Anas (אָנַס) is a verb meaning to press, compel, or constrain someone against their will. It appears in Esther 1:8 describing that drinking at the royal feast was not compulsory — "no one was compelled" to drink. The root captures the idea of external force overriding a person's free choice.
The single occurrence of anas in Esther 1:8 is notable: even the pagan king Ahasuerus did not compel his guests to drink, each drinking "according to his own wish." This forms a striking contrast with God's design for human freedom. God throughout Scripture invites rather than compels — "choose this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). Love cannot be coerced; covenant relationship requires willing response.