The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. All these were descendants of Keturah. The sons of MidianThe mention of Midian here is significant as it connects to the Midianites, a group that plays a notable role in later biblical narratives. Midian was one of the sons of Abraham through Keturah, and his descendants became a distinct people. The Midianites are often seen in the Bible as both allies and adversaries of Israel. The name "Midian" itself is derived from the Hebrew root "madad," meaning "to measure" or "to judge," which may reflect the role of the Midianites in the biblical narrative as a people who were often in conflict with Israel, serving as a measure of Israel's faithfulness to God. Ephah
Ephah is the first son listed and his name is associated with a unit of measure, which is interesting given the agricultural and trade practices of the time. The name "Ephah" is also linked to a region or tribe, suggesting that his descendants may have established a significant settlement or community. This reflects the broader theme of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, as even the sons of his concubine Keturah became progenitors of distinct groups. Epher
The name Epher is less commonly referenced in the Bible, but it is believed to mean "a calf" or "young deer," which could symbolize strength and vitality. This name, like others in the list, underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants. The mention of Epher and his brothers highlights the spread of Abraham's lineage beyond Isaac and Ishmael, indicating the vastness of his progeny. Hanoch
Hanoch, also spelled "Enoch" in some translations, means "dedicated" or "initiated." This name is shared with other notable biblical figures, such as Enoch, the ancestor of Noah who "walked with God." The repetition of this name in different contexts may suggest a theme of dedication to God or a life set apart for a specific purpose. In the context of Midian's sons, it may imply a continuation of a legacy of faith or a distinct role within the broader narrative of Abraham's descendants. Abida
The name Abida means "my father knows" or "father of knowledge." This name reflects a theme of wisdom and understanding, which is a valued trait in biblical literature. The inclusion of Abida among Midian's sons may suggest that his descendants were known for their insight or leadership. It also reinforces the idea that the blessings and promises given to Abraham extended to all his children, not just those through Sarah. Eldaah
Eldaah means "God has called" or "God is knowledge." This name emphasizes the divine involvement in the lives of Abraham's descendants. It suggests a recognition of God's sovereignty and the belief that God is the source of true wisdom. The presence of such a name among Midian's sons highlights the spiritual heritage passed down from Abraham, who was called by God to be the father of many nations. All these were the sons of Keturah
This phrase serves as a reminder of Keturah's role in Abraham's life and the continuation of his lineage through her. Keturah, whose name means "incense" or "fragrance," symbolizes a new chapter in Abraham's life after Sarah's death. Her sons, including those of Midian, represent the fulfillment of God's promise to make Abraham the father of many nations. This underscores the theme of God's faithfulness and the expansive nature of His blessings, which extend beyond the immediate family of Isaac to include all of Abraham's offspring. Persons / Places / Events 1. MidianMidian is one of the sons of Abraham through Keturah, his wife after Sarah's death. The Midianites, his descendants, play a significant role in later biblical accounts. 2. EphahEphah is one of Midian's sons. His name is often associated with a region or a tribe, and he is mentioned in prophetic literature as a symbol of wealth and trade. 3. EpherAnother son of Midian, Epher's name is less frequently mentioned, but he is part of the lineage that contributes to the broader account of the descendants of Abraham. 4. HanochHanoch, also a son of Midian, shares a name with other biblical figures, indicating a commonality in naming and possibly cultural or familial significance. 5. Abida and EldaahThese sons of Midian are mentioned together, rounding out the list of Midian's offspring. Their names contribute to the genealogical record that underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to make him a father of many nations. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness to His PromisesThe genealogy of Keturah's sons demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to Abraham to make him a father of many nations. This encourages believers to trust in God's promises in their own lives. The Complexity of God's PlanThe descendants of Keturah, including the Midianites, show that God's plan includes a wide array of people and nations, some of whom play both positive and negative roles in the biblical account. This complexity invites believers to consider how God might be working in unexpected ways in their own lives. Legacy and InfluenceThe mention of these descendants highlights the importance of legacy and influence. Believers are encouraged to consider the impact of their lives and how they contribute to God's overarching account. Cultural and Familial ConnectionsThe shared names and connections among biblical figures remind us of the importance of family and cultural heritage. Believers are encouraged to honor their own heritage while recognizing their place in God's family. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the genealogy of Keturah's sons in Genesis 25:4 reflect God's promise to Abraham, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness? 2. In what ways do the descendants of Midian impact the broader biblical account, and how can this inform our understanding of God's plan in our lives? 3. Considering the role of the Midianites in the account of Moses and Gideon, what can we learn about the complexity of relationships and God's sovereignty? 4. How does the mention of Ephah in Isaiah 60:6 connect to the promise of blessings to all nations through Abraham's descendants? 5. Reflect on your own family and cultural heritage. How can you honor this heritage while recognizing your identity in Christ and your role in God's account? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 25:1-2Provides context by listing Keturah as Abraham's wife and the mother of Midian, establishing the family lineage. Exodus 2:15-21The Midianites, descendants of Midian, play a role in Moses' life when he flees to Midian and marries Zipporah, a Midianite woman. Judges 6-8The Midianites are significant in the account of Gideon, where they are portrayed as oppressors of Israel, showing the complex relationship between Israel and the descendants of Abraham through Keturah. Isaiah 60:6Mentions Ephah in a prophecy about the wealth of nations coming to Israel, indicating the lasting impact of these descendants. People Abraham, Abida, Abidah, Adbeel, Aram, Asshurim, Asshurites, Bethuel, Dedan, Dumah, Eldaah, Enoch, Ephah, Epher, Ephron, Esau, Hadad, Hadar, Hagar, Hanoch, Havilah, Heth, Hittites, Isaac, Ishbak, Ishmael, Jacob, Jetur, Jokshan, Kedar, Kedemah, Keturah, Laban, Letushim, Letushites, Leummim, Leummites, Mamre, Massa, Medan, Mibsam, Mishma, Naphish, Nebaioth, Nebajoth, Rebekah, Sarah, Shuah, Tema, Zimran, Zoar, ZoharPlaces Assyria, Beer-lahai-roi, Egypt, Machpelah, Mamre, Paddan-aram, Shur DesertTopics Abida, Abi'da, Abidah, Descendants, Eldaah, Elda'ah, Enoch, Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Keturah, Ketu'rah, Midian, Mid'ian, Offspring, SonsDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 25:1-4 5078 Abraham, significance Library Pottage Versus Birthright
Esau despised his birthright'--GENESIS xxv. 34. Broad lessons unmistakable, but points strange and difficult to throw oneself back to so different a set of ideas. So I. Deal with the narrative. Not to tell it over again, but bring out the following points:-- (a) Birthright.--What? None of them any notion of sacred, spiritual aspect of it. To all, merely material advantages: headship of the clan. All the loftier aspects gone from Isaac, who thought he could give it for venison, from Esau, and from …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Death of Abraham
'Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.'--GENESIS xxv. 8. 'Full of years' does not seem to me to be a mere synonym for longevity. That would be an intolerable tautology, for we should then have the same thing said three times over--'an old man,' 'in a good old age,' 'full of years.' There must be some other idea than that in the words. If you notice that the expression is by no means a usual one, that it is only …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Jacob and Esau
(Second Sunday in Lent.) GENESIS xxv. 29-34. And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint: therefore was his name called Edom. And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. Then …
Charles Kingsley—The Gospel of the Pentateuch Jesus Heals Multitudes Beside the Sea of Galilee.
^A Matt. XII. 15-21; ^B Mark III. 7-12. ^a 15 And Jesus perceiving it withdrew ^b with his disciples ^a from thence: ^b to the sea [This was the first withdrawal of Jesus for the avowed purpose of self-preservation. After this we find Jesus constantly retiring to avoid the plots of his enemies. The Sea of Galilee, with its boats and its shores touching different jurisdictions, formed a convenient and fairly safe retreat]: ^a and many followed him; ^b and a great multitude from Galilee followed; and …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Every Believer's Birthright.
On every hand a lack of something is being felt and expressed by God's people. Their Christian experience is not what they expected it would be. Instead of expected victory, it is oft-recurring, dreaded defeat; instead of soul satisfaction, it is soul hunger; instead of deep, abiding heart rest, it is disquiet and discontent; instead of advancing, it is losing ground. Is this all Christ meant when He said, "Come unto Me"? Is this life of constant disappointment the normal life of the Bible Christian? …
John MacNeil—The Spirit-Filled Life Second Great Group of Parables.
(Probably in Peræa.) Subdivision D. Parable of the Lost Son. ^C Luke XV. 11-32. ^c 11 And he said, A certain man had two sons [These two sons represent the professedly religious (the elder) and the openly irreligious (the younger). They have special reference to the two parties found in the first two verses of this chapter --the Pharisees, the publicans and sinners]: 12 and the younger of them [the more childish and easily deceived] said to his father, Father, give me the portion of thy substance …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Conflict.
"Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the Cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against themselves, that ye …
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews John the Baptist's Person and Preaching.
(in the Wilderness of Judæa, and on the Banks of the Jordan, Occupying Several Months, Probably a.d. 25 or 26.) ^A Matt. III. 1-12; ^B Mark I. 1-8; ^C Luke III. 1-18. ^b 1 The beginning of the gospel [John begins his Gospel from eternity, where the Word is found coexistent with God. Matthew begins with Jesus, the humanly generated son of Abraham and David, born in the days of Herod the king. Luke begins with the birth of John the Baptist, the Messiah's herald; and Mark begins with the ministry …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel But if Moreover any not Having Charity, which Pertaineth to the Unity of Spirit...
23. But if moreover any not having charity, which pertaineth to the unity of spirit and the bond of peace whereby the Catholic Church is gathered and knit together, being involved in any schism, doth, that he may not deny Christ, suffer tribulations, straits, hunger, nakedness, persecution, perils, prisons, bonds, torments, swords, or flames, or wild beasts, or the very cross, through fear of hell and everlasting fire; in nowise is all this to be blamed, nay rather this also is a patience meet to …
St. Augustine—On Patience Of the Effects of those Prerogatives.
From these prerogatives there will arise to the elect in heaven, five notable effects:-- 1. They shall know God with a perfect knowledge (1 Cor. i. 10), so far as creatures can possibly comprehend the Creator. For there we shall see the Word, the Creator; and in the Word, all creatures that by the Word were created; so that we shall not need to learn (of the things which were made) the knowledge of him by whom all things were made. The most excellent creatures in this life, are but as a dark veil …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House Officers, Taxation, Publicans
It was the very busiest road in Palestine, on which the publican Levi Matthew sat at the receipt of "custom," when our Lord called him to the fellowship of the Gospel, and he then made that great feast to which he invited his fellow-publicans, that they also might see and hear Him in Whom he had found life and peace (Luke 5:29). For, it was the only truly international road of all those which passed through Palestine; indeed, it formed one of the great highways of the world's commerce. At the time …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Genesis
The Old Testament opens very impressively. In measured and dignified language it introduces the story of Israel's origin and settlement upon the land of Canaan (Gen.--Josh.) by the story of creation, i.-ii. 4a, and thus suggests, at the very beginning, the far-reaching purpose and the world-wide significance of the people and religion of Israel. The narrative has not travelled far till it becomes apparent that its dominant interests are to be religious and moral; for, after a pictorial sketch of …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Genesis 25:4 NIVGenesis 25:4 NLTGenesis 25:4 ESVGenesis 25:4 NASBGenesis 25:4 KJV
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