Samlah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical and historical records of the ancient kingdom of Edom. His reign is noted in the context of the early monarchies that ruled over Edom before the establishment of kings in Israel. The primary biblical reference to Samlah is found in the Book of Genesis and is reiterated in the Book of 1 Chronicles.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 36:36-37 : "When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place. When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place."

2. 1 Chronicles 1:47-48 : "When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place. When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place."

These passages place Samlah in the line of Edomite kings, succeeding Hadad and preceding Shaul. The mention of his origin, Masrekah, provides a geographical context, though the exact location of Masrekah remains uncertain in modern scholarship. It is generally considered to be within the territory of Edom, which is located to the south of the Dead Sea, in present-day southern Jordan.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Edom, a nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob, was known for its rugged terrain and strategic location along trade routes. The Edomites were often in conflict with the Israelites, yet they shared a common ancestry. The list of Edomite kings in Genesis 36 and 1 Chronicles 1 is significant as it predates the monarchy in Israel, highlighting the established political structures in Edom.

The reign of Samlah, like other Edomite kings, is characterized by a lack of detailed narrative in the biblical text. This brevity suggests that the primary purpose of these genealogical records was to establish the historical legitimacy and continuity of Edomite leadership rather than to provide detailed accounts of their reigns.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Edomite kings, including Samlah, serves to underscore the fulfillment of God's promises to Esau. Despite the enmity between Edom and Israel, God's covenantal faithfulness extends to all descendants of Abraham, including those outside the chosen line of Jacob. The Edomite kingship reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His providential role in the unfolding of history.

Conclusion:

Samlah's brief mention in the biblical text invites reflection on the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern peoples and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history. His reign, though not elaborated upon, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Edomite nation and its place within the biblical narrative.Genesis 36:36,37
And Hadad died, and Samlah of Masrekah reigned in his stead.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:47,48
And when Hadad was dead, Samlah of Masrekah reigned in his stead.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxvi
... it is claimed, are still found at the point where the ancient pilgrimage route ... Not
one of these eight kings succeeded his father. ... 5. Samlah"from Masrekah. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus