In the midst of this genealogy of the Edomites here is inserted the
genealogy of the Horites, those Canaanites, or Hittites (compare ch.
xxvi. 34), that were the natives of Mount Seir. Mention is made of
them, ch. xiv. 6, and of their interest in Mount Seir, before the
Edomites took possession of it, Deut. ii. 12, 22. This comes in here,
not only to give light to the story, but to be a standing reflection
upon the Edomites for intermarrying with them, by which, it is
probable, they learned their way, and corrupted themselves. Esau having
sold his birthright, and lost his blessing, and entered into alliance
with the Hittites, his posterity and the sons of Seir are here reckoned
together. Note, Those that treacherously desert God's church are justly
numbered with those that were never in it; apostate Edomites stand on
the same ground with accursed Horites. Particular notice is taken of
one Anah who fed the asses of Zibeon his father (v. 24), and yet is
called duke Anah, v. 29. Note, Those that expect to rise high should
begin low. An honourable descent should not keep men from an honest
employment, nor a mean employment hinder any man's preferment. This
Anah was not only industrious in his business, but ingenious too, and
successful; for he found mules, or (as some read it) waters, hot-baths,
in the wilderness. Those that are diligent in their business sometimes
find more advantages than they expected.