Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 36:24 mean when it says 'Ana found the hot springs in the wilderness'?
A: According to Rashi, this verse highlights Ana's discovery of the 'yemim' (hot springs or possibly mules) while tending to his father's donkeys. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah) suggests this was a significant discovery, possibly referring to natural resources or a rare find in the desert. It teaches that even mundane tasks (like shepherding) can lead to important discoveries.
Q: Why is Ana mentioned specifically in the genealogy of Seir?
A: The Talmud (Pesachim 54a) notes that Ana is singled out because his discovery of the hot springs (or mules) was noteworthy. Ramban explains that genealogies often highlight individuals who accomplished something unique. In Ana's case, his resourcefulness in the wilderness earned him a special mention in the Torah's record of Esav's descendants.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Ana finding the hot springs while tending donkeys?
A: The verse teaches that Hash-m can bring blessings and discoveries even during ordinary work. As the Sforno explains, Ana was faithfully doing his job (watching his father's donkeys) when he made his discovery. This reminds us that diligence in our daily tasks can lead to unexpected rewards, as Hash-m guides our paths even in the 'wilderness' of routine life.
Q: What are the 'yemim' that Ana found in the desert?
A: Rashi offers two interpretations: 1) 'Yemim' refers to hot springs (from the word 'mayim,' water), meaning Ana discovered natural thermal waters in the wilderness. 2) Alternatively, 'yemim' refers to mules (a hybrid animal), suggesting Ana pioneered their breeding. The Ibn Ezra supports the 'hot springs' interpretation, noting their value in arid regions.
Q: How does this verse connect to the broader context of Genesis 36?
A: Genesis 36 lists the descendants of Esav (Esau) who became the Edomite nation. As the Ramban explains, mentioning Ana's discovery shows how Esav's family developed resources and prospered in Seir. The Sages note that even these genealogical details carry lessons—here, about human ingenuity and Hash-m's providence in sustaining all nations.
Context in Sefer Bereishit
The verse appears in Bereishit 36:24 as part of the genealogy of Esav (Esau), detailing the descendants of Ziv'on (Żiv῾on). The mention of 'Ana discovering the yemim (hot springs) while tending to his father's donkeys is an unusual detail in a genealogical list, prompting commentary from our Sages.
Meaning of "Yemim"
Rashi explains that yemim refers to "hot springs" (meimim chamim), based on the Targum Onkelos rendering it as gavhin (warm waters). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 82:15) elaborates that 'Ana discovered these springs while wandering in the wilderness, suggesting Divine providence in revealing natural resources.
Symbolism of Donkeys
The Ibn Ezra notes that the mention of donkeys (chamorim) is significant. Donkeys symbolize material wealth (as in Bereishit 34:23), implying that 'Ana was engaged in honest labor to sustain his family. The Ramban adds that this detail emphasizes how even mundane activities like shepherding can lead to significant discoveries.
An Alternative Interpretation
The Talmud (Pesachim 54a) offers a homiletic reading: 'Ana found "mules" (yemim as a variant of yemim meaning hybrids), suggesting he pioneered crossbreeding donkeys with horses. This interpretation is debated, with Rashi rejecting it in favor of the "hot springs" explanation.
Moral Lesson