Book of Genesis - Chapter 36 - Verse 17

In this verse from the book of Genesis, the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, are listed. Reuel, known as Esau's son, had four sons: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. These sons were considered dukes, indicating their leadership or noble status in the land of Edom. Bashemath, Esau's wife, bore these sons who would go on to become influential figures within the Edomite community. The mention of their titles as dukes signifies their importance and authority among their people. This genealogy serves to establish the lineage and hierarchy within the Edomite society, providing a glimpse into the structure of the community during that time period. The verse highlights the familial ties and social positions of Esau's descendants, shedding light on the cultural context and power dynamics within the land of Edom.

Within this verse, we see a genealogy of Esau's descendants, specifically focusing on the sons of Reuel, Esau's son. The term "duke" used here refers to leaders or chiefs within their respective tribes or clans. By listing the dukes Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah, the verse highlights the lineage and leadership roles within the land of Edom. Additionally, the mention of Bashemath, Esau's wife, connects the lineage back to the patriarch Esau himself. This genealogy serves to not only document the descendants of Esau but also to emphasize the importance of familial ties and leadership roles within the community. Through theological interpretation, we can glean insights into the significance of lineage, leadership, and the preservation of heritage as outlined in this verse.