In the context of the Old Testament, the term "duke" is used to describe the leaders or chieftains of the Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The title is primarily found in the genealogical records and historical accounts of the Edomites, as detailed in the Book of Genesis and other related passages.

The Berean Standard Bible translates the Hebrew word "אַלּוּף" (alluph) as "duke," which signifies a leader or chief. This term is notably used in Genesis 36, where the descendants of Esau are listed, and their leadership structure is outlined. Genesis 36:15-19 states:

"These are the chiefs of the sons of Esau. The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, Korah, Gatam, and Amalek. These are the chiefs of Eliphaz in the land of Edom; they are the sons of Adah. These are the sons of Reuel, Esau’s son: Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. These are the chiefs of Reuel in the land of Edom; they are the sons of Esau’s wife Basemath. These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah: Chiefs Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These are the chiefs descended from Esau’s wife Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah. These are the sons of Esau (that is, Edom), and these are their chiefs."

The use of the title "duke" in this context reflects a structured hierarchy among the Edomites, with each duke representing a clan or family group. The Edomites, living in the region south of the Dead Sea, were organized into tribes, each led by a duke, who held both political and military authority.

The Edomites' governance by dukes is further emphasized in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles 1:51-54 , which reiterates the leadership structure:

"Hadad died, and then there were chiefs of Edom: Chief Timna, Chief Aliah, 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."

The role of a duke in Edomite society was significant, as these leaders were responsible for the welfare and defense of their people. The title indicates a level of nobility and authority, akin to that of a prince or ruler, and highlights the organized nature of Edomite society.

The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, held a complex relationship with the Israelites, marked by both kinship and conflict. The title of "duke" underscores the distinct identity and governance of the Edomites, setting them apart from the surrounding nations and tribes.

In summary, the term "duke" in the biblical context refers to the chieftains or leaders of the Edomite tribes, as recorded in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles. This title reflects the structured leadership and societal organization of the Edomites, descendants of Esau, and plays a significant role in the historical and familial narratives of the Old Testament.Genesis 36:15-43
These were dukes of the sons of Esau: the sons of Eliphaz the firstborn son of Esau; duke Teman, duke Omar, duke Zepho, duke Kenaz,
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Exodus 15:15
Then the dukes of Edom shall be amazed; the mighty men of Moab, trembling shall take hold on them; all the inhabitants of Canaan shall melt away.
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1 Chronicles 1:51-54
Hadad died also. And the dukes of Edom were; duke Timnah, duke Aliah, duke Jetheth,
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The Nations of the South-East
... The title was one which well befitted the red cliffs ... under its chieftain, the aluph
or "duke" as he ... But whereas the "princes" of the Israelitish tribes did not ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter iii the nations of.htm

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