What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 1:36? The sons of Eliphaz “ ‘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 • 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. Omar • 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). Zepho • 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 • 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 • 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). and by Timna • 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). Amalek • 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). summary 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. |
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