The Descendants of Esau 1This is the account of Esau (that is, Edom). 2Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah daughter of Elon the Hittite, Oholibamah daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite, 3and Basemath daughter of Ishmael and sister of Nebaioth. 4And Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau, Basemath gave birth to Reuel, 5and Oholibamah gave birth to Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These were the sons of Esau, who were born to him in the land of Canaan. 6Later, Esau took his wives and sons and daughters and all the people of his household, along with his livestock, all his other animals, and all the property he had acquired in Canaan, and he moved to a land far away from his brother Jacob. 7For their possessions were too great for them to dwell together; the land where they stayed could not support them because of their livestock. 8So Esau (that is, Edom) settled in the area of Mount Seir. 9This is the account of Esau, the father of the Edomites, in the area of Mount Seir. 10These are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz son of Esau’s wife Adah, and Reuel son of Esau’s wife Basemath. 11The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz. 12Additionally, Timna, a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz, gave birth to Amalek. These are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Adah. 13These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath. 14These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah (daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon) whom she bore to Esau: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. 15These are the chiefs among the sons of Esau. The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, 16Korah,a Gatam, and Amalek. They are the chiefs of Eliphaz in the land of Edom, and they are the grandsons of Adah. 17These are the sons of Esau’s son Reuel: Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the chiefs descended from Reuel in the land of Edom, and they are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath. 18These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah: Chiefs Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. They are the chiefs descended from Esau’s wife Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah. 19All these are the sons of Esau (that is, Edom), and they were their chiefs. The Descendants of Seir 20These are the sons of Seir the Horite, who were living in the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, 21Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. They are the chiefs of the Horites, the descendants of Seir in the land of Edom. 22The sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam.b Timna was Lotan’s sister. 23These are the sons of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam. 24These are the sons of Zibeon: Aiah and Anah. (This is the Anah who found the hot springs in the wilderness as he was pasturing the donkeys of his father Zibeon.) 25These are the children of Anah: Dishon and Oholibamah daughter of Anah. 26These are the sons of Dishon:c Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran. 27These are the sons of Ezer: Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan. 28These are the sons of Dishan: Uz and Aran. 29These are the chiefs of the Horites: Chiefs Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, 30Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. They are the chiefs of the Horites, according to their divisions in the land of Seir. The Kings of Edom 31These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites:d 32Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom; the name of his city was Dinhabah. 33When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. 34When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place. 35When Husham died, Hadad son of Bedad, who defeated Midian in the country of Moab, reigned in his place. And the name of his city was Avith. 36When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place. 37When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphratese reigned in his place. 38When Shaul died, Baal-hanan son of Achbor reigned in his place. 39When Baal-hanan son of Achbor died, Hadadf reigned in his place. His city was named Pau, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-zahab. 40These are the names of Esau’s chiefs, according to their families and regions, by their names: Chiefs Timna, Alvah, Jetheth, 41Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon, 42Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar, 43Magdiel, and Iram. These were the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land they possessed. Esau was the father of the Edomites. Footnotes: 16 a Hebrew; SP (also in verse 11 and 1 Chronicles 1:36) does not include Korah. 22 b Hemam is a variant of Homam; see 1 Chronicles 1:39. 26 c Hebrew Dishan, a variant of Dishon 31 d Or before an Israelite king reigned over them: 37 e Hebrew the River 39 f Some MT manuscripts, SP, and Syriac (see also 1 Chronicles 1:50); other MT manuscripts Hadar Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Genesis 36 Summary The Descendants of EsauVerses 1–8 – Esau’s Family and Move to Seir Verses 9–14 – Sons and Grandsons of Esau Verses 15–19 – Chiefs Descended from Esau Verses 20–30 – The Horite Clans of Seir Verses 31–39 – Kings of Edom before Israel Had a King Verses 40–43 – Final List of Edomite Chiefs This chapter delves into the genealogy of Esau, detailing his lineage, migration, and the subsequent rise of the Edomites. From the bountiful land of Canaan to the rugged terrains of Mount Seir, Esau's journey forms a significant part of the narrative. Historical Background of Esau and Edom Genesis has tracked Esau from his birth (25:25) through the loss of his birthright (25:29-34) and blessing (27:30-40). Genesis 33 shows the brothers reconciling, yet here they finally separate geographically. The move fulfills Isaac’s words: “You will live by the sword, and you will serve your brother; but when you rebel, you will break his yoke from your neck” (27:40). Edom’s settling in Seir, outside Canaan’s promised borders, frees the land for Jacob’s line while still allowing Esau’s house to flourish. Why the Genealogy Matters 1. Proof of God’s earlier promise: “Two nations are in your womb” (25:23). 2. Demonstration that God blesses Esau materially though covenant promises flow through Jacob. 3. Official record that explains later conflicts in Numbers 20, Deuteronomy 2, and 1 Samuel 14. 4. Reminder that God tracks individual families and nations; no one is overlooked in His plan. Edom and Seir in the Ancient World • Geography: Seir’s rugged red sandstone earned the region the name “Edom” (Hebrew ’edom, “red”). • Trade: Copper mines at Timna and along the Arabah brought wealth, matching the livestock inventory in 36:6. • Sites: Bozrah (36:33) is identified with modern Busayrah in Jordan, a fortified highland city controlling caravan routes. • Archaeology: Sixth- to tenth-century BC Edomite pottery and fortresses confirm a developed kingdom aligning with the kings list here. Esau’s Wives and Cultural Connections Adah and Oholibamah tie Esau to Canaan’s Hittites and Hivites (26:34-35). Basemath links him to Ishmael’s line (28:9), providing a bridge between Abraham’s sons. The mix illustrates how Esau blends into surrounding peoples, while Jacob’s family remains distinct within the promised land. From Family to Nation: Chiefs and Kings Chiefs (Hebrew ’allup) are tribal leaders. Their emergence shows growth from households to clans. The kings list proves Edom organized earlier than Israel. Deuteronomy 17:14 predicts Israel will desire a king “like all the nations around,” and Genesis 36 reveals one such model already operating just across the Jordan. Prophetic Echoes in Later Scripture • Obadiah 1:10-14 condemns Edom for violence against Judah. • Malachi 1:2-4 speaks of God’s elective love for Jacob over Esau, yet Edom’s rebuilding fails. • Isaiah 63:1-6 pictures the Lord coming from Edom in judgment. • Amos 9:11-12 foretells Israel’s restored kingdom possessing “the remnant of Edom,” echoed in Acts 15:16-17 as Gentile inclusion. The Amalekites: A Notorious Offshoot Amalek, grandson of Esau, fathered a people who attacked Israel after the Exodus (Exodus 17). God declared perpetual war with Amalek (Deuteronomy 25:17-19). The line traces straight back to Genesis 36:12, showing how a single branch can influence centuries. Key Themes and Lessons • God’s faithfulness: Even outside the covenant, Esau prospers, proving God keeps His word to Abraham that “nations” would come through him (17:6). • Separation for peace: Like Abram and Lot (Genesis 13), Jacob and Esau avoid strife by settling apart. • Earthly success is not covenant blessing: Edom gains kings first, yet salvation history flows through Israel. • Remembered by name: Dozens of names—fathers, mothers, chiefs—show God notices every person and family. Foreshadowing Israel’s Monarchy Israel’s later demand for a king (1 Samuel 8) is anticipated here. Genesis 36 hints that human monarchy may come early for some nations, but God’s timing for His people is deliberate, awaiting the right moment under Samuel and Saul. Christ and the Nations While the Messiah comes through Jacob, not Esau, the prophets envision salvation extending to Edom and all nations (Isaiah 42:6). In Christ, ancestral divisions can be healed, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (12:3). Living It Out Today • Trust God’s timing; Edom’s early kingship did not make Israel late—only different. • Guard against bitterness; Esau’s family thrives materially yet later generations harbor resentment toward Israel. • Value family records and heritage; Scripture models meticulous remembrance of ancestors. • Recognize God’s concern for all peoples; He weaves every nation into His unfolding story. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 25:23This verse prophesies the future of Esau and Jacob, highlighting the origins of the nations that would come from them. Romans 9:10-13 Paul references Esau and Jacob to discuss God's sovereign choice, emphasizing His purpose and calling. Deuteronomy 2:4-5 God instructs the Israelites not to provoke the Edomites, acknowledging Esau's descendants' rightful place in the land of Seir. Teaching Points Esau's Lineage and God's PromiseGenesis 36:1-8 outlines Esau's descendants and his move to the hill country of Seir. This fulfills God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, as Esau becomes the progenitor of the Edomites. The Edomite Chiefs Verses 9-19 list the chiefs of Esau's descendants, highlighting the establishment of a structured society. This demonstrates God's providence in allowing Esau's lineage to grow and prosper, despite his separation from the covenant line of Jacob. The Kings of Edom Verses 31-39 mention the kings who reigned in Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites. This pre-Israelite monarchy indicates the development and organization of nations surrounding Israel, setting the stage for future interactions and conflicts. The Importance of Genealogies The detailed genealogies underscore the historical and cultural context of the Bible, affirming its reliability and the continuity of God's plan through generations. Practical Applications Trust in God's PromisesJust as God fulfilled His promises to Abraham through Esau's lineage, we can trust that He will fulfill His promises to us, even when the path seems unclear. Value of Every Person The detailed genealogies remind us that every person and every family has a role in God's plan. We should value and respect each individual's contribution to God's story. Understanding God's Sovereignty Recognizing the rise of nations and leaders in Genesis 36 helps us appreciate God's sovereignty over history and His ability to work through all circumstances. People 1. Esau (Edom)Esau is the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the twin brother of Jacob. He is the ancestor of the Edomites. The name "Edom" is derived from the Hebrew word "אֱדוֹם" (Edom), meaning "red," which relates to the red stew for which Esau sold his birthright (Genesis 25:30). 2. Adah One of Esau's wives, the daughter of Elon the Hittite. 3. Oholibamah Another wife of Esau, the daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite. 4. Basemath Esau's wife, the daughter of Ishmael and sister of Nebaioth. 5. Eliphaz The son of Esau and Adah. 6. Reuel The son of Esau and Basemath. 7. Jeush The son of Esau and Oholibamah. 8. Jalam Another son of Esau and Oholibamah. 9. Korah Also a son of Esau and Oholibamah. 10. Teman A chief descended from Eliphaz, Esau's son. 11. Omar Another chief descended from Eliphaz. 12. Zepho A chief descended from Eliphaz. 13. Gatam A chief descended from Eliphaz. 14. Kenaz A chief descended from Eliphaz. 15. Amalek The son of Eliphaz by his concubine Timna, and a chief. 16. Nahath A chief descended from Reuel, Esau's son. 17. Zerah Another chief descended from Reuel. 18. Shammah A chief descended from Reuel. 19. Mizzah A chief descended from Reuel. 20. Lotan A chief of the Horites, inhabitants of the land of Seir. 21. Shobal Another chief of the Horites. 22. Zibeon A chief of the Horites. 23. Anah The son of Zibeon, a chief of the Horites. 24. Dishon A chief of the Horites. 25. Ezer Another chief of the Horites. 26. Dishan A chief of the Horites. 27. Uz A chief descended from Dishan. 28. Aran Another chief descended from Dishan. Places 1. SeirSeir is a mountainous region where Esau settled. It is often associated with the Edomites, who are descendants of Esau. The name "Seir" in Hebrew (שֵׂעִיר) can mean "hairy" or "shaggy," which is fitting given Esau's description in Genesis 25:25. 2. Edom Edom is another name for Esau and the region where his descendants lived. The name "Edom" (אֱדוֹם) means "red" in Hebrew, reflecting the red stew for which Esau sold his birthright (Genesis 25:30). 3. Bozrah Bozrah is a city in Edom mentioned in Genesis 36:33. It later becomes a significant city in prophetic literature. The name "Bozrah" (בָּצְרָה) can mean "fortress" or "sheepfold" in Hebrew. 4. Teman Teman is a region or city named after one of Esau's grandsons. It is often associated with wisdom and might in later biblical texts. The name "Teman" (תֵּימָן) means "south" in Hebrew, indicating its geographical location. 5. Amalek Although not a place, Amalek is mentioned as a descendant of Esau and the progenitor of the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe often in conflict with Israel. The name "Amalek" (עֲמָלֵק) is associated with the Hebrew root for "toil" or "labor." 6. Alvah Alvah is listed as a chief of Edom in Genesis 36:40. The name "Alvah" (עַלְוָה) is of uncertain meaning but is included in the list of chiefs or clans. 7. Pinon Pinon is another chief of Edom mentioned in Genesis 36:41. The name "Pinon" (פִּינוֹן) is also of uncertain meaning but is part of the genealogical record. 8. Magdiel Magdiel is listed as a chief of Edom in Genesis 36:43. The name "Magdiel" (מַגְדִּיאֵל) can mean "preciousness of God" in Hebrew. 9. Iram Iram is another chief of Edom mentioned in Genesis 36:43. The name "Iram" (עִירָם) may mean "city" or "watchful" in Hebrew. Events 1. Esau's Wives and SonsThe chapter begins by listing Esau's wives and sons. Esau took his wives from the Canaanites: Adah, Oholibamah, and Basemath. His sons were Eliphaz, Reuel, Jeush, Jalam, and Korah (Genesis 36:2-5). 2. Esau's Move to Seir Esau took his household, livestock, and all his possessions and moved to the hill country of Seir, away from his brother Jacob, because their possessions were too great for them to dwell together (Genesis 36:6-8). 3. Descendants of Esau The chapter details the descendants of Esau, who became the Edomites. The sons of Eliphaz, Esau's firstborn, included Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz. Timna was a concubine of Eliphaz and bore Amalek (Genesis 36:9-12). 4. Chiefs of Esau's Descendants The chiefs among Esau's descendants are listed, including the chiefs of Eliphaz and Reuel's sons. These chiefs were leaders of their respective clans in Edom (Genesis 36:15-19). 5. Descendants of Seir the Horite The chapter also lists the descendants of Seir the Horite, who inhabited the land before Esau. These include Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan (Genesis 36:20-30). 6. Kings of Edom Before any king reigned over the Israelites, there were kings who reigned in Edom. The chapter lists these kings, starting with Bela son of Beor and ending with Hadad son of Bedad (Genesis 36:31-39). 7. Chiefs of Esau The chapter concludes with a list of the chiefs of Esau, according to their families and places. These chiefs include Timna, Alvah, Jetheth, Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon, Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar, Magdiel, and Iram (Genesis 36:40-43). The genealogical records in Genesis 36 emphasize the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, as Esau's descendants became the nation of Edom. The Hebrew roots of the names and terms used in this chapter reflect the historical and cultural context of the Edomites and their relationship with the Israelites. Topics 1. Esau's Wives and SonsThis section details the wives of Esau and the sons born to him in Canaan. The text emphasizes Esau's family lineage, which is significant in understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham and Isaac. The Hebrew names and their meanings often reflect the cultural and familial ties of the time. 2. Esau's Move to Seir Esau's relocation to the hill country of Seir is noted, highlighting the separation between Jacob and Esau. This move fulfills the prophecy of Esau's descendants becoming a distinct nation, Edom, as mentioned in Genesis 25:23. 3. Descendants of Esau The genealogy of Esau's sons and grandsons is provided, listing the chiefs and clans that arose from his lineage. This section underscores the establishment of the Edomite nation and its leaders, known as "chiefs" or "dukes" (Hebrew: "אלוף" - 'aluf'). 4. Chiefs of Edom The chapter lists the chiefs of Edom, emphasizing the political and social structure of Esau's descendants. This reflects the fulfillment of God's word to Rebekah that two nations would come from her womb (Genesis 25:23). 5. The Kings of Edom Before any king reigned over the Israelites, Edom had its own line of kings. This section provides a historical context for the political development of the Edomite nation, distinct from Israel. 6. Additional Chiefs of Esau The chapter concludes with a further listing of chiefs, reinforcing the established leadership and governance within Edom. This serves to highlight the growth and organization of Esau's descendants as a significant people group. Each of these topics reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His promises through the generations, as seen in the genealogies and historical accounts of the Old Testament. Themes 1. The Fulfillment of God's PromisesGenesis 36:1-8 details the descendants of Esau, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. Esau's lineage, as the father of the Edomites, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant. The Hebrew root for "descendants" (תּוֹלְדוֹת, toledot) emphasizes the continuation of a family line, underscoring God's ongoing work through generations. 2. The Separation of Jacob and Esau In Genesis 36:6-8, Esau moves away from Jacob to the hill country of Seir. This separation signifies the distinct paths of the two brothers and their descendants. The Hebrew word for "separated" (נָסַע, nasa) implies a deliberate departure, reflecting the fulfillment of God's plan for each brother to establish his own nation. 3. The Establishment of Edom Genesis 36:9-19 lists the chiefs of Edom, illustrating the establishment of Esau's descendants as a significant nation. The term "chiefs" (אַלּוּף, aluph) in Hebrew indicates leaders or tribal heads, signifying the organized and influential nature of Edom as a nation. 4. The Intermingling of Cultures The chapter mentions Esau's marriages to Canaanite women (Genesis 36:2-3), highlighting the intermingling of cultures and the potential for religious and cultural influences. This theme serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by God's people in maintaining their distinct identity amidst surrounding nations. 5. The Legacy of Esau Genesis 36:31-43 provides a list of the kings who reigned in Edom before any Israelite king reigned. This theme emphasizes the enduring legacy of Esau's lineage and the historical significance of Edom. The Hebrew word for "kings" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) underscores the established governance and prominence of Edom in the region. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Genesis 36:2–3, Esau’s wives differ from those mentioned in Genesis 26:34 and 28:9—why the discrepancy? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Esau's choice of wives reflect his relationship with his family? 2. In what ways does the migration of Esau echo the journeys of his ancestors? 3. How do you see the theme of reconciliation portrayed in Esau's migration away from Jacob? 4. Compare and contrast the lives of Jacob and Esau. How do their decisions affect their respective lineages? 5. What does the establishment of the Edomite nation say about God's promise to Abraham? 6. How do the divisions among the descendants of Esau impact the formation of the Edomite nation? 7. Explore the relationship between the Horites and the Edomites. How does cohabitation shape their cultures? 8. Analyze the transition of power among the kings of Edom. What does this reveal about their governance? 9. How does Esau's lineage intertwine with the larger narrative of the Bible? 10. How might the conflict between Jacob and Esau have influenced the relationships among their descendants? 11. What can we learn about conflict resolution from Esau's decision to move away from his brother? 12. How does understanding the lineage of Esau contribute to our understanding of later biblical narratives? 13. In today's context, how should we navigate family conflicts in a way that fosters reconciliation? 14. What lessons can be drawn from the story of Esau and applied to issues of scarcity and sharing resources today? 15. What might the Edomites' acceptance of the Horite chiefs into their genealogical record suggest about their society? 16. In a world often divided by differences, what can we learn from the lineage of Esau about cohabitation and acceptance? 17. How might we interpret the cyclical nature of power as depicted in the kings of Edom in relation to modern leadership? 18. How does Esau's story challenge or confirm our understandings of God's promises? 19. Reflect on how God's promise to Abraham resonates in your personal life. 20. How does the narrative of Esau inspire you to manage your relationships and responsibilities today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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