Genesis 36:17

These 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.

Study Bible

These are the sons of Reuel
The name "Reuel" means "friend of God" in Hebrew. Reuel is a significant figure as he is a grandson of Esau, the brother of Jacob. This phrase introduces us to the lineage of Esau, emphasizing the continuation of his family line. In a broader biblical context, the mention of Reuel's sons highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, as Esau's descendants become a significant people group.

Esau’s son
Esau, the elder twin brother of Jacob, is a central figure in the Genesis narrative. Known for selling his birthright for a meal, Esau's life is a testament to the consequences of impulsive decisions. However, his lineage, as seen through his son Reuel, shows God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through all families of the earth, even those outside the covenant line of Jacob.

chief Nahath, chief Zerah, chief Shammah, and chief Mizzah
The term "chief" (Hebrew: "aluph") indicates a leader or chieftain, suggesting a position of authority and respect within the clan. Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah are listed as leaders, signifying the establishment of a structured society among Esau's descendants. This structure reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to make Esau a great nation, despite his separation from the covenant blessings given to Jacob.

These are the chiefs of Reuel in the land of Edom
The "land of Edom" is the territory settled by Esau and his descendants. Edom, meaning "red," is linked to Esau's red appearance at birth and the red stew for which he traded his birthright. The chiefs of Reuel in Edom indicate the organized and influential presence of Esau's lineage in this region. Historically, Edom was a significant kingdom, often interacting with Israel, sometimes as an adversary, which fulfills the prophecy given to Rebekah about the two nations in her womb.

they are the sons of Basemath, Esau’s wife
Basemath, one of Esau's wives, is mentioned here to trace the maternal lineage of Reuel's sons. Her name, meaning "fragrance" or "perfume," suggests a sense of beauty or pleasantness. The inclusion of maternal lineage in genealogies underscores the importance of family heritage and the role of women in the biblical narrative. Basemath's connection to Esau further solidifies the integration of different familial lines within the broader account of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuel
A son of Esau, who is the grandson of Isaac and Rebekah. Reuel is a significant figure in the lineage of Esau, representing the continuation of Esau's line through his son.

2. Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, Mizzah
These are the sons of Reuel, each holding the title of "chief," indicating their leadership roles within the Edomite community. Their mention highlights the establishment and organization of Esau's descendants in Edom.

3. Edom
The land where Esau's descendants settled. It is significant as the territory associated with Esau, also known as Edom, which means "red," reflecting Esau's physical characteristics and the red stew for which he sold his birthright.

4. Basemath
One of Esau's wives, the mother of Reuel. Her inclusion in the genealogy underscores the familial connections and the importance of maternal lineage in the biblical account.

5. Esau
The brother of Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah. Esau's descendants, the Edomites, play a significant role in the biblical history of Israel, often as adversaries.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage and Legacy
The genealogies in the Bible, such as the one in Genesis 36, remind us of the importance of family heritage and the impact of our ancestors on our identity and destiny.

Leadership and Responsibility
The mention of chiefs among Esau's descendants highlights the roles of leadership and responsibility within a community. As Christians, we are called to lead with integrity and serve others.

Understanding God's Sovereignty
Despite the conflicts and tensions between Esau's and Jacob's descendants, God's sovereign plan unfolds through history. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace amidst life's uncertainties.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The account of Esau and Jacob, and their descendants, serves as a reminder of the need for reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships, reflecting Christ's teachings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Esau, as described in Genesis 36:17, reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants?

2. In what ways can the leadership roles of Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah inspire us to take on responsibilities within our own communities?

3. How does the history of Edom and its relationship with Israel illustrate the consequences of unresolved family conflicts?

4. What lessons can we learn from the account of Esau and Jacob about the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness in our personal lives?

5. How can understanding the sovereignty of God, as seen in the unfolding of biblical history, help us trust Him more in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:30
This verse provides background on Esau's name, Edom, which is linked to the red stew for which he traded his birthright. This connection highlights the significance of names and their meanings in biblical accounts.

Genesis 27:41
Esau's animosity towards Jacob after losing his blessing is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the future interactions between the Israelites and Edomites.

Obadiah 1:1-21
The book of Obadiah prophesies against Edom, reflecting the ongoing tension and conflict between the descendants of Esau and Jacob.