Genesis 36:10

KJV

These [are] the names of Esau's sons; Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau, Reuel the son of Bashemath the wife of Esau.

KJV (with Strong's)

These are the names {H8034} of Esau's {H6215} sons {H1121}; Eliphaz {H464} the son {H1121} of Adah {H5711} the wife {H802} of Esau {H6215}, Reuel {H7467} the son {H1121} of Bashemath {H1315} the wife {H802} of Esau {H6215}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The names of 'Esav's sons were Elifaz, son of 'Adah the wife of 'Esav, and Re'u'el the son of Basmat the wife of 'Esav.

Berean Standard Bible

These are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz son of Esau’s wife Adah, and Reuel son of Esau’s wife Basemath.

American Standard Version

these are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau, Reuel the son of Basemath the wife of Esau.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 36:10 serves as a foundational entry in the extensive genealogical record of Esau, also known as Edom, explicitly naming his sons Eliphaz and Reuel, along with their mothers, Adah and Bashemath. This verse initiates the detailed enumeration of Esau's descendants, providing crucial insight into the distinct lineage and early formation of the Edomite nation, which would develop in parallel to the nation of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis chapter 36 is a comprehensive genealogical account dedicated entirely to Esau and his descendants, the Edomites. It is strategically placed immediately after the detailed narratives of Jacob's family and his reconciliation with Esau in [Genesis 35](/genesis/35 "Genesis 35 - Jacob's Return to Bethel and Rachel's Death"). This placement emphasizes the distinct, yet parallel, development of these two brother nations. While Jacob's story progresses towards the formation of Israel, this chapter ensures that Esau's lineage, which also received a divine blessing of fruitfulness, is fully documented, setting the stage for future interactions between the two peoples. It acts as a transitional chapter, concluding the patriarchal narratives and preparing for the focus on Israel's journey into Egypt.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, detailed genealogies were not merely dry lists but vital documents for establishing identity, validating claims to land and inheritance, and asserting tribal or national legitimacy. For nomadic or semi-nomadic peoples like the early Edomites, such records defined their social structure and place among neighboring groups. Esau's descendants settled in the mountainous region of Seir, south of the Dead Sea, which would become known as Edom. The mention of specific wives and their sons in [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau") reflects the patriarchal societal structure where lineage was traced through the father, but the mother’s identity was crucial for distinguishing branches within the emerging family and tribal units. This meticulous record highlights the formation of a distinct nation, fulfilling a part of God's broader promise of numerous descendants to Abraham, which extended to his grandsons.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 36:10 contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **God's Sovereign Plan and Faithfulness**, demonstrating that His providential care extends to all peoples, not just the chosen line of Jacob. Though the primary covenant promises flow through Jacob, Esau's numerous offspring show God's blessing of fruitfulness, as seen in [Isaac's blessing over Esau](/genesis/27-39-40 "Isaac's Blessing for Esau"). Secondly, it highlights the **Significance of Lineage and Identity**, emphasizing how genealogies define who people are, their inheritance, and their role in the unfolding divine drama. This chapter meticulously distinguishes the Edomite lineage from the Israelite, laying the **Groundwork for Future Interactions** between these two nations, which would often be characterized by conflict, as later recounted in books like [Numbers 20](/numbers/20 "Numbers 20 - Water from the Rock and Edom's Refusal"). Finally, it subtly reinforces the theme of **Divine Blessing and Fulfillment**, showing that God’s word, even regarding the less prominent line, comes to pass.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 36:10 states: "These [are] the names of Esau's sons; Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau, Reuel the son of Bashemath the wife of Esau." This verse initiates a detailed enumeration of Esau's descendants, establishing the primary branches of the Edomite nation. It highlights the specific familial lines that would contribute to the formation of this distinct people, tracing their ancestry through Esau's wives, Adah and Bashemath.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **names (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** From H8034, meaning "an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character." In this context, "names" signifies more than mere labels; they represent the distinct identities, lineages, and future character of the individuals and the nations they would found. The listing of names is an act of establishing and memorializing the foundational figures of the Edomite people.
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From H1121, meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc.)." The term "sons" here emphasizes the role of Eliphaz and Reuel as the primary progenitors and "builders" of Esau's family line, which would expand into a significant nation. It highlights their foundational role in the Edomite genealogy.
* **Eliphaz (Hebrew, _ʼĔlîyphaz'_):** From H464, meaning "God of gold." This name, combining "God" (El) with "gold" (paz), suggests a connection to divine value or strength. Eliphaz is the firstborn son of Esau and a prominent figure, later appearing as one of Job's three friends, known as Eliphaz the Temanite, indicating the significant clan that descended from him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"These [are] the names of Esau's sons;"**: This introductory clause serves as a clear heading for the subsequent enumeration, signaling that the following details will list the principal male offspring of Esau. It emphasizes the formal and authoritative nature of this genealogical record, establishing the core lineage from which the Edomite nation would grow.
* **"Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau,"**: This part identifies Eliphaz as the first son listed, specifying his mother, Adah. The inclusion of the mother's name is crucial for distinguishing between Esau's various wives and their respective descendants, thereby delineating distinct branches of the Edomite family tree. Eliphaz, as the firstborn, holds a place of prominence.
* **"Reuel the son of Bashemath the wife of Esau."**: This clause introduces Reuel, the second son mentioned in this verse, and identifies his mother as Bashemath. Similar to the mention of Adah, this clarifies Reuel's maternal lineage, further segmenting Esau's progeny into distinct family lines. The meticulous detailing of both father and mother underscores the comprehensive nature of this foundational genealogy.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Genesis 36:10, and indeed throughout the entire chapter, is **Genealogy**. This is a list of ancestors and their descendants, meticulously cataloging family lines. The purpose of biblical genealogies is not merely historical record-keeping but also to establish identity, validate claims, and trace the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. In this verse, the genealogical structure clearly delineates the foundational branches of Esau's family. Another device is **Repetition**, particularly of the phrase "the son of... the wife of Esau," which reinforces the patriarchal structure and the direct lineage from Esau, emphasizing the distinct family units emerging from his different wives. This repetitive pattern lends a formal, almost legalistic, tone to the record, underscoring its importance in establishing national origins.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 36:10, though a seemingly simple genealogical entry, is rich with theological and thematic significance. It underscores God's meticulous oversight of all human history, not just the chosen line of Israel. The detailed record of Esau's descendants demonstrates God's faithfulness to His broader promises of fruitfulness and nation-building, even for those outside the direct covenant line that leads to the Messiah. This verse, therefore, highlights the divine providence that orchestrates the rise and development of all nations, preparing the stage for their future interactions and their ultimate place within God's universal plan. It also subtly emphasizes the theme of distinct identities and destinies, as the Edomite nation begins its separate trajectory from Israel.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Table of Nations")
* [Deuteronomy 2:4-5](/deuteronomy/2-4-5 "Deuteronomy 2:4-5 - God's Command Regarding Edom")
* [Malachi 1:2-3](/malachi/1-2-3 "Malachi 1:2-3 - God's Love for Jacob, Hatred for Esau")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a genealogical list like Genesis 36:10 might initially appear dry or insignificant to the modern reader, it offers profound truths for reflection and application. It reminds us of God's expansive faithfulness, demonstrating that His blessings and providential care extend widely, even to those outside the direct covenant line of Israel. This verse encourages us to recognize that God is at work in all of history, shaping nations and individuals according to His sovereign plan. Understanding our origins, both personal and communal, helps us grasp our identity and place within the grand narrative of God's work in the world. Furthermore, this verse underscores the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate families and nations, often through shared ancestry, highlighting how their histories influence one another, as seen in the complex relationship between [Esau's descendants and Jacob's descendants](/genesis/25-23 "The Two Nations from Rebekah's Womb"). This brief entry contributes significantly to the rich tapestry of biblical history, laying crucial groundwork for future interactions between Israel and Edom and illustrating the breadth of God's providence. It prompts us to consider how our own family histories, though perhaps not recorded in Scripture, are part of a larger divine story.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detailing of Esau's lineage in this verse challenge or expand your understanding of God's providence and faithfulness beyond the direct covenant line?**
* **What significance do genealogies, like the one in Genesis 36:10, hold for understanding identity, inheritance, and the unfolding of God's plan in your own life or community?**
* **In what ways might understanding the origins of nations, even those seemingly peripheral to the main biblical narrative, deepen your appreciation for God's comprehensive oversight of history?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies so important in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible serve multiple critical purposes. They establish historical continuity, demonstrating the fulfillment of God's promises across generations. They define tribal and national identities, validating land claims and inheritance rights. Crucially, they trace the lineage of key figures, ultimately leading to the Messiah, proving His rightful claim to the Davidic throne, as seen in the opening of the New Testament with [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus").

**What is the significance of listing Esau's wives in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of Esau's wives, Adah and Bashemath, alongside their sons, is significant because it clarifies the maternal lines through which the various clans and tribes of Edom would descend. In ancient patriarchal societies, while lineage was primarily traced through the father, the mother's identity was crucial for distinguishing branches within a family and understanding the composition of the emerging nation. This detail provides clarity on the distinct family units that would form the diverse Edomite clans, as further elaborated in [Genesis 36:15-19](/genesis/36-15-19 "Genesis 36:15-19 - The Chiefs of Esau").

**How does Edom relate to Israel in later biblical history?**

Answer: Edom, descended from Esau, and Israel, descended from Jacob, were "brother nations" with a complex and often antagonistic relationship throughout biblical history. Despite their shared ancestry, they frequently engaged in conflict, particularly over territory and power, as evidenced by Edom's refusal to allow Israel passage through their land in [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage"). The prophets often pronounced judgment against Edom for its hostility towards Israel, highlighting their distinct destinies within God's broader plan, as seen in [Obadiah 1:10-14](/obadiah/1-10-14 "Obadiah 1:10-14 - Edom's Violence Against Jacob").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Genesis 36:10 meticulously details the lineage of Esau, a line not directly leading to the Messiah, it nonetheless contributes to the overarching narrative of God's sovereign plan that culminates in Christ. The meticulous recording of all lineages, even those outside the direct covenant, underscores the reality of human history unfolding under divine providence, demonstrating that God is the Lord of all nations, not just Israel. Ultimately, every genealogy in Scripture, by establishing the historical context of humanity's development and the separation of peoples into distinct nations, indirectly points to the profound need for a universal Savior who transcends national and familial divisions. Christ's own genealogy, meticulously recorded in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus"), fulfills the promises made to Abraham and David, demonstrating that God's plan, which began with the separation of peoples at Babel and the call of Abraham, ultimately converges in the one Mediator who breaks down all dividing walls (as described in [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")) and brings all nations into His kingdom, fulfilling the promise that in Abraham's seed "all the families of the earth shall be blessed" ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")).

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

1 Chronicles 1:35

The sons of Esau; Eliphaz, Reuel, and Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah.

1 Chronicles 1:54

Duke Magdiel, duke Iram. These [are] the dukes of Edom.

Genesis 36:3

And Bashemath Ishmael's daughter, sister of Nebajoth.

Genesis 36:4

And Adah bare to Esau Eliphaz; and Bashemath bare Reuel;