Hori is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. He is identified as the son of Lotan, who was one of the chiefs of the Horites. The Horites were an ancient people who inhabited the region of Seir before the Edomites, the descendants of Esau, took possession of the land. The name "Hori" itself is likely derived from the term "Horite," indicating a connection to this group.

Biblical References:

Hori is mentioned in the context of the genealogies found in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 36:20-21 , 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." Lotan is listed as one of the sons of Seir, and Hori is identified as one of Lotan's sons.

The genealogical record continues in Genesis 36:29-30 , which further emphasizes the leadership roles within the Horite community: "These are the chiefs of the Horites: Chief Lotan, Chief Shobal, Chief Zibeon, Chief Anah, Chief Dishon, Chief Ezer, and Chief Dishan. These are the chiefs of the Horites, according to their divisions, in the land of Seir."

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Horites were a group of people who lived in the mountainous region of Seir, which is located in the southern part of modern-day Jordan. They are often associated with the cave-dwelling peoples of the ancient Near East. The Horites were eventually displaced or absorbed by the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau. This transition is reflected in the biblical narrative, where the land of Seir becomes synonymous with Edom.

The mention of Hori and his family in the genealogies serves to establish the historical and territorial claims of the Edomites over the land of Seir. It also highlights the interconnectedness of the various peoples and tribes in the region during the patriarchal period.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Hori and the Horites in the biblical genealogies underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The land of Seir, initially inhabited by the Horites, becomes part of the inheritance of Esau's descendants, fulfilling the divine promise of land and nationhood. This narrative also illustrates the broader theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and His orchestration of history to accomplish His purposes.

The genealogies, including those of the Horites, serve as a testament to the historical reality of the biblical narrative and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of the patriarchs.Genesis 36:22,30
And the children of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and Lotan's sister was Timna.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:39
And the sons of Lotan; Hori, and Homam: and Timna was Lotan's sister.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxvi
... And the children of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and the sister ... who was the father
of Oholibamah, was a son of Seir. ... So to seek to connect "Lotan" (v.20) with Lot ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

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