What number verse is Genesis 36:13 in the Bible?

Genesis 36:13 is the 1,054th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Genesis 36:13 sits at position 1,054.

Translation

King James Version

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

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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.

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Complete Jewish Bible

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

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Berean Standard Bible

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

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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.

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World English Bible Messianic

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

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And these are the sonnes of Reuel: Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah: these were the sonnes of Bashemath Esaus wife.

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Young's Literal Translation

And these are sons of Reuel: Nahath and Zerah, Shammah and Mizzah; these were sons of Bashemath wife of Esau.

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Study This Verse

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. 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 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 and Obadiah 1. 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, 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), 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 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. 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 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 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.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

At first glance, a genealogical list like Genesis 36:13 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, 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 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) 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 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) 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, Jesus Christ, the ultimate "seed" promised to Abraham (Galatians 3:16).

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Commentary on Genesis 36 verses 9–19

9 ¶ And these are the generations of Esau the father of the Edomites in mount Seir:

10 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.

11 And the sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, and Gatam, and Kenaz.

12 And Timna was concubine to Eliphaz Esau's son; and she bare to Eliphaz Amalek: these were the sons of Adah Esau's wife.

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

14 And these were the sons of Aholibamah, the daughter of Anah the daughter of Zibeon, Esau's wife: and she bare to Esau Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah.

15 These were dukes of the sons of Esau: the sons of Eliphaz the firstborn son of Esau; duke Teman, duke Omar, duke Zepho, duke Kenaz,

16 Duke Korah, duke Gatam, and duke Amalek: these are the dukes that came of Eliphaz in the land of Edom; these were the sons of Adah.

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.

18 And these are the sons of Aholibamah Esau's wife; duke Jeush, duke Jaalam, duke Korah: these were the dukes that came of Aholibamah the daughter of Anah, Esau's wife.

19 These are the sons of Esau, who is Edom, and these are their dukes.

Observe here, 1. That only the names of Esau's sons and grandsons are recorded, only their names, not their history; for it is the church that Moses preserves the records of, not the record of those that are without. Those elders that lived by faith alone obtained a good report. It is Sion that produces men of renown, not Seir, Psa 87:5. Nor does the genealogy go any further than the third and fourth generation; the very names of all after are buried in oblivion. It is only the pedigree of the Israelites, who were to be the heirs of Canaan, and of whom were to come the promised seed, and the holy seed, that is drawn out to any length, as far as there was occasion for it, even of all the tribes till Canaan was divided among them, and of the royal line till Christ came. 2. That these sons and grandsons of Esau are called dukes, Gen 36:15-19. Probably they were military commanders, dukes, or captains, that had soldiers under them; for Esau and his family lived by the sword, Gen 27:40. Note, Titles of honour have been more ancient out of the church than in it. Esau's sons were dukes when Jacob's sons were but plain shepherds, Gen 47:3. This is not a reason why such titles should not be used among Christians; but it is a reason why men should not overvalue themselves, or others, for the sake of them. There is an honour that comes from God, and a name in his house that is infinitely more valuable. Edomites may be dukes with men, but Israelites indeed are made to our God kings and priests. 3. We may suppose those dukes had numerous families of children and servants that were their dukedoms. God promised to multiply Jacob, and to enrich him; yet Esau increases, and is enriched first. Note, It is no new thing for the men of this world to be full of children, and to have their bellies too filled with hidden treasures, Psa 17:14. God's promise to Jacob began to work late, but the effect of it remained longer, and it had its complete accomplishment in the spiritual Israel.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 9–19. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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