Genesis 36
BSB1 This is the account of Esau (that is, Edom). 2 Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah daughter of Elon the Hittite, Oholibamah daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite, 3 and Basemath daughter of Ishmael and sister of Nebaioth. 4 And Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau, Basemath gave birth to Reuel, 5 and Oholibamah gave birth to Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These were the sons of Esau, who were born to him in the land of Canaan. 6 Later, Esau took his wives and sons and daughters and all the people of his household, along with his livestock, all his other animals, and all the property he had acquired in Canaan, and he moved to a land far away from his brother Jacob. 7 For their possessions were too great for them to dwell together; the land where they stayed could not support them because of their livestock. 8 So Esau (that is, Edom) settled in the area of Mount Seir. 9 This is the account of Esau, the father of the Edomites, in the area of Mount Seir. 10 These are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz son of Esau’s wife Adah, and Reuel son of Esau’s wife Basemath. 11 The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz. 12 Additionally, Timna, a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz, gave birth to Amalek. These are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Adah. 13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath. 14 These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah (daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon) whom she bore to Esau: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. 15 These are the chiefs among the sons of Esau. The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, 16 Korah, Gatam, and Amalek. They are the chiefs of Eliphaz in the land of Edom, and they are the grandsons of Adah. 17 These are the sons of Esau’s son Reuel: Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the chiefs descended from Reuel in the land of Edom, and they are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath. 18 These are the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah: Chiefs Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. They are the chiefs descended from Esau’s wife Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah. 19 All these are the sons of Esau (that is, Edom), and they were their chiefs. 20 These are the sons of Seir the Horite, who were living in the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, 21 Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. They are the chiefs of the Horites, the descendants of Seir in the land of Edom. 22 The sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam. Timna was Lotan’s sister. 23 These are the sons of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam. 24 These are the sons of Zibeon: Aiah and Anah. (This is the Anah who found the hot springs in the wilderness as he was pasturing the donkeys of his father Zibeon.) 25 These are the children of Anah: Dishon and Oholibamah daughter of Anah. 26 These are the sons of Dishon: Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran. 27 These are the sons of Ezer: Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan. 28 These are the sons of Dishan: Uz and Aran. 29 These are the chiefs of the Horites: Chiefs Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, 30 Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. They are the chiefs of the Horites, according to their divisions in the land of Seir. 31 These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites: 32 Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom; the name of his city was Dinhabah. 33 When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. 34 When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place. 35 When Husham died, Hadad son of Bedad, who defeated Midian in the country of Moab, reigned in his place. And the name of his city was Avith. 36 When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place. 37 When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place. 38 When Shaul died, Baal-hanan son of Achbor reigned in his place. 39 When Baal-hanan son of Achbor died, Hadad reigned in his place. His city was named Pau, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-zahab. 40 These are the names of Esau’s chiefs, according to their families and regions, by their names: Chiefs Timna, Alvah, Jetheth, 41 Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon, 42 Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar, 43 Magdiel, and Iram. These were the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land they possessed. Esau was the father of the Edomites.
Study Notes — Genesis 36
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Genesis 36
- Themes from Genesis 36
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Genesis 36
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Genesis chapter 36 begins by listing the descendants of Esau, including his wives, sons, and grandsons. The chapter then describes the kings who ruled over Edom before any king ruled over the Israelites, highlighting the distinctiveness of the Edomite nation. The chapter also mentions the chiefs of Esau, who are listed according to their clans and territories. Key verses such as Genesis 36:1, Genesis 36:9, and Genesis 36:31 provide important information about Esau's family and the Edomite kingdom. This chapter serves as a bridge between the stories of Isaac and Jacob, highlighting the complexities of family relationships and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Context for the Chapter
Genesis chapter 36 is situated between the stories of Isaac and Jacob, highlighting the complexities of family relationships and the fulfillment of God's promises. The chapter serves as a bridge between the two stories, providing important information about Esau's family and the Edomite kingdom. The context of the chapter is also important for understanding the larger narrative of the book of Genesis, which tells the story of creation, sin, and redemption.
Heart Application
As we read through Genesis chapter 36, we are reminded of the importance of understanding our own heritage and the role of family in God's plan. We are also encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances. By reflecting on the story of Esau and his descendants, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate redemption that comes through Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Genesis chapter 36 is about the family of Esau, who is also known as Edom. The chapter lists the names of Esau's wives, sons, and grandsons, and describes the kings who ruled over Edom. This chapter helps us understand the importance of family and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in Genesis 36:1 and Genesis 36:9.
Voices from the Church
“The Holy Spirit has seen fit to record the genealogy of Esau, that we might know that God's providence extends to all nations and families, and that His sovereignty is not limited to the Israelites alone.”
— John Calvin
“The story of Esau and his descendants serves as a reminder that God's ways are not our ways, and that His thoughts are not our thoughts. We must trust in His sovereignty and providence, even when we do not understand the complexities of His plan.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Esau's Descendants (Genesis 36:1-5) — The chapter begins by introducing Esau's wives and sons, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises.
- The Kings of Edom (Genesis 36:31-39) — The chapter describes the kings who ruled over Edom, emphasizing the distinctiveness of the Edomite nation and its leadership.
- The Chiefs of Esau (Genesis 36:15-30) — The chapter lists the chiefs of Esau, highlighting the leadership and organization of the Edomite nation.
- The Genealogy of Esau (Genesis 36:6-14) — The chapter provides a detailed genealogy of Esau's descendants, emphasizing the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises.
- Conclusion (Genesis 36:40-43) — The chapter concludes by summarizing the genealogy of Esau and emphasizing the importance of understanding one's heritage and the role of family in God's plan.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- The chapter highlights God's sovereignty in the establishment of the Edomite nation and the fulfillment of His promises to Esau and his descendants.
- Providence of God
- The chapter demonstrates God's providence in the lives of Esau and his descendants, highlighting His care and guidance even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances.
- Importance of Family
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of family lines and the role of family in God's plan, highlighting the significance of understanding one's heritage and the fulfillment of God's promises.
- Redemption
- The chapter points to the larger narrative of redemption, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ and the redemption of all nations.
Lessons from Genesis 36
- The Importance of Understanding One's Heritage — The chapter highlights the significance of understanding one's heritage and the role of family in God's plan.
- The Sovereignty of God in All Things — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty in the establishment of the Edomite nation and the fulfillment of His promises to Esau and his descendants.
- The Providence of God in Complex Circumstances — The chapter shows God's providence in the lives of Esau and his descendants, highlighting His care and guidance even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances.
- The Ultimate Fulfillment of God's Promises — The chapter points to the larger narrative of redemption, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ and the redemption of all nations.
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — The chapter encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even when we do not understand the complexities of His plan.
Themes from Genesis 36
- Family and Heritage — The chapter highlights the importance of family lines and the role of family in God's plan.
- Sovereignty and Providence — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of Esau and his descendants, highlighting His care and guidance even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances.
- Redemption and Fulfillment — The chapter points to the larger narrative of redemption, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ and the redemption of all nations.
- Leadership and Organization — The chapter lists the chiefs of Esau, highlighting the leadership and organization of the Edomite nation.
- Genealogy and Legacy — The chapter provides a detailed genealogy of Esau's descendants, emphasizing the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the chapter reveal about the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises?
- How does the story of Esau and his descendants serve as a backdrop for the story of Jacob and his descendants?
- What does the chapter teach about God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of individuals and nations?
- How does the chapter connect to the theme of redemption and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ?
- What practical lessons can be learned from the story of Esau and his descendants, and how can they be applied to our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Esau's Descendants (Genesis 36:1-5)
| 36:1 | The chapter begins by introducing Esau's wives and sons, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 36:2 | The verse lists Esau's wives, including Adah, Oholibamah, and Basemath. |
2. The Genealogy of Esau (Genesis 36:6-14)
| 36:6 | The verse describes Esau's move to Seir, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 36:9 | The verse provides a detailed genealogy of Esau's descendants, emphasizing the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
3. The Chiefs of Esau (Genesis 36:15-30)
| 36:15 | The verse lists the chiefs of Esau, highlighting the leadership and organization of the Edomite nation. |
| 36:20 | The verse describes the sons of Seir, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
4. The Kings of Edom (Genesis 36:31-39)
| 36:31 | The verse describes the kings who ruled over Edom, emphasizing the distinctiveness of the Edomite nation and its leadership. |
| 36:35 | The verse lists the kings of Edom, highlighting the importance of leadership and organization in the Edomite nation. |
5. Conclusion (Genesis 36:40-43)
| 36:40 | The verse concludes the chapter by summarizing the genealogy of Esau and emphasizing the importance of understanding one's heritage and the role of family in God's plan. |
| 36:43 | The verse provides a final summary of the Edomite nation, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the genealogy of Esau in Genesis chapter 36?
The genealogy of Esau is significant because it highlights the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in Genesis 36:1 and Genesis 36:9. The detailed list of names and relationships provides a sense of continuity and connection to the past.
Who were the kings of Edom, and what was their significance?
The kings of Edom are listed in Genesis 36:31-39, and they played an important role in the leadership and organization of the Edomite nation. The kings of Edom are significant because they highlight the distinctiveness of the Edomite nation and its leadership, as seen in Genesis 36:31 and Genesis 36:35.
What does the chapter teach about God's sovereignty and providence?
The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of Esau and his descendants, highlighting His care and guidance even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances, as seen in Genesis 36:1 and Genesis 36:9.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 36:1 → Romans 9:13 | The story of Esau and Jacob is referenced in Romans 9:13, highlighting God's sovereignty in election. |
| 2 | Genesis 36:9 → Hebrews 12:16 | The warning against being like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal, is referenced in Hebrews 12:16. |
| 3 | Genesis 36:31 → 1 Chronicles 1:43-54 | The kings of Edom are also listed in 1 Chronicles 1:43-54, highlighting the importance of leadership and organization in the Edomite nation. |
| 4 | Genesis 36:40 → Genesis 25:23 | The prophecy that the older will serve the younger is referenced in Genesis 25:23, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 5 | Genesis 36:1 → Genesis 25:19-26 | The story of Esau and Jacob is introduced in Genesis 25:19-26, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 6 | Genesis 36:9 → Genesis 27:1-40 | The story of Esau and Jacob is continued in Genesis 27:1-40, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 7 | Genesis 36:31 → Genesis 35:1-15 | The kings of Edom are also referenced in Genesis 35:1-15, highlighting the importance of leadership and organization in the Edomite nation. |
| 8 | Genesis 36:40 → Genesis 28:1-22 | The story of Esau and Jacob is concluded in Genesis 28:1-22, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 9 | Genesis 36:1 → Deuteronomy 2:4-12 | The Edomite nation is also referenced in Deuteronomy 2:4-12, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 10 | Genesis 36:9 → Isaiah 34:1-17 | The Edomite nation is also referenced in Isaiah 34:1-17, highlighting the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
Sermons on Genesis 36
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Genesis) Genesis 36:15-43 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the genealogy and history of the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding this family hi |
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(Genesis) Genesis 36:1-12 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the generations of Esau, who is also known as Edom. Esau took wives from the daughters of Canaan, and he had a large household and possession |
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Genesis #21 Ch. 35-37 Joseph, the Dreamer by Chuck Missler | In this sermon, Chuck Missler discusses Genesis chapters 35 through 37. He begins by praying for understanding and guidance from the Holy Spirit. He then highlights the importance |
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(Genesis) 52 - Lessons From the Generations of Esau by S. Lewis Johnson | In this sermon, the speaker acknowledges that there are certain chapters in the Bible that are difficult to expound systematically, such as Genesis chapter 36 and the genealogies i |
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Esau and Jacob by J. Vernon McGee | J. Vernon McGee delves into the prophecy of Obadiah, shedding light on the mysterious figure and the significance of Edom in the Bible. Through the story of Esau and Jacob, he illu |
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Through the Bible - Genesis 32-36 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith explores Genesis chapters 32 to 36, focusing on Jacob's journey back to his brother Esau and the transformative encounter he has with God. Jacob, fearful of Esau's pote |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Genesis 36
In his commentary on Genesis 36, Matthew Henry notes that the Holy Spirit has seen fit to record the genealogy of Esau, that we might know that God's providence extends to all nations and families, and that His sovereignty is not limited to the Israelites alone. Henry emphasizes the importance of understanding one's heritage and the role of family in God's plan, highlighting the significance of the Edomite nation and its leadership. He also notes that the chapter teaches us about God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of complex family relationships and uncertain circumstances. Ultimately, Henry concludes that the chapter points to the larger narrative of redemption, highlighting the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ and the redemption of all nations. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Family Lines
The chapter highlights the significance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. The detailed genealogy of Esau's descendants emphasizes the importance of understanding one's heritage and the role of family in God's plan.
The Distinctiveness of the Edomite Nation
The chapter describes the Edomite nation as a distinct entity, with its own kings, chiefs, and territories. This highlights the complexity of the ancient Near Eastern world and the various nations that existed during that time.
The Use of Genealogy
The use of genealogy in this chapter serves to emphasize the importance of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises. The detailed lists of names and relationships provide a sense of continuity and connection to the past.