I am working through Genesis and noticed a name that had not stuck in previous readings. His name is Anah. The reading in Genesis 36 references him in two verses:
These are the sons of Zibeon: Aiah and Anah; he is the Anah who found the hot springs in the wilderness, as he pastured the donkeys of Zibeon his father.
These are the chiefs of the Horites: the chiefs Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah…
Genesis 36:24, 29
He is singled out for his capabilities to be resourceful. Matthew Henry offers a lengthy praise for Anah in his Genesis commentary:
Particular notice is taken of one Anah who fed the asses of Zibeon his father (Gen. 36:24), and yet is called duke Anah, Gen. 36:29. Note, Those that expect to rise high should begin low. An honourable descent should not keep men from an honest employment, nor a mean employment hinder any man’s preferment. This Anah was not only industrious in his business, but ingenious too, and successful; for he found mules, or (as some read it) waters, hot-baths, in the wilderness. Those that are diligent in their business sometimes find more advantages than they expected.
Matthew Henry
The name itself. עָנָה is probably translated “answer.” In Israel’s wilderness testing, he was their answer. He wasn’t content with the status quo, but went above and beyond as a leader/duke to provide for his people.
