“Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.” — Numbers 1:15 (KJV)
The Identity of Enan
In the sacred genealogical records of the Wilderness Wanderings, Enan stands as a patriarchal figure of the tribe of Naphtali. While the scriptures do not provide a detailed biography of his personal life, his name carries significant weight as the father of Ahira, the prince and captain of the children of Naphtali during the Exodus from Egypt.
The Significance of the Name
The name Enan (Hebrew: עֵינָן) is derived from the word for “eye” or “fountain/spring.” In the biblical context, this often suggests a person of vision or someone associated with a life-giving source. Within the tribal structure of Israel, Enan represents the foundational generation that bore the burden of Egyptian bondage, yet lived to see their progeny appointed as leaders under the ministry of Moses.
The Role of His Lineage
Enan’s primary recognition in the Word of God is through his son, Ahira. As the “son of Enan,” Ahira was responsible for:
- The Census: Assisting Moses and Aaron in numbering the men of war from the tribe of Naphtali (Numbers 1:15).
- The Tabernacle Offering: Presenting the tribal gift during the dedication of the Altar, which included silver chargers, bowls, and gold spoons filled with incense (Numbers 7:78-83).
- Military Command: Leading the host of the tribe of Naphtali as they set forward in the wilderness according to their armies (Numbers 10:27).
The Legacy of Enan
Though Enan himself is not listed among those who led the march, his name is preserved in the eternal record of the Twelve Tribes. He represents the quiet, foundational strength of the faithful who provide the lineage for the leaders of God’s people. In the divine order, the “House of Enan” was integral to the strength of Naphtali, a tribe later prophesied by Jacob to be “a hind let loose” who “giveth goodly words” (Genesis 49:21).