Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Anan is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is listed among the descendants of the people of Israel who returned from the Babylonian exile. Anan's name appears in the context of the covenant renewal led by Nehemiah, a significant event in the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.Biblical References: 1. Nehemiah 10:26 : Anan is mentioned as one of the signatories of the covenant in Nehemiah 10. This chapter details the solemn agreement made by the leaders, Levites, and priests to follow the Law of God given through Moses. The covenant was a commitment to live according to God's commandments, separate from the surrounding peoples, and support the temple services. Anan's inclusion in this list indicates his role as a leader or representative of the people during this critical period of reformation and spiritual renewal. Historical and Cultural Context: The return from Babylonian exile marked a pivotal moment in Jewish history. Under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish community sought to reestablish their identity and religious practices centered around the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem. The covenant renewal was a public declaration of their dedication to God's laws and a rejection of the idolatrous practices that had led to their exile. Anan's participation in this covenant signifies his commitment to the spiritual and communal restoration of Israel. The act of signing the covenant was not merely a personal commitment but a public and communal declaration of faithfulness to God. It underscored the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the purity and distinctiveness of the Jewish faith and community. Theological Significance: The mention of Anan in the context of the covenant renewal highlights several theological themes: · Covenant Faithfulness: Anan's role as a signatory emphasizes the importance of covenant faithfulness in the life of God's people. The covenant was a binding agreement that required adherence to God's commandments and a commitment to live as His chosen people. · Community and Leadership: Anan's inclusion among the leaders who signed the covenant underscores the role of leadership in guiding and upholding the spiritual and moral standards of the community. It reflects the biblical principle that leaders are called to set an example and lead their people in righteousness. · Restoration and Renewal: The post-exilic period was a time of restoration and renewal for Israel. Anan's participation in the covenant renewal signifies the hope and determination of the Jewish people to rebuild their lives and their relationship with God after the exile. In summary, Anan's mention in the book of Nehemiah, though brief, is significant in understanding the collective efforts of the Jewish community to restore their covenant relationship with God during a crucial period in their history. His role as a signatory of the covenant reflects the broader themes of faithfulness, leadership, and communal responsibility in the biblical narrative. Smith's Bible Dictionary Anan(a cloud), one of the "heads of the people" who signed the covenant with Nehemiah. (Nehemiah 10:26) (B.C. 410.) Easton's Bible Dictionary Cloud, one of the Israelites who sealed the covenant after the return from Babylon (Nehemiah 10:26). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (interj.) An expression equivalent to What did you say? Sir? Eh?International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ANANa'-nan (`anan, "cloud"): Strong's Hebrew 6052. Anan -- an Israelite... 6051, 6052. Anan. 6053 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Anan Phonetic Spelling: (aw-nawn') Short Definition: Anan. Word Origin from anan Definition an Isr. ... /hebrew/6052.htm - 6k 6049. anan -- to practice soothsaying 7487. ra'anan -- to be or grow luxuriant, fresh, or green 6051. anan -- a cloud mass, cloud 6050. anan -- a cloud 6049b. anan -- to bring a cloud 596. anan -- to complain, murmur 6049a. anan -- to practice soothsaying 7946. shalanan -- being at ease 6799. Tsenan -- a place in the Shephelah of Judah Library Abgar Sends Princes to Marinus; These Deputies See Our Saviour ... Answer to Abgar's Letter, which the Apostle Thomas Wrote to this ... Some Other Memorable Places of the City. In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord Thesaurus Anan (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ANAN. a'-nan (`anan, "cloud"): (1) One of those who, with Nehemiah, sealed the covenant (Nehemiah 10:26). ...Anan (1 Occurrence). ... /a/anan.htm - 7k Za'anan (1 Occurrence) Za-anan'nim (2 Occurrences) Zaanan (1 Occurrence) Zaanannim (2 Occurrences) Flourish (26 Occurrences) Ease (46 Occurrences) Zebulun (46 Occurrences) Zaavan (2 Occurrences) Resources Anan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Anan (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 10:26 Subtopics Anan: A Jew, Returned from Babylonian Captivity Related Terms |