1 Chronicles 1:39

KJV

And the sons of Lotan; Hori, and Homam: and Timna [was] Lotan's sister.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Lotan {H3877}; Hori {H2753}, and Homam {H1950}: and Timna {H8555} was Lotan's {H3877} sister {H269}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam; the sister of Lotan was Timna.

Berean Standard Bible

The sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam. Timna was Lotan’s sister.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Lotan: Hori, and Homam; and Timna was Lotan’s sister.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 1:39 serves as a precise genealogical entry within the Chronicler's extensive opening chapters, meticulously tracing the lineage of the Horites, an indigenous people group of Seir preceding the Edomites. This verse specifically enumerates Lotan's sons, Hori and Homam, and notably identifies Timna as Lotan's sister, a seemingly minor detail that provides a crucial intertextual link to broader biblical narratives concerning the origins of peoples who profoundly interacted with early Israel. It underscores the Chronicler's commitment to a comprehensive historical record, establishing the intricate web of relationships among ancient Near Eastern groups and subtly foreshadowing future historical developments.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles commences with nine chapters of detailed genealogies, a distinctive and foundational characteristic that sets the stage for the subsequent historical narrative. These meticulous lists serve as the bedrock upon which the Chronicler builds his account, tracing humanity from Adam, through Abraham and the lineage of Israel, and then detailing various surrounding nations, including the Horites and Edomites. Verse 39 is strategically placed within the section enumerating the "sons of Seir the Horite" (1 Chronicles 1:38), immediately following the listing of Seir's direct descendants. The Chronicler's deliberate inclusion of these non-Israelite lineages, particularly those connected to Esau, highlights the broader historical and geopolitical stage upon which God's covenant people would operate. The specific mention of Timna here echoes and reinforces the earlier, more expansive account found throughout [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"), demonstrating the profound intertextual coherence and continuity of the biblical record.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Horites, whose name likely means "cave-dwellers," were an ancient people group firmly established in the mountainous region of Seir (modern Edom) prior to the arrival and eventual dominance of Esau's descendants. Their inclusion in these foundational genealogies reflects the historical reality of intermingling, coexistence, and eventual displacement or absorption of various peoples in the ancient Near East. Genealogies in this period were far more than mere lists of names; they fulfilled vital socio-political and religious functions. They were essential for establishing tribal identity, validating claims to land, conferring legitimacy upon leaders, and defining the complex relationships between clans and nations. For the post-exilic community, for whom the Chronicler primarily wrote, these meticulous records were absolutely crucial for re-establishing their identity, tribal affiliations, and land rights after the profound disruption of the Babylonian captivity, providing a vital sense of continuity with their ancestral past and a tangible affirmation of God's enduring covenant.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, along with the broader genealogical sections of 1 Chronicles, contributes significantly to several profound theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it powerfully emphasizes **God's meticulous oversight of history** by demonstrating a divine interest in the origins, relationships, and movements of all peoples, not solely Israel. Every individual and nation, whether directly within the covenant line or not, plays a part in the unfolding of God's sovereign plan. Secondly, it highlights the **interconnectedness of humanity**, illustrating how seemingly disparate groups are intricately woven into a single, divinely orchestrated historical tapestry. The inclusion of figures like Timna, whose offspring (Amalek) would become a persistent and formidable adversary of Israel, subtly introduces the theme of **divine providence** and the complex dynamics of the ancient world that God orchestrates for His ultimate purposes. This detailed record-keeping further underscores the Bible's unwavering commitment to **historical veracity**, grounding its profound theological claims in concrete, verifiable lineages, even as it points towards the ultimate lineage of the Messiah, as meticulously traced in [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lotan (Hebrew, _Lôwṭân'_):** From לוֹט, meaning "covering." Lotan is identified as an Idumaean (Edomite) figure, specifically a chief or duke of the Horites in Seir, as also listed in [Genesis 36:20](/genesis/36-20 "Genesis 36:20 - Sons of Seir the Horite"). His inclusion here underscores the Chronicler's reliance on and confirmation of earlier Mosaic traditions, solidifying the historical continuity of the biblical narrative concerning the pre-Edomite inhabitants of Seir.
* **Hori (Hebrew, _Chôrî'_):** Also חוֹרִי, meaning "cave-dweller" or "noble." Hori is listed as one of Lotan's sons. The name itself is significant as it reflects the very designation of the people group, the Horites, suggesting a connection to their geographical dwelling in caves or their social status. His presence here further details the internal structure and lineage of the Horite clans.
* **Timna (Hebrew, _Timnâʿ'_):** From מָנַע, meaning "restraint." Timna is uniquely highlighted as Lotan's sister. Her specific mention is crucial because [Genesis 36:12](/genesis/36-12 "Genesis 36:12 - Timna and Amalek") identifies her as a concubine of Eliphaz (Esau's son) and the mother of Amalek. This seemingly minor detail in 1 Chronicles 1:39 serves as a vital intertextual link, connecting the Horite genealogy directly to the lineage of Israel's future, formidable enemy, the Amalekites, thereby enriching the historical and prophetic backdrop of the entire biblical narrative.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Lotan; Hori, and Homam:"** This opening clause explicitly names two of Lotan's male descendants, Hori and Homam. This follows the typical genealogical pattern of listing male offspring to establish lineage, inheritance, and succession. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping here demonstrates a profound concern for comprehensive historical detail, ensuring that the reader understands the full extent of the Horite family tree, which predated and significantly interacted with the Edomite descendants of Esau.
* **"and Timna [was] Lotan's sister."** This concluding phrase is particularly noteworthy and deliberate. While genealogies primarily focus on male lines for continuity, the inclusion of Timna, identified specifically as Lotan's sister, is a significant detail. Her relationship to Lotan firmly establishes her place within the Horite lineage. More importantly, this specific mention serves as a crucial cross-reference to the Genesis account, where Timna's pivotal role as the mother of Amalek is highlighted. This seemingly simple statement thus carries profound historical and theological implications, subtly introducing the ancestral origins of a people group that would become a persistent and formidable adversary to Israel, demonstrating the Chronicler's nuanced and purposeful approach to historical record-keeping.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 1:39, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of the book, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list but a highly structured narrative device that serves to establish historical continuity, tribal identity, and profound theological connections. Within this genealogical framework, the Chronicler employs **Selection** and **Emphasis**; while countless names could have been listed, the specific inclusion of Timna and her precise relationship to Lotan demonstrates a deliberate choice to highlight a detail that possesses broader narrative and prophetic significance (foreshadowing the Amalekites). Furthermore, the meticulous and exhaustive nature of the record-keeping itself functions as a form of **Validation**, lending irrefutable authority and historical grounding to the biblical narrative. The strong intertextual connection to [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau") also exemplifies **Allusion** or **Intertextuality**, where a brief mention in one text assumes the reader's knowledge of a more detailed account elsewhere, thereby enriching the current passage with layers of meaning, historical context, and thematic depth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Although 1 Chronicles 1:39 appears as a simple list of names, its theological significance lies in its profound contribution to the overarching biblical narrative of God's sovereign control over history and His meticulous attention to every detail. The inclusion of Horite genealogies, even for those outside the direct covenant line of Israel, underscores the profound truth that all nations and individuals exist within God's grand, unfolding design. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is not merely the God of Israel, but the God of all creation, orchestrating the movements of peoples and the rise and fall of nations to accomplish His ultimate, redemptive purposes. The specific mention of Timna, whose progeny (Amalek) would become a sworn enemy of Israel, subtly highlights the reality of conflict and opposition within God's historical plan, yet always under His ultimate dominion and control. This detailed record-keeping serves to firmly ground the redemptive narrative in concrete historical realities, demonstrating that God's promises and plans unfold within the tangible framework of human history, not in abstract ideals.

* [Genesis 36:20](/genesis/36-20 "Genesis 36:20 - The Sons of Seir the Horite")
* [Deuteronomy 2:12](/deuteronomy/2-12 "Deuteronomy 2:12 - Horites Displaced by Edomites")
* [Ezra 2:59](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59 - Importance of Genealogies for Returning Exiles")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 1:39, like many genealogical passages, challenges us to look beyond the surface of seemingly dry lists and discern the profound, living truths embedded within them. It invites us to contemplate God's incredible attention to detail, His sovereign hand orchestrating the lives of individuals and nations across millennia, and the intricate interconnectedness of all history, both sacred and secular. For the original audience, the returning exiles, these genealogies were a vital anchor, re-establishing their identity, affirming their place within God's enduring covenant story, and providing hope for the future. For us today, it serves as a powerful and comforting reminder that our lives, our families, and even the broader sweep of human history are not random or chaotic but are intimately known, meticulously recorded, and sovereignly overseen by a God who works all things according to the counsel of His perfect will. It encourages us to trust in His providence, even when circumstances seem chaotic or insignificant, knowing that every detail, every person, and every historical event is a carefully placed thread in His magnificent tapestry of redemption.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of biblical genealogies, even for non-Israelite peoples, deepen your understanding of God's comprehensive sovereignty over all of history?**
* **What does the inclusion of seemingly minor figures like Timna, whose story has broader implications, teach us about the significance of every individual within God's grand narrative?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's attention to historical detail in passages like this strengthen your faith in His personal care for your own life and circumstances?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so prominent in 1 Chronicles, and what is their purpose?**

Answer: Genealogies are exceptionally prominent in 1 Chronicles, comprising its first nine chapters, because they serve as the foundational framework for the entire book. Their primary purpose for the post-exilic community was multifaceted: to establish and validate the identity of the returning exiles, confirming their lineage and tribal affiliations after the profound disruption of the Babylonian captivity ([Ezra 2:59-63](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59-63 - Genealogies for Returning Exiles")); to demonstrate continuity with Israel's sacred past, particularly with the Davidic covenant and the legitimate priestly lines; and to emphasize God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving His people and His promises through countless generations. By meticulously tracing lineages from Adam to their present, the Chronicler affirmed that God's redemptive plan was unfolding precisely as intended, providing profound hope and stability for a community seeking to rebuild its spiritual and national identity.

**What is the significance of Timna being mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of Timna as Lotan's sister in 1 Chronicles 1:39 is highly significant because it provides a crucial intertextual link to the book of Genesis. [Genesis 36:12](/genesis/36-12 "Genesis 36:12 - Timna, Concubine of Eliphaz and Mother of Amalek") reveals that Timna was a concubine of Eliphaz, one of Esau's sons, and that she bore him Amalek. The Amalekites would later become a persistent and formidable enemy of Israel throughout its history, from their initial attack in the wilderness wanderings ([Exodus 17:8-16](/exodus/17-8 "Exodus 17:8-16 - Amalek Attacks Israel")) to the time of King Saul ([1 Samuel 15:1-9](/1_samuel/15-1 "1 Samuel 15:1-9 - Saul and the Amalekites")). By including this seemingly minor detail, the Chronicler subtly connects the Horite lineage to the ancestral origins of a significant adversary, enriching the historical backdrop and demonstrating the intricate, divinely orchestrated relationships between nations in the ancient world, all of which play a role in God's sovereign plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 1:39 meticulously details the lineage of non-Israelite Horites, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the broader theological principle that God's meticulous oversight of all history, including the genealogies of every nation and tribe, ultimately converges on His grand redemptive plan culminating in Jesus Christ. The very existence of such detailed records, even for peoples seemingly peripheral to Israel's direct covenant line, profoundly underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all humanity and His providential preparation of the world for the advent of His Son. Just as the Chronicler painstakingly traces human lineage to establish the historical reality of God's covenant with Israel and the Davidic line, so too do the New Testament genealogies of Jesus in [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") firmly anchor the Incarnation in concrete, verifiable history. The profound truth that Christ's own genealogy includes Gentiles (such as Rahab and Ruth) demonstrates that God's plan of salvation, though focused through Israel, was always intended to encompass all peoples, fulfilling the ancient Abrahamic promise that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). Thus, even the seemingly obscure details of Horite families contribute to the grand, divinely woven tapestry of human history, meticulously preparing the stage for the coming of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), reconciling all things to Himself.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 36:22

And the children of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and Lotan's sister [was] Timna.

Deuteronomy 2:22

As he did to the children of Esau, which dwelt in Seir, when he destroyed the Horims from before them; and they succeeded them, and dwelt in their stead even unto this day:

Deuteronomy 2:12

The Horims also dwelt in Seir beforetime; but the children of Esau succeeded them, when they had destroyed them from before them, and dwelt in their stead; as Israel did unto the land of his possession, which the LORD gave unto them.