Teman:
Teman is often associated with wisdom and might, as seen in the Book of Job, where one of Job's friends is named Eliphaz the Temanite. The region of Teman was known for its wise men and is mentioned in prophetic literature, such as in Obadiah and Jeremiah, as a place of judgment against Edom.

Omar:
Little is known about Omar, but his inclusion in the genealogy highlights the importance of family lineage in biblical narratives. The name Omar means "eloquent" or "speaker," suggesting a person of influence or communication.

Zepho:
Zepho, also known as Zephi in some translations, is another descendant of Eliphaz. His name means "watchtower" or "observer," which may imply a role of vigilance or oversight within the tribe.

Gatam:
Gatam is one of the lesser-known sons of Eliphaz. His name means "their touch" or "their reach," possibly indicating a person of connection or influence. The mention of Gatam underscores the comprehensive nature of genealogical records in Scripture.

Kenaz:
Kenaz is a name that appears multiple times in the Bible, often associated with leadership and military prowess. The Kenizzites were a clan within Edom, and the name means "hunter" or "possessor." Kenaz's descendants include notable figures like Caleb, who played a significant role in the conquest of Canaan.

and by Timna, Amalek:
Timna was a concubine of Eliphaz, and through her, he fathered Amalek. The Amalekites, descendants of Amalek, became one of Israel's most persistent enemies. The conflict between Israel and Amalek is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing the ongoing struggle between God's people and their adversaries. Amalek's name means "dweller in a valley," and his lineage is often associated with hostility towards Israel, as seen in the battles during the Exodus and the time of King Saul.

“ ‘The sons of Eliphaz: Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz; and by Timna, Amalek.’ ” (1 Chronicles 1:36)

• Scripture places Eliphaz, Esau’s eldest (Genesis 36:4), in the direct line of promise-bearing patriarchs—yet outside the covenant nation of Israel.

• This list reminds us that God records every family, even those not in the chosen line, highlighting His sovereign oversight (Genesis 25:23; Romans 9:10-13).

• Genealogies like this are factual history, demonstrating that biblical faith is rooted in real people and real events.

• Teman later names an Edomite clan and region (Genesis 36:11; Jeremiah 49:7).

• Eliphaz the Temanite, Job’s friend (Job 2:11), comes from this line, showing how far-reaching these descendants became.

• The prominence of Teman underlines how God allows non-Israelite nations to flourish, even while working His redemptive plan through Israel.

• Mentioned again in Genesis 36:11; Omar’s tribe contributes to Edom’s early growth.

• Though little else is recorded, Omar’s inclusion stresses that every person counts in God’s ledger (Psalm 139:16).

• Even “quiet” names point to God’s faithfulness in multiplying Abraham’s seed (Genesis 17:4-6).

• Also called Zephi (Genesis 36:11); later tradition links his line with coastal peoples (Numbers 24:24 hints at maritime Edomites).

• His appearance here shows Edom’s breadth and hints at future interactions with Israel’s seafaring neighbors (1 Kings 9:26).

• Gatam’s clan is cited once more in Genesis 36:11.

• Though obscure, Gatam reminds us that God’s word is comprehensive, not selective, about history (2 Timothy 3:16).

• Kenaz’s descendants appear among Edomite chiefs (Genesis 36:15).

• Caleb’s younger brother is later called “Kenaz” (Joshua 15:17), suggesting intermingling or a shared name.

• This overlap illustrates how God weaves various families together in His purposes (Ruth 4:13-22).

• Genesis 36:12 clarifies Timna was Eliphaz’s concubine.

• Her unusual placement—both as a woman and as a concubine—in the genealogy underscores that God records the marginalized (Genesis 16:13).

• Timna’s inclusion teaches that social status never hides a person from the Lord’s eye (Luke 1:52-53).

• Born of Timna, Amalek fathers the Amalekites, Israel’s persistent foe (Exodus 17:8-16; Deuteronomy 25:17-19).

• Amalek’s emergence from Esau’s line fulfills the prophecy that Esau’s descendants would war against Jacob’s (Genesis 27:40-41).

• God later commands Saul to destroy Amalek (1 Samuel 15:2-3), showing that unchecked hostility toward God’s people brings judgment.

• Yet even in judgment, God’s justice is precise—aimed at sin, not arbitrary wrath (Psalm 9:7-8).

1 Chronicles 1:36 faithfully records Eliphaz’s sons—Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, Kenaz—and adds the special note that Timna, a concubine, bore Amalek. Each name is literal history, affirming God’s meticulous care over every lineage. Teman and Kenaz highlight Edom’s future leaders; Omar, Zepho, and Gatam show the breadth of Esau’s house; Timna reminds us that no one is overlooked; Amalek foreshadows the conflict between flesh and faith. Altogether the verse testifies that God’s providence governs nations and individuals alike, ensuring His purposes prevail from generation to generation.

Parallel Commentaries ...