Aner is a notable figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is recognized as a Canaanitish chief who played a significant role during the time of Abram (later known as Abraham). Aner is primarily known for his alliance with Abram in a military campaign to rescue Lot, Abram's nephew.

Biblical Account

The primary biblical reference to Aner is found in Genesis 14. In this chapter, a coalition of four kings, led by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, invades the region of Canaan and defeats several local kings, including the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah. During this conflict, Lot, who was living in Sodom, is taken captive along with his possessions.

Upon hearing of his nephew's capture, Abram mobilizes his trained men and forms an alliance with three local chiefs: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre. Together, they pursue the invading kings and successfully defeat them, rescuing Lot and recovering the plunder. Genesis 14:13-14 states: "Then a fugitive came and reported this to Abram the Hebrew. Now Abram was living near the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, a brother of Eshcol and Aner, all of whom were bound by treaty to Abram. And when Abram heard that his relative had been captured, he mobilized the 318 trained men born in his household, and they set out in pursuit as far as Dan."

Role and Significance

Aner's role as an ally of Abram highlights the importance of strategic alliances in the ancient Near East. His willingness to join Abram in the rescue mission demonstrates a level of trust and cooperation between the Canaanite chiefs and Abram, who was a foreigner in the land. This alliance underscores the respect and influence Abram had among the local leaders, despite being a sojourner.

The mention of Aner, along with Eshcol and Mamre, also provides insight into the social and political landscape of Canaan during this period. These chiefs were likely leaders of their respective clans or tribes, and their collaboration with Abram suggests a network of relationships that transcended ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the context of the ancient Near East, tribal alliances were crucial for survival and protection against common enemies. The narrative of Aner and his alliance with Abram reflects the complex dynamics of inter-tribal relations and the necessity of forming coalitions for mutual benefit. Aner's participation in the military campaign against the coalition of kings illustrates the fluid nature of political alliances and the shifting power structures of the time.

Legacy

While Aner is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the account of Abram's rescue of Lot serves to highlight the broader theme of divine providence and protection. The successful outcome of the campaign is attributed to God's favor upon Abram, as seen in Genesis 14:20 : "And blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand." Aner's involvement in this event, therefore, contributes to the unfolding account of God's covenant relationship with Abram and the eventual establishment of the nation of Israel.Genesis 14:13,24
And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelled in the plain of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner: and these were confederate with Abram.
Nave's Topical Index

The Book of Jubilees
... Kiriath Arbok for Kirjath-Arba, Aunan for Aner (Genesis 14 ... of the wives of all the
chief patriarchs are ... preferred to take one from the Canaanitish relations of ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of jubilees.htm

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