ענן

Anan is an ancient and unique Hebrew name that carries profound meanings and fascinating cultural layers. The name derives from the Hebrew root A.N.N and its literal meaning is 'cloud' - that ethereal floating body composed of water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the sky. But beyond its simple meaning, the name Anan contains rich symbolism connected to divine presence, mystery, and the connection between the earthly and the heavenly. In Hebrew culture, the cloud is not merely a natural phenomenon - it is a symbol of God's presence, spiritual leadership, and divine protection. In the Bible, the cloud plays a central role as a symbol of divine presence. The pillar of cloud accompanied the Israelites in the desert for forty years, guiding them on their way and protecting them from their enemies. When Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive the tablets of the covenant, a cloud covered the mountain and formed a barrier between the sacred and the profane. The Book of Exodus recounts: 'Then a cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.' The cloud was a sign of the Divine Presence, and its appearance symbolized divine revelation. In prophetic visions too, the cloud appears as a central element - in Ezekiel's vision, divine glory is revealed from within a great cloud and flashing fire. Thus the cloud became a symbol of sacred mystery, of the boundary between the visible and the hidden, between the known and the unknown. The name Anan also carries the meaning of protection and shelter. The Book of Psalms states: 'He spread a cloud for a covering' - God spreads a cloud as a screen protecting His people. This meaning transforms the name into an expression of security and a sense of being protected. In ancient times, the cloud provided shade from the scorching desert sun and was a source of water during the rainy season. Thus it became a symbol of blessing, of life, and of divine grace. The Talmud contains discussions about 'clouds of glory' - seven clouds that surrounded Israel in the desert, protected them, straightened the path before them, and lifted them above dangers. One who bears the name Anan thus carries a name that evokes divine protection, supreme guidance, and constant spiritual accompaniment. This is a name that imparts a sense of security and connection to the sacred sources of the Jewish people, while maintaining a gentle and poetic character connected to nature and the heavens.

עָנָן

Anan | Annan

Boy

No

Exodus 40:34 - Then a cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle

In Kabbalah, the cloud symbolizes divine tzimtzum - the concealment that enables revelation. The cloud is a thin veil separating the upper and lower worlds, allowing divine light to penetrate in a measured way that the world can receive. The name Anan represents the ability to serve as a mediator between high spirituality and earthly reality.

170

8

Anan ben David (Talmudic figure) | Anan the Egyptian (ancient sage)

אמנון | ענת | עדן | אלון