Topical Encyclopedia Reuel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogies of Esau, the brother of Jacob. Reuel is recognized as one of the sons of Esau, the patriarch of the Edomites, and his wife Basemath, who was the daughter of Ishmael. This connection places Reuel within the broader narrative of the descendants of Abraham, highlighting the interwoven relationships between the families of Esau and Ishmael.Genealogy and Family Connections Reuel's lineage is detailed in the Book of Genesis, where he is listed among the descendants of Esau. Genesis 36:4 states, "And Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau, Basemath bore Reuel." This passage identifies Reuel as a direct descendant of Esau through Basemath, linking him to the Ishmaelite line through his maternal grandfather, Ishmael. This connection underscores the complex familial ties that characterize the patriarchal narratives of Genesis. Reuel's siblings, as mentioned in the genealogical records, include Eliphaz, Jeush, Jalam, and Korah, who were also sons of Esau by different wives. The genealogies in Genesis 36 provide a comprehensive list of Esau's descendants, emphasizing the establishment of the Edomite tribes and their leaders. Role and Significance Reuel's role in the biblical narrative is primarily genealogical, serving to illustrate the expansion and establishment of Esau's lineage. The descendants of Esau, including Reuel, are significant in the context of the Edomites, a group frequently mentioned throughout the Old Testament. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, often had a contentious relationship with the Israelites, the descendants of Jacob, Esau's twin brother. The name "Reuel" itself carries meaning, often interpreted as "friend of God" or "God is a friend." This name reflects the theophoric nature of many biblical names, which often incorporate elements of the divine name to convey a relationship with God. Cultural and Historical Context Reuel's mention in the genealogies of Genesis situates him within the broader historical and cultural context of the ancient Near East. The genealogical records serve not only as historical accounts but also as theological statements about the relationships between different peoples and their connections to the promises made to the patriarchs. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, played a significant role in the history of the region. Their interactions with the Israelites, as recorded in various biblical accounts, highlight the ongoing tensions and alliances that characterized the relationships between neighboring tribes and nations. Biblical References Reuel is specifically mentioned in the following biblical passages: · Genesis 36:4 : "And Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau, Basemath bore Reuel." · Genesis 36:10 : "These are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz the son of Esau’s wife Adah, and Reuel the son of Esau’s wife Basemath." · Genesis 36:13 : "These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They were the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath." These references provide insight into Reuel's place within the genealogical framework of Esau's descendants, underscoring his role in the establishment of the Edomite tribes. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:4,10,13,17And Adah bore to Esau Eliphaz; and Bashemath bore Reuel; Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:35,37 Library Chapter xxxvi Philo of Alexandria, the Rabbis, and the Gospels - the Final ... Resources Was Yahweh originally a Edomite or Canaanite god? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Moses' wife? Did Moses have more than one wife? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Kenites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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