Massrekah is a location mentioned in the genealogical and historical records of the Edomite kings in the Old Testament. It is specifically noted in the context of the early rulers of Edom, a region and people descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob. The reference to Massrekah is found in the book of Genesis, which provides a list of the kings who reigned in Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites.

Biblical Reference:

In Genesis 36:36, the Berean Standard Bible states: "When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place." This passage is part of a larger genealogical account detailing the descendants of Esau and the kings who ruled Edom. The mention of Massrekah here is significant as it identifies the origin or the place associated with Samlah, one of the Edomite kings.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Massrekah is understood to be a city or region within the territory of Edom. The exact location of Massrekah is not definitively known today, as it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text or in extrabiblical sources. However, its inclusion in the genealogical records of Edom suggests it was a place of some importance during the time of the Edomite monarchy.

Edom itself was located to the southeast of Israel, in what is now southern Jordan. The Edomites were known for their interactions and conflicts with the Israelites, as well as their control of trade routes and their fortified cities. The mention of Massrekah in the context of Edomite kingship indicates that it may have been a significant urban center or a royal seat during the reign of Samlah.

Theological Significance:

The genealogical records in Genesis, including the mention of Massrekah, serve to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises to Esau. Despite the tensions and conflicts between the descendants of Esau and Jacob, God’s providence extended to both lineages. The detailed accounts of Edomite kingship highlight the historical reality of these nations and their rulers, providing a backdrop to the broader narrative of God's dealings with His people.

The inclusion of Edomite kings and their cities, such as Massrekah, in the biblical text underscores the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern world and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history. These records remind readers of the sovereignty of God over all nations and His ultimate purpose in history, which is revealed through the lineage of Jacob and the coming of the Messiah.Massrekah

(vineyard of noble vines), an ancient place, the native spot of Samiah, one of the old king of the Edomites. (Genesis 36:36; 1 Chronicles 1:47)

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