Alvan is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is identified as one of the sons of Shobal, who was a descendant of Seir the Horite. The Horites were an ancient people who inhabited the region of Seir before the Edomites. Alvan's mention is brief, and he appears in the context of the genealogical records that trace the lineage and tribal affiliations of the inhabitants of the land of Edom.

Biblical References:

Alvan is mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the genealogical listings that detail the descendants of Seir the Horite. In Genesis 36:20-23 , the text states:

"These are the sons of Seir the Horite, the inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. These are the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir, in the land of Edom. The sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam. Timna was Lotan’s sister. These are the sons of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam."

In this passage, Alvan is listed among the sons of Shobal, indicating his place within the broader family structure of the Horites. The genealogical record serves to establish the historical and familial context of the people who lived in the region that would later become associated with the Edomites.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Horites, to whom Alvan belonged, were a group of people who lived in the mountainous region of Seir, which is located in the southern part of modern-day Jordan. The Horites are often associated with the cave-dwelling peoples of the ancient Near East, and their presence in the biblical narrative highlights the diverse ethnic and cultural landscape of the region during the patriarchal period.

The genealogies in Genesis, including the mention of Alvan, serve several purposes. They provide a historical framework for understanding the relationships between different tribes and peoples, and they underscore the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the multiplication of their descendants. The inclusion of the Horites in these genealogies also reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples.

Theological Significance:

While Alvan himself is not a prominent figure in biblical history, his inclusion in the genealogical records of Genesis contributes to the overarching narrative of God's unfolding plan for humanity. The genealogies demonstrate the interconnectedness of various peoples and highlight the fulfillment of divine promises through the generations. They also serve as a reminder of the historical reality of the biblical narrative, grounding the spiritual truths of Scripture in the lived experiences of real people and communities.

In the broader context of Scripture, the genealogies, including the mention of Alvan, point to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who is traced through the lineages of the Old Testament. The detailed records of ancestry underscore the faithfulness of God in preserving His chosen people and bringing about His purposes in history.Genesis 36:23
And the children of Shobal were these; Alvan, and Manahath, and Ebal, Shepho, and Onam.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxvi
... Dishon (v. Genesis 36:21) ""gazelle"; Alvan (v. Genesis 36 ... name "Korah," identical
with the last son of Oholibamah as ... of the land: Lotan and Shobal and Zibeon ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

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