Topical Encyclopedia Eliphaz is a significant figure in the genealogical and historical narratives of the Old Testament. He is the firstborn son of Esau, the elder twin brother of Jacob, and is a prominent member of the Edomite lineage. His account and descendants are primarily chronicled in the Book of Genesis and other historical books of the Bible.Genealogy and Family Background Eliphaz was born to Esau and his wife Adah, the daughter of Elon the Hittite. This union is part of Esau's integration into the Canaanite tribes, which was a source of grief to his parents, Isaac and Rebekah, as noted in Genesis 26:34-35. Eliphaz's birthright as the firstborn son of Esau places him in a position of prominence within the Edomite hierarchy. Descendants and Legacy Eliphaz is the father of several sons, who are listed among the chiefs of Edom. His sons include Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz. Additionally, Eliphaz had a concubine named Timna, who bore him a son named Amalek. The Amalekites, descendants of Amalek, would later become one of Israel's most persistent adversaries. Genesis 36:12 states, "Additionally, Timna, a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz, bore Amalek. These were the grandsons of Esau’s wife Adah." The descendants of Eliphaz, particularly through his son Teman, are often associated with wisdom and might. The Temanites are mentioned in various biblical texts, and the region of Teman is noted for its wise men, as seen in Jeremiah 49:7: "Concerning Edom, this is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?'" Role in Edomite History Eliphaz's role as a progenitor of the Edomite chiefs underscores his importance in the development of the Edomite nation. The chiefs of Edom, including those descended from Eliphaz, are listed in Genesis 36:15-16: "These are the chiefs among the descendants of Esau’s firstborn son Eliphaz: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, Korah, Gatam, and Amalek. These are the chiefs descended from Eliphaz in the land of Edom; they were the sons of Adah." Cultural and Theological Significance Eliphaz's lineage highlights the complex relationships between the Israelites and their neighboring nations. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, share a common ancestry with the Israelites, yet their interactions are often marked by conflict and tension. The Amalekites, in particular, emerge as a significant adversarial force against Israel, beginning with their attack on the Israelites shortly after the Exodus (Exodus 17:8-16). Eliphaz's account is a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises and prophecies concerning the descendants of Esau. Despite the familial ties, the Edomites and Israelites often find themselves at odds, fulfilling the prophecy given to Rebekah in Genesis 25:23: "Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger." In summary, Eliphaz, as the son of Esau, plays a crucial role in the biblical narrative, both as a forefather of the Edomite nation and as a figure whose descendants impact the history and theology of the Israelite people. His legacy is intertwined with the broader themes of kinship, conflict, and divine providence that permeate the biblical text. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:4,10-16And Adah bore to Esau Eliphaz; and Bashemath bore Reuel; Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:35 Strong's Hebrew 464. Eliphaz -- "God is fine gold," a son of Esau, also a friend ...... Eliphaz. From 'el and paz; God of gold; Eliphaz, the name of one of Job's friends, and of a son of Esau -- Eliphaz. see HEBREW 'el. see HEBREW paz. 463, 464. ... /hebrew/464.htm - 6k Library Chapter xxxvi The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who was Adah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is retribution theology? | GotQuestions.org Is “you reap what you sow” biblical? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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