Genesis 36:13

KJV

And these [are] the sons of Reuel; Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah: these were the sons of Bashemath Esau's wife.

KJV (with Strong's)

And these are the sons {H1121} of Reuel {H7467}; Nahath {H5184}, and Zerah {H2226}, Shammah {H8048}, and Mizzah {H4199}: these were the sons {H1121} of Bashemath {H1315} Esau's {H6215} wife {H802}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Re'u'el were Nachat, Zerach, Shammah and Mizah. These were the sons of Basmat 'Esav's wife.

Berean Standard Bible

These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath.

American Standard Version

And these are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah: these were the sons of Basemath, Esau’s wife.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 36:13 meticulously records the four sons of Reuel—Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah—born to Bashemath, one of Esau's wives. This verse is a precise entry within the comprehensive genealogical account of Esau's descendants, serving to delineate the emerging Edomite nation and underscore the Bible's commitment to detailed historical record-keeping in tracing the distinct lineages of peoples outside the direct covenant line of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis chapter 36 functions as a pivotal genealogical interlude, providing a comprehensive account of Esau's descendants, often referred to as [Edom](/genesis/25-30 "Esau's Name Change to Edom"). Placed strategically between the narratives of Jacob's growing family and his eventual reunion with Esau, this chapter serves to clearly separate the lineage of Esau and the formation of the Edomite nation from the unfolding story of Jacob (Israel) and his twelve sons. [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 - Sons of Reuel") specifically details the progeny of Reuel, who is identified as a son of Esau through his wife Bashemath. This particular verse, by listing Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah, contributes to the intricate family tree that would eventually form the foundational clans and chiefs of Edom, a significant and often adversarial neighbor to ancient Israel. The inclusion of such granular detail emphasizes the distinct, divinely ordered trajectories of these two brother nations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Genealogies were profoundly important in the ancient Near East, serving as legal documents, historical records, and declarations of identity, inheritance, and tribal affiliation. They established legitimacy for rulers, justified land claims, and defined social structures. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, settled in the mountainous region of Seir, south and east of the Dead Sea, which later became known as Edom. Their proximity to Israel meant frequent interactions, often marked by conflict, as seen in later biblical books like [Numbers 20](/numbers/20 "Numbers 20 - Edom Refuses Passage to Israel") and [Obadiah 1](/obadiah/1 "Obadiah 1 - Judgment on Edom"). The specific mention of Bashemath as Esau's wife is crucial for clarity, as Esau had multiple wives, and identifying the maternal line was essential for distinguishing family branches and ensuring the accuracy of the record, reflecting the cultural norms of precise lineage tracking.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader context of [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"), contributes to several major theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Sovereignty** over nations, demonstrating God's meticulous ordering of all peoples, not just the covenant line of Israel. Secondly, it illustrates the **Fulfillment of God's Broader Promises** to Abraham, that he would be the father of many nations ([Genesis 17:4-6](/genesis/17-4-6 "God's Covenant with Abraham: Father of Many Nations")), even through lines like Esau's that were not chosen for the specific covenant of salvation. Thirdly, it underscores the **Distinction of Nations**, clearly delineating the Edomites from the Israelites, a separation crucial for understanding their future interactions and unique destinies within God's overarching plan. Finally, the inclusion of such specific details reinforces the **Meticulousness and Historical Reliability of Scripture**, affirming that every detail, even seemingly minor genealogical entries, is part of a divinely inspired and trustworthy record.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 KJV") states, "And these [are] the sons of Reuel; Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah: these were the sons of Bashemath Esau's wife." This verse is a concise, declarative statement, characteristic of the genealogical records prevalent throughout the Old Testament, designed to provide a clear and authoritative account of lineage.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên_ H1121):** From a root meaning "to build," this term signifies a male offspring, but in a broader sense, it encompasses descendants, members of a group, or even those sharing a common quality or condition. In this context, it emphasizes the direct male lineage and the foundational role these individuals play in building the family and, by extension, the emerging nation of Edom. The repetition of "sons" reinforces the patriarchal structure and the focus on generational continuity.
* **Reuel (Hebrew, _Rᵉʻûwʼêl_ H7467):** Meaning "friend of God," this name appears for several individuals in the Old Testament, including Moses' father-in-law. Here, it identifies Esau's son through Bashemath, serving as a crucial link in the Edomite genealogy. The name's meaning, while not directly applied to the character's actions in this context, highlights the common practice of theophoric names (names containing a divine element) in ancient cultures, reflecting a connection to the divine.
* **Bashemath (Hebrew, _Bosmath_ H1315):** Derived from a word meaning "fragrance," Bashemath is identified as one of Esau's wives and the mother of Reuel's sons. Her name, also spelled Basmath, is significant in distinguishing her from Esau's other wives (e.g., Adah, Oholibamah) and ensuring the precise tracing of specific family branches within the complex Edomite lineage. The mention of the mother's name provides critical clarity in ancient genealogies.
* **Mizzah (Hebrew, _Mizzâh_ H4199):** Likely derived from an unused root meaning "to faint with fear," this name, meaning "terror," is one of Reuel's four sons. While the individual meanings of these names (Nahath: "quiet," Zerah: "rising," Shammah: "astonishment") are interesting, their primary function in this verse is to serve as markers in the genealogical record, contributing to the comprehensive list of Edomite chiefs and clans that follow in [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"). The specific meaning of Mizzah, though not elaborated upon in the text, offers a glimpse into the potential character or circumstances associated with his birth or early life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And these [are] the sons of Reuel;":** This opening clause employs a common genealogical formula in Hebrew, "And these are the generations of..." or "these are the sons of...", which serves to introduce a new section of a family record. It clearly establishes the direct paternal lineage, identifying Reuel as the father whose immediate offspring are about to be listed. This formula provides structure and clarity to the extensive genealogical accounts.
* **"Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah:":** This segment lists the four specific individuals who are Reuel's sons. While their individual lives are not detailed in Scripture, their inclusion is vital for the comprehensive mapping of the Edomite tribes. These names would later represent various clans or sub-tribes within the Edomite nation, demonstrating the meticulousness with which the biblical authors recorded the origins of neighboring peoples.
* **"these were the sons of Bashemath Esau's wife.":** This concluding clause provides crucial clarification and confirmation, identifying the specific maternal line for Reuel's sons. By naming Bashemath, who is further identified as "Esau's wife," the text eliminates any ambiguity about the precise branch of Esau's family being described. This detail reinforces the accuracy and thoroughness of the biblical record, ensuring that the reader can precisely trace the lineage back to Esau through a specific marital union.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 KJV") and throughout this chapter is **Genealogical Formula**. The repetitive use of phrases like "these are the sons of" or "these are the generations of" provides a clear, consistent structure, emphasizing lineage and succession. This formulaic approach lends authority and historical weight to the text, presenting the information as an undeniable record. Related to this is **Enumeration**, the simple listing of names, which serves to systematically build the family tree. While seemingly straightforward, this enumeration is a deliberate literary choice that highlights the growth and diversification of Esau's descendants, leading to the formation of a distinct nation. The **Repetition** of "sons" (H1121) further reinforces the focus on male lineage and the continuity of the family line, underscoring the patriarchal nature of ancient societies and the importance of male heirs for tribal identity and perpetuation. These devices collectively serve the overarching purpose of the chapter: to meticulously document the origins of the Edomite nation, distinct from Israel, thus providing a foundational historical context for future biblical narratives.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 - Sons of Reuel") appears to be a simple genealogical entry, it is rich with theological implications. It demonstrates God's sovereign hand not only in the covenant line of Israel but also in the formation and ordering of all nations. The meticulous record of Esau's descendants, even though they were not the chosen people of the covenant, underscores God's comprehensive knowledge and involvement in the history of all humanity. This detail affirms the fulfillment of God's broader promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, extending beyond just Isaac's direct line. It also establishes the distinct identity of Edom, setting the stage for their future interactions with Israel, which were often marked by conflict, yet always under God's ultimate control. The very existence and detailed record of these lineages speak to the reliability and divine inspiration of Scripture, assuring us that God's plan is precise and all-encompassing.

* [Genesis 17:4-6](/genesis/17-4-6 "God's Covenant with Abraham: Father of Many Nations")
* [Deuteronomy 2:4-5](/deuteronomy/2-4-5 "God's Command Regarding Edom")
* [Acts 17:26](/acts/17-26 "God Determined the Times and Boundaries of Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
At first glance, a genealogical list like [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 KJV") might seem like a dry historical record, far removed from daily spiritual life. However, its inclusion in the inspired Word of God carries profound significance. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign orchestration of all history, encompassing not only the chosen covenant line but also every nation and individual. This verse encourages us to trust in a God who is intimately involved in the grand sweep of human history, ensuring that His overarching redemptive plan unfolds precisely as intended. It also deepens our appreciation for the accuracy and trustworthiness of the Bible, affirming that even the seemingly minor details are part of a divinely preserved record. For believers today, this reinforces the conviction that God's plan for our lives, though perhaps not always clear in every detail, is equally precise and purposeful, inviting us to rest in His providential care.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Bible's meticulous record-keeping, even in genealogies, strengthen your faith in its divine inspiration and historical reliability?**
* **What does the inclusion of Esau's lineage reveal about God's sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel, and how might this shape your worldview?**
* **In what ways can understanding the historical context of such genealogies deepen your appreciation for God's unfolding redemptive plan throughout history?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies like Genesis 36:13 included in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial for several reasons: they establish historical lineage and identity, confirm the fulfillment of divine promises regarding descendants, differentiate various peoples and their origins, and provide a framework for understanding geographical and political relationships in the ancient world. In [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"), this verse and the surrounding chapter specifically delineate the Edomite nation from Israel, demonstrating God's sovereign ordering of all peoples and preparing the reader for future interactions between these distinct nations.

**Does this verse have direct spiritual application for believers today?**

Answer: While [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 KJV") does not offer direct commands or moral lessons, it provides significant spiritual application by reinforcing the Bible's reliability and God's faithfulness to His promises, even to those outside the direct covenant line. It encourages trust in God's meticulous plan, His comprehensive oversight of history, and His sovereign care for every individual and nation. It reminds us that every detail in Scripture, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the grand narrative of God's redemptive work.

**Why is Bashemath specifically mentioned as Esau's wife?**

Answer: Mentioning Bashemath (also known as Mahalath in [Genesis 28:9](/genesis/28-9 "Esau Marries Mahalath")) is vital for providing clarity and precision within the genealogical record. In ancient cultures, identifying both the paternal and maternal lines was crucial for establishing tribal affiliation, inheritance rights, and social standing. This specific detail ensures that the reader can accurately trace the lineage of Reuel's sons to a particular branch of Esau's family, reinforcing the detailed accuracy and historical integrity of the biblical text.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 36:13](/genesis/36-13 "Genesis 36:13 KJV") focuses on the lineage of Esau, distinct from the covenant line of Jacob, it profoundly points towards Christ by highlighting the precision and intentionality of God's overarching redemptive plan. The meticulous detailing of Esau's descendants underscores the deliberate and careful preservation of the lineage through Jacob, from whom the Messiah would ultimately come. By clearly delineating the generations of Esau (Edom) as separate from Israel, the text implicitly emphasizes the unique, divinely appointed path through which the promise of a Savior would be fulfilled. This distinction serves as a crucial backdrop, making the eventual arrival of Christ through the specific, carefully traced line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus Christ")) all the more significant. It demonstrates that God's plan for salvation was not a random event but a precise, historical unfolding, culminating in the incarnation of the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), Jesus Christ, the ultimate "seed" promised to Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Seed is Christ")).

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 36:17

And these [are] the sons of Reuel Esau's son; duke Nahath, duke Zerah, duke Shammah, duke Mizzah: these [are] the dukes [that came] of Reuel in the land of Edom; these [are] the sons of Bashemath Esau's wife.

1 Chronicles 1:37

The sons of Reuel; Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.