Topical Bible: Hadad: Successor of Baal-Hanan, King of Edom: Called Hadar In

◄ Hadad: Successor of Baal-Hanan, King of Edom: Called Hadar In ►

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Hadad, also referred to as Hadar in some biblical texts, was a king of Edom, a region located to the south of the Kingdom of Judah. His reign is noted in the genealogical records of the Edomite kings, which are detailed in the Old Testament. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, and thus shared a complex and often contentious relationship with the Israelites.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Hadad as a king of Edom is found in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 36:39 , it is recorded: "When Baal-Hanan son of Achbor died, Hadad reigned in his place. His city was named Pau, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-Zahab."

In this passage, Hadad is identified as the successor to Baal-Hanan, indicating a continuation of leadership in Edom. The mention of his city, Pau, and his wife, Mehetabel, provides additional context to his reign and personal life. The genealogical listing underscores the historical and familial connections within the Edomite leadership.

Alternate Name: Hadar

In 1 Chronicles 1:50 , Hadad is referred to as Hadar: "When Baal-Hanan died, Hadad reigned in his place. His city was named Pai, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-Zahab." The variation in the name from Hadad to Hadar is a textual difference that appears in some translations and manuscripts. This discrepancy is not uncommon in ancient texts, where variations in spelling and pronunciation can occur.

Historical and Theological Context:

The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, held a significant place in the biblical narrative. Their interactions with the Israelites were marked by both kinship and conflict. The reign of Hadad, like other Edomite kings, is part of the broader narrative of the nations surrounding Israel and their relationships with God's chosen people.

From a theological perspective, the mention of Edomite kings in the Bible serves to highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to Esau, as well as the unfolding of His divine plan through the history of Israel and its neighbors. The genealogies and records of these kings, including Hadad, are a testament to the historical reality of these nations and their rulers.

Cultural and Political Significance:

Hadad's reign, as recorded in the biblical genealogies, reflects the structured leadership and governance of Edom. The mention of his city, Pau, suggests a center of power and administration. The inclusion of his wife's lineage further emphasizes the importance of familial ties and alliances in the political landscape of the time.

In summary, Hadad's role as a king of Edom is a small yet significant part of the biblical narrative, illustrating the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern peoples and the unfolding of God's purposes through history.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 36:39
And Baalhanan the son of Achbor died, and Hadar reigned in his stead: and the name of his city was Pau; and his wife's name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Chapter xxxvi
... 7. Baal-Hanan"son of Achbor. ... king, he continued to use the royal city of his predecessor
until his successor in turn ... "Hadar" (v.39) is called "Hadad" in 1 ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm