Kinan comes from the root k-n-n of shelter and protection: lexicographers define kinan as “that which covers and protects anything”, a veil or covering (plural akinna). The name thus evokes a safe shelter. It is close to Kinana, “quiver”, which is also the name of the ancestor of the tribe of Quraysh. Very popular in Syria, Jordan and Palestine, it is often written Kenan; the Turkish name Kenan is a different one, from Kenʿan (Canaan).
And Allāh has made for you, from that which He has created, shadows [i.e., shade] and has made for you from the mountains, shelters and has made for you garments which protect you from the heat and garments [i.e., coats of mail] which protect you from your [enemy in] battle. Thus does He complete His favor upon you that you might submit [to Him].
