Genesis 36:17

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.

Study Bible

These are the sons of Esau’s son Reuel:
Reuel is one of the sons of Esau, who is also known as Edom. Esau's lineage is significant as it represents the Edomites, a group often in conflict with Israel. Reuel's name means "friend of God," which is notable given the often adversarial relationship between the Edomites and the Israelites. This lineage highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4).

Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah:
The term "chiefs" indicates a tribal or clan leadership structure, common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah are leaders among the Edomites, suggesting a well-organized society. The mention of these chiefs underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Esau that he would become a great nation (Genesis 25:23). Zerah is a name that appears elsewhere in the Bible, including in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:3), though this Zerah is a different individual.

They are the chiefs descended from Reuel in the land of Edom:
The land of Edom is located southeast of Israel, in present-day Jordan. It is a mountainous region, historically known for its wisdom and trade routes. The Edomites' descent from Reuel emphasizes the continuation of Esau's lineage and the establishment of a distinct nation. The Edomites' relationship with Israel is complex, marked by both kinship and conflict, as seen in passages like Numbers 20:14-21.

and they are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath:
Basemath, also known as Adah in some passages, is one of Esau's wives. Her inclusion here highlights the matrilineal aspect of the genealogy, which is less common in biblical records but significant in establishing family ties. The mention of Basemath connects the Edomite chiefs back to Esau, reinforcing the narrative of Esau's descendants as a fulfillment of God's promise to make him a father of nations. This lineage also serves as a reminder of the complex family dynamics between Esau and Jacob, which have broader implications for the history of Israel and Edom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuel
A son of Esau, who is the grandson of Isaac and Rebekah. Reuel is a significant figure in the lineage of Esau, representing the continuation of Esau's line through his son.

2. Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, Mizzah
These are the sons of Reuel, each holding the title of "chief," indicating their leadership roles within the Edomite community. Their mention highlights the establishment and organization of Esau's descendants in Edom.

3. Edom
The land where Esau's descendants settled. It is significant as the territory associated with Esau, also known as Edom, which means "red," reflecting Esau's physical characteristics and the red stew for which he sold his birthright.

4. Basemath
One of Esau's wives, the mother of Reuel. Her inclusion in the genealogy underscores the familial connections and the importance of maternal lineage in the biblical account.

5. Esau
The brother of Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah. Esau's descendants, the Edomites, play a significant role in the biblical history of Israel, often as adversaries.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage and Legacy
The genealogies in the Bible, such as the one in Genesis 36, remind us of the importance of family heritage and the impact of our ancestors on our identity and destiny.

Leadership and Responsibility
The mention of chiefs among Esau's descendants highlights the roles of leadership and responsibility within a community. As Christians, we are called to lead with integrity and serve others.

Understanding God's Sovereignty
Despite the conflicts and tensions between Esau's and Jacob's descendants, God's sovereign plan unfolds through history. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace amidst life's uncertainties.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The account of Esau and Jacob, and their descendants, serves as a reminder of the need for reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships, reflecting Christ's teachings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Esau, as described in Genesis 36:17, reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants?

2. In what ways can the leadership roles of Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah inspire us to take on responsibilities within our own communities?

3. How does the history of Edom and its relationship with Israel illustrate the consequences of unresolved family conflicts?

4. What lessons can we learn from the account of Esau and Jacob about the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness in our personal lives?

5. How can understanding the sovereignty of God, as seen in the unfolding of biblical history, help us trust Him more in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:30
This verse provides background on Esau's name, Edom, which is linked to the red stew for which he traded his birthright. This connection highlights the significance of names and their meanings in biblical accounts.

Genesis 27:41
Esau's animosity towards Jacob after losing his blessing is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the future interactions between the Israelites and Edomites.

Obadiah 1:1-21
The book of Obadiah prophesies against Edom, reflecting the ongoing tension and conflict between the descendants of Esau and Jacob.