probably for נַעַר; Aner, a Amorite, also a place in Palestine; Aner.
Transliteration:ʻÂnêr
Pronunciation:aw-nare'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6063}}` (ʻÂnêr), transliterated as Aner, functions exclusively as a proper noun within the biblical text. Its base definition suggests a probable etymological connection to `{{H5288}}` (na'ar), meaning "boy," "youth," or "servant." However, this proposed derivation does not directly inform the meaning of Aner as a proper noun, which designates specific entities rather than conveying a descriptive quality. As a proper noun, Aner refers to two distinct biblical referents:
1. An Amorite chieftain, an ally of Abraham.
2. A city in the territory of Manasseh, designated as a Levitical city.
Thus, its semantic range is limited to these specific historical and geographical entities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H6063}}` appears in two primary contexts within the Old Testament, representing the two distinct referents:
1. **Aner the Amorite Chieftain:**
* In [[Genesis 14:13]], Aner is introduced alongside Eshcol and Mamre as one of the Amorite confederates of Abram. These three chieftains had a covenant with Abram, indicating a significant regional alliance.
* [[Genesis 14:24]] reaffirms Aner's participation in the pursuit of the kings who had captured Lot. After the successful rescue, Abram ensures that Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre receive their share of the spoils, demonstrating the terms of their alliance and Abram's integrity. This context highlights Aner's role as a military ally and a local leader in the region of Hebron.
2. **Aner the Levitical City:**
* In [[Joshua 21:28]], Aner is listed as one of the cities given to the families of the sons of Kohath who remained, from the half-tribe of Manasseh. This indicates a town designated for the Levites, alongside Bileam, for their residence and pasturage. This occurrence places Aner within the broader framework of the tribal allotments and the provision for the Levitical priesthood throughout the land of Israel. It is important to note that textual variants exist for some Levitical cities, but Aner is clearly attested in this context in the Masoretic Text.
These occurrences demonstrate Aner as both a personal name associated with early patriarchal history and a place name within the later Israelite settlement, reflecting the dynamic nature of biblical geography and personal nomenclature.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H6063}}` is primarily a proper noun, its biblical contexts connect it to several broader concepts:
* **`{{H5288}}` (na'ar):** As noted in the base definition, this is the proposed etymological root. While not directly semantically related to the proper noun Aner in its biblical usage, the connection, if valid, suggests a background of "youth" or "servant," perhaps hinting at the chieftain's status or origin.
* **Amorites:** The ethnic group to which Aner (the person) belonged. This connects Aner to the pre-Israelite inhabitants of Canaan, often depicted as powerful but ultimately subdued. Aner's alliance with Abraham provides a unique glimpse into the complex relationships between the patriarchs and the indigenous peoples of the land.
* **Covenant/Alliance:** Aner's relationship with Abraham is defined by a "covenant" (bᵉrît), emphasizing loyalty and mutual support in a time of conflict. This concept is central to Abraham's narrative and the broader biblical understanding of relationships.
* **Levitical Cities:** The designation of Aner as a Levitical city links it to the divinely ordained structure of Israelite society, where the Levites, without a tribal land inheritance, were dispersed throughout the land to fulfill their priestly and instructional duties. This concept underscores the theological importance of the Levites' presence for the spiritual well-being of the nation.
* **Tribal Allotments:** The placement of Aner within the half-tribe of Manasseh relates to the meticulous division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel, a key theme in the book of Joshua.
### Theological Significance
Though Aner is a relatively minor figure and place in the biblical narrative, its occurrences carry subtle theological weight:
* **Divine Providence and Protection:** Aner's alliance with Abraham in [[Genesis 14]] illustrates how God works through various means, including non-covenantal individuals, to protect His chosen ones and fulfill His promises. Abram's victory, aided by Aner, underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, even when human alliances are involved.
* **Inter-ethnic Relations:** The alliance between Abraham, the patriarch of the covenant people, and the Amorite chieftains Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre, showcases a practical, if temporary, cooperation across ethnic and religious lines for a common good (the rescue of Lot). This highlights the complex social realities of the ancient Near East and God's sovereign use of all peoples in His plan.
* **Order and Provision in the Land:** The identification of Aner as a Levitical city in [[Joshua 21]] reflects God's meticulous ordering of the Promised Land. The provision of cities for the Levites throughout Israel ensured that spiritual instruction and sacrificial worship could be accessible to all tribes, underscoring God's desire for His people to be grounded in His law and worship.
* **Historical Veracity:** The specific naming of individuals and places like Aner, even those not central to the main narrative, lends a sense of historical groundedness and precision to the biblical account, reinforcing its claim as a reliable record of God's interaction with humanity.
### Summary
`{{H6063}}` (ʻÂnêr), or Aner, is a proper noun with two distinct biblical referents: an Amorite chieftain allied with Abraham in [[Genesis 14]] and a Levitical city in the territory of Manasseh in [[Joshua 21]]. While its etymological link to `{{H5288}}` (na'ar) is suggested, its primary significance lies in its specific historical and geographical roles. Aner the chieftain exemplifies divine providence in protecting Abraham and highlights early inter-ethnic cooperation. Aner the city underscores the divinely ordained structure of the Israelite land allotment and the provision for the Levites' spiritual service. Both occurrences, though minor, contribute to the rich tapestry of biblical history, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in the details of His unfolding plan.
TRV