Topical Encyclopedia Zerah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is identified as the father of Jobab, a king of Edom. The reference to Zerah is found in the Book of Genesis, which provides a lineage of the Edomite kings, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 36:33 · "When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place." This passage situates Zerah within the context of the Edomite monarchy, indicating his role as the progenitor of Jobab, who succeeded Bela as king. The mention of Bozrah, a significant city in Edom, suggests that Zerah's family held a position of prominence and influence in the region. Genealogical Context: Zerah is part of the broader genealogical record of Esau's descendants, which is detailed in Genesis 36. This chapter outlines the lineage of Esau, also known as Edom, and his descendants who became the rulers of the land of Edom. The genealogy serves to establish the historical and familial connections between the Edomites and the Israelites, as Esau was the brother of Jacob, later named Israel. Historical and Theological Significance: The mention of Zerah and his son Jobab in the biblical text underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4). Esau, as a descendant of Abraham, became the progenitor of the Edomites, a distinct nation that played a significant role in the history of the region. From a theological perspective, the genealogies in Genesis, including the mention of Zerah, highlight the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of human history. They demonstrate how God's purposes are worked out through various lineages, even those outside the direct line of the covenant people, Israel. Cultural and Geographical Context: Edom, where Zerah's lineage is situated, was located to the southeast of Israel, in the region that is now part of modern-day Jordan. The Edomites were known for their wisdom and strategic location along trade routes, which contributed to their wealth and influence. Bozrah, mentioned in connection with Zerah, was one of the principal cities of Edom and is frequently referenced in prophetic literature as a symbol of Edom's power and eventual judgment (Isaiah 34:6, Jeremiah 49:13). Conclusion: While the biblical text provides limited information about Zerah himself, his inclusion in the genealogical record of Genesis 36 serves to connect the narrative of the Edomite kings to the broader account of God's dealings with the descendants of Abraham. Through figures like Zerah, the Bible illustrates the complex interplay of familial, national, and divine narratives that shape the history of the ancient Near East. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:33And Bela died, and Jobab the son of Zerah of Bozrah reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:44 Library Chapter xxxvi Resources Who was Judah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Asa in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of the Valley of Achor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |