Mag'di-el
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Mag'di-el is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, who is also known as Israel. The name Mag'di-el appears in the context of the Edomite chiefs, or "dukes," who were the leaders of the clans descended from Esau. The reference to Mag'di-el is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis.

Biblical Reference:

Mag'di-el is mentioned in Genesis 36:40-43, which lists the chiefs of Edom. The Berean Standard Bible renders this passage as follows:

"These are the names of Esau’s chiefs, according to their families and regions, by their names: Chief Timna, Chief Alvah, Chief Jetheth, Chief Oholibamah, Chief Elah, Chief Pinon, Chief Kenaz, Chief Teman, Chief Mibzar, Chief Magdiel, and Chief Iram. These were the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land they possessed. (This is Esau, the father of the Edomites.)"

Historical and Cultural Context:

Mag'di-el, as a chief of Edom, represents one of the tribal leaders who descended from Esau. The Edomites were a significant group in the ancient Near East, often interacting with the Israelites. The genealogical records in Genesis serve to establish the historical and familial connections between the Israelites and their neighboring nations, including Edom.

The Edomites settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, an area known for its rugged terrain and strategic trade routes. The mention of Mag'di-el among the chiefs underscores the organized tribal structure of the Edomites, which was similar to that of other ancient Semitic peoples.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Mag'di-el in the biblical record highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants. Although Esau did not inherit the covenantal promises given to Jacob, he was still blessed with a lineage that became a significant nation. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, are part of the broader narrative of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel.

The genealogies, including the mention of Mag'di-el, also serve to remind readers of the sovereignty of God in history. They illustrate how God orchestrates the rise and fall of nations and leaders according to His divine plan. The Edomites, despite their frequent conflicts with Israel, are acknowledged in the biblical text as part of the unfolding account of God's interaction with humanity.

Name Meaning:

The name Mag'di-el is thought to mean "Preciousness of God" or "Choice of God," reflecting the common practice in ancient cultures of attributing significant meanings to personal names. This name may indicate the esteem or value placed upon this individual or his clan within the Edomite society.

In summary, Mag'di-el is a minor yet noteworthy figure within the genealogical records of the Bible, representing the broader narrative of Esau's descendants and their role in the history of the ancient Near East.
Concordance
Mag'di-el (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 1:54
the chief of Magdiel, the chief of Iram. These are the chiefs of Edom.
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Mag'di-el (1 Occurrence)
Mag'di-el. Mag'diel, Mag'di-el. Maged . Multi-Version Concordance Mag'di-el
(1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 1:54 the chief of Magdiel, the chief of Iram. ...
/m/mag'di-el.htm - 6k

Mag'diel (1 Occurrence)
Mag'diel. Magdiel, Mag'diel. Mag'di-el . Multi-Version Concordance Mag'diel
(1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Magdiel, Mag'diel. Mag'di-el . Reference Bible.
/m/mag'diel.htm - 6k

Magdiel (2 Occurrences)
...mag'-di-el (maghdi'el; Genesis 36:43, Septuagint: Codex Alexandrinus Metoduel; 1
Chronicles 1:54; Codex Alexandrinus Mageduel; Codex Vaticanus Meduel): One of ...
/m/magdiel.htm - 7k

Maged
Maged. Mag'di-el, Maged. Mages . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAGED.
ma'-ged. See MAKED. Mag'di-el, Maged. Mages . Reference Bible.
/m/maged.htm - 6k

Resources
What are the different names of God, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org

What is the meaning of the word Elohim? | GotQuestions.org

What are the attributes of God? | GotQuestions.org

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