner when dividing the spoils, showing respect for the contribution of his allies.