Topical Encyclopedia Korah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of Esau, the brother of Jacob, who is also known as Israel. Esau is a significant patriarchal figure in the Old Testament, and his descendants are often referred to as Edomites. Korah is one of the sons of Esau, and his lineage is briefly outlined in the Book of Genesis.Genealogy and Family Background Korah is listed as a son of Esau through his wife Oholibamah. The genealogical record in Genesis 36 provides insight into Esau's family and the establishment of the Edomite tribes. Genesis 36:5 states, "And Oholibamah bore Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These were the sons of Esau, who were born to him in the land of Canaan." This passage highlights Korah as one of the three sons born to Esau and Oholibamah, indicating his role in the expansion of Esau's lineage. Further in Genesis 36:14 , the text reiterates, "These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah: chief Jeush, Jalam, and Korah." This repetition underscores the importance of these figures in the genealogical record, as they are identified as chiefs, or leaders, within the Edomite community. Role and Significance Korah, as a descendant of Esau, is part of the broader narrative of the Edomites, who play a significant role in the history of Israel. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, often had a contentious relationship with the Israelites, descendants of Jacob. This tension is rooted in the fraternal conflict between Esau and Jacob, which is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. While Korah himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives beyond the genealogical listings, his inclusion in the lineage of Esau signifies the continuation of Esau's line and the establishment of the Edomite tribes. The Edomites are frequently mentioned in the context of their interactions and conflicts with the Israelites, and Korah's lineage contributes to the understanding of these historical and familial dynamics. Cultural and Historical Context The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as records of ancestry but also as frameworks for understanding the relationships between different peoples and nations in the biblical world. The mention of Korah and his brothers as chiefs suggests a level of authority and leadership within the Edomite community. This leadership role is indicative of the structured tribal society that characterized the ancient Near East. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, occupied the region south of the Dead Sea, known as Edom. This area was strategically significant, and the Edomites' interactions with neighboring nations, including Israel, are documented throughout the Old Testament. The genealogical records, including the mention of Korah, provide a foundation for understanding these interactions and the historical context of the biblical narrative. Conclusion Korah, as a son of Esau, represents a link in the genealogical chain that connects the patriarchal narratives of Genesis to the broader history of the Israelite and Edomite peoples. His mention in the genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage in the biblical text and highlights the complex relationships between the descendants of Esau and Jacob. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:5,14,18And Aholibamah bore Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah: these are the sons of Esau, which were born to him in the land of Canaan. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xxxvi Endurance of the World's Censure. Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. Epistle Lxxii. To Jubaianus, Concerning the Baptism of Heretics. The Pentateuch. Matt. xii. 9, 10 The Ministerial Office Sovereignty of God in Administration Epistle Lxiii. Limenius, Bishop of Vercell??, Having Died, the See ... The Barren Fig-Tree; Resources Who was Eleazar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Numbers | GotQuestions.org Who are the authors of the book of Psalms? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |