Genesis 36:18 - These are the sons of Oholibamah, Esau’s wife: chief Jeush, chief Jalam, chief Korah: these are the chiefs who came of Oholibamah the daughter of Anah, Esau’s wife.

Generated Verse: Genesis 36:18

What does "Genesis 36:18" mean?


Genesis 36 is dedicated to listing the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel). Verse 18 specifically focuses on the sons (chiefs) of Oholibamah, one of Esau's wives. Let's break down the meaning:

"These are the sons of Oholibamah, Esau’s wife:" This clearly identifies the individuals being listed as the offspring of Oholibamah and Esau. Oholibamah was a Canaanite woman, which was a point of contention with Esau's parents (Isaac and Rebekah) who preferred him to marry within their own people.

"chief Jeush, chief Jalam, chief Korah:" The verse names three sons: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. The term "chief" (Hebrew: alluph) indicates that these sons became leaders or heads of clans or tribes within Esau's lineage. They were significant figures who established their own groups.

"these are the chiefs who came of Oholibamah the daughter of Anah, Esau’s wife." This reiterates that these chiefs descended from Oholibamah, further specifying her as the daughter of Anah. This repetition emphasizes Oholibamah's role in the lineage and establishes her ancestry.

In essence, this verse is a genealogical statement, recording the names of three prominent descendants of Esau through his wife Oholibamah. The title "chief" signifies their leadership roles and the establishment of distinct clans or tribes within the broader Edomite nation that arose from Esau's descendants. The repetition about Oholibamah's lineage reinforces her importance in this particular branch of Esau's family tree.

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