What number verse is Genesis 36:26 in the Bible?

Genesis 36:26 is the 1,067th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Genesis 36:26 sits at position 1,067.

Translation

King James Version

And these are the children of Dishon; Hemdan, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

And these are the children ^H1121 of Dishon ^H1787; Hemdan ^H2533, and Eshban ^H790, and Ithran ^H3506, and Cheran ^H3763.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Dishon were Hemdan, Eshban, Yitran and K'ran.

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

These are the sons of Dishon: Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran.

Ask

American Standard Version

And these are the children of Dishon: Hemdan and Eshban and Ithran and Cheran.

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

These are the children of Dishon: Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran.

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Also these are the sonnes of Dishan: Hemdan, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

And these are sons of Dishon: Hemdan, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Genesis 36:26 is a specific entry within the extensive genealogical records of Esau, also known as Edom, meticulously listing the four sons of Dishon: Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran. This verse, like others in Genesis 36, serves to delineate the emerging nation of Edom, highlighting the intricate intermarriage between Esau's descendants and the indigenous Horite peoples, thereby establishing the historical and geographical context for future interactions with Israel. It underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage as a foundational element for understanding national identity, land claims, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through distinct peoples.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Genesis 36 is an expansive genealogical chapter dedicated entirely to the generations of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob. Following the detailed narratives of Jacob's family and his reconciliation with Esau in Genesis 32, Genesis 33, Genesis 34, Genesis 35, this chapter provides a comprehensive account of Esau's descendants, their wives, and the chiefs of Edom. It serves as a literary interlude before the narrative shifts back to Jacob's lineage, specifically the story of Joseph, which begins in Genesis 37. Within this chapter, Genesis 36:20-30 specifically details the Horite inhabitants of Seir, whose daughters Esau's sons married. Verse 26 is nestled within this Horite genealogy, identifying the children of Dishon, a son of Anah, who was a Horite chief. This detailed listing emphasizes the intermingling of Esau's descendants with the indigenous population, forming the Edomite nation.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, genealogies were not merely dry lists of names but vital documents that served multiple critical functions. They established tribal and national identity, validated claims to land and inheritance, recorded alliances, and preserved the historical and relational tapestry between families and nations. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, occupied the mountainous region of Seir, south and east of the Dead Sea, a territory previously inhabited by the Horites (Deuteronomy 2:12). The detailed inclusion of Horite genealogies alongside Esau's descendants in Genesis 36 highlights the cultural and genetic integration that occurred, forming the distinct Edomite people. This intermarriage was a common practice in the ancient world, solidifying political and economic ties and integrating new populations into existing structures. The mention of specific names like Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran would have been significant for the original audience, providing concrete links to the foundational families and clans of Edom.
Key Themes: Genesis 36 contributes to several key themes within the broader book of Genesis and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of God's faithfulness to His promises, even to those outside the direct covenant line of Abraham through Jacob. While Esau did not receive the covenant blessing, God still blessed him with numerous descendants and a land, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4-6). Secondly, it highlights the theme of national identity and distinctiveness, showing how the Edomite nation formed separately from Israel, yet both originated from Isaac. This distinction would become crucial in later biblical history as Edom frequently stood in opposition to Israel. Thirdly, the chapter emphasizes God's sovereign control over history and nations, demonstrating how even the seemingly mundane details of lineage play a role in His grand plan. The meticulous record-keeping of these genealogies serves to authenticate the historical narrative and provide a backdrop for future interactions between Israel and its neighbors, as seen in books like Numbers and Obadiah.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

children (Hebrew, bên', H1121): From the root meaning "to build," this word signifies a son or descendant, emphasizing their role in building or continuing the family name. In this context, it specifically refers to the male offspring of Dishon, who would perpetuate his lineage and contribute to the growing Edomite nation. The term carries a broad sense, encompassing literal and figurative relationships, but here it is clearly about direct progeny.
Dishon (Hebrew, Dîyshôwn', H1787): This is a proper noun, the name of a specific individual, identified as a Horite chief and son of Seir in Genesis 36:21. His name is linked to the Edomite lineage through his daughter Anah, who was the mother of Oholibamah, one of Esau's wives. Here, Dishon is presented as a father, whose sons are listed, further integrating the Horite and Edomite genealogies.
Hemdan (Hebrew, Chemdân', H2533): Derived from a root meaning "pleasant" or "desirable," Hemdan is one of the four sons of Dishon listed in this verse. While the meaning of the name itself doesn't directly inform the narrative, its inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of the genealogical record, preserving the individual identities within the broader family and tribal structure of the emerging Edomite nation.

Verse Breakdown

"And these are the children of Dishon;": This introductory clause identifies the subject of the verse: the offspring of Dishon. The term "children" (Hebrew: bên) here specifically refers to sons, as the subsequent list comprises male names. Dishon is a significant figure in the Horite lineage, whose family intermarried with Esau's descendants, contributing to the formation of the Edomite people. This clause sets the stage for the enumeration of his direct male heirs.
"Hemdan, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.": This is the exhaustive list of Dishon's four sons. Each name represents an individual who would have contributed to the family lines and clans within the Horite-Edomite confederation. The simple listing format is characteristic of biblical genealogies, providing a concise yet comprehensive record. The inclusion of these specific names emphasizes the historical reality and particularity of the Edomite nation's formation, demonstrating the meticulous detail with which the biblical author records the lineage of various peoples.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device employed in Genesis 36:26, and indeed throughout much of Genesis 36, is Genealogy itself. This involves the systematic listing of ancestors and descendants, serving not only as a historical record but also as a theological statement about identity, inheritance, and the unfolding of God's plan through generations. Within this genealogical framework, Listing is prominently used, as seen in the enumeration of Dishon's four sons. This straightforward presentation of names provides clarity and precision to the lineage. Furthermore, the chapter demonstrates Repetition of genealogical formulas (e.g., "these are the generations of...") and the consistent use of "son of" or "children of" phrases, which lends a sense of order and authority to the record. While not a narrative verse, its function within the larger genealogical context is crucial for establishing the Historical Foundation for later interactions between Israel and Edom.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Genesis 36:26, though a seemingly minor detail in a long genealogy, contributes significantly to the biblical understanding of God's sovereign plan and the formation of nations. It underscores the meticulous nature of divine providence, where even the lineages of peoples outside the direct covenant line of Israel are recorded, demonstrating God's oversight of all humanity. The inclusion of Horite names like Dishon and his sons highlights the complex ethnic origins of the Edomite nation, formed through the intermarriage of Esau's descendants with the indigenous inhabitants of Seir. This detail reinforces the idea that God works through diverse peoples and circumstances to bring about His purposes, even as He maintains a distinct covenant relationship with Israel. The existence of Edom, a powerful nation descended from Esau, serves as a testament to God's blessing even upon those who did not inherit the primary covenant promises, fulfilling the earlier blessing given to Esau that he would be a "prosperous" nation (Genesis 27:39-40).

Genesis 10:1-32 - The "Table of Nations" provides a comprehensive genealogy of all peoples descended from Noah, illustrating God's sovereignty over all nations and their distribution across the earth.
Numbers 20:14-21 - This passage recounts Edom's refusal to allow Israel passage through their land, highlighting the future adversarial relationship between the two nations, whose distinct identities are established in Genesis 36.
Deuteronomy 2:1-8 - Moses recounts Israel's journey around Edom, emphasizing God's command not to provoke the Edomites, as He had given Mount Seir to Esau's descendants as their possession.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The detailed genealogies in Scripture, including seemingly obscure verses like Genesis 36:26, serve as profound reminders of God's meticulous nature and His involvement in the grand sweep of human history. They teach us that every individual, every family, and every nation has a place within God's overarching plan, even if their role is not directly tied to the covenant promises given to Israel. This verse encourages us to appreciate the significance of what might appear to be "small" details in our own lives and in the biblical narrative, recognizing that God works through the specific and the particular. It also prompts us to consider our own lineage—not just biologically, but spiritually—and how we fit into God's ongoing story of redemption. Just as these names were important enough for God to preserve, so too are our lives and the lives of those around us significant in His eyes. This passage fosters a deeper appreciation for the historical grounding of our faith and the faithfulness of God across generations and nations.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous detail of genealogies like Genesis 36:26 challenge our modern tendency to overlook or dismiss seemingly "unimportant" details in life or Scripture?
What does the inclusion of non-Israelite genealogies, like that of the Horites and Edomites, teach us about God's sovereignty and His relationship with all nations?
In what ways can understanding our own "lineage"—whether familial, cultural, or spiritual—help us better understand our identity and purpose within God's broader narrative?
How can we apply the principle of God's faithfulness to all peoples, as seen in the blessing of Esau, to our interactions with those from different backgrounds or beliefs today?

FAQ

Why are these genealogies, especially of non-Israelite peoples, so detailed in the Bible?

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible, including those of non-Israelite peoples like the Edomites in Genesis 36, serve multiple crucial purposes. Firstly, they provide a historical and geographical anchor for the narrative, authenticating the biblical account by linking it to real people and places. Secondly, they establish national and tribal identities, explaining the origins and relationships between various groups, which is vital for understanding later interactions (e.g., between Israel and Edom). Thirdly, they demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. Even the lineages of those outside the direct covenant line are part of His grand design, showing how He fulfills promises (like blessing Esau with a numerous progeny, as seen in Genesis 27:39-40) and orchestrates the course of human history. These detailed lists also underscore the meticulous nature of God's plan, where every individual and family plays a part.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Genesis 36:26 directly details the lineage of Edom, a nation distinct from and often opposed to Israel, it indirectly points to Christ by emphasizing the meticulous nature of God's historical plan and the importance of lineage in salvation history. The very concept of genealogy in Scripture ultimately culminates in the lineage of Jesus Christ, demonstrating His rightful claim as the Messiah, the Son of David, and the Son of Abraham (Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38). Even the detailed records of nations outside the covenant line, like Edom, underscore God's sovereign control over all humanity and His preparation of the world for the coming of the Savior. Christ's redemptive work transcends national and ethnic boundaries, as He is the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29), making it possible for people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" to become children of God through faith in Him (Revelation 5:9). Thus, even a verse listing the sons of Dishon, a Horite chief, implicitly reminds us that God's detailed plan encompasses all of history and all peoples, ultimately leading to the universal reign of Christ, who gathers all His children into one family.

Copy as

Commentary on Genesis 36 verses 20–30

20 ¶ These are the sons of Seir the Horite, who inhabited the land; Lotan, and Shobal, and Zibeon, and Anah,

21 And Dishon, and Ezer, and Dishan: these are the dukes of the Horites, the children of Seir in the land of Edom.

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

23 And the children of Shobal were these; Alvan, and Manahath, and Ebal, Shepho, and Onam.

24 And these are the children of Zibeon; both Ajah, and Anah: this was that Anah that found the mules in the wilderness, as he fed the asses of Zibeon his father.

25 And the children of Anah were these; Dishon, and Aholibamah the daughter of Anah.

26 And these are the children of Dishon; Hemdan, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.

27 The children of Ezer are these; Bilhan, and Zaavan, and Akan.

28 The children of Dishan are these; Uz, and Aran.

29 These are the dukes that came of the Horites; duke Lotan, duke Shobal, duke Zibeon, duke Anah,

30 Duke Dishon, duke Ezer, duke Dishan: these are the dukes that came of Hori, among their dukes in the land of Seir.

In the midst of this genealogy of the Edomites here is inserted the genealogy of the Horites, those Canaanites, or Hittites (compare Gen 26:34), that were the natives of Mount Seir. Mention is made of them, Gen 14:6, and of their interest in Mount Seir, before the Edomites took possession of it, Deu 2:12, Deu 2:22. This comes in here, not only to give light to the story, but to be a standing reflection upon the Edomites for intermarrying with them, by which, it is probable, they learned their way, and corrupted themselves. Esau having sold his birthright, and lost his blessing, and entered into alliance with the Hittites, his posterity and the sons of Seir are here reckoned together. Note, Those that treacherously desert God's church are justly numbered with those that were never in it; apostate Edomites stand on the same ground with accursed Horites. Particular notice is taken of one Anah who fed the asses of Zibeon his father (Gen 36:24), and yet is called duke Anah, Gen 36:29. Note, Those that expect to rise high should begin low. An honourable descent should not keep men from an honest employment, nor a mean employment hinder any man's preferment. This Anah was not only industrious in his business, but ingenious too, and successful; for he found mules, or (as some read it) waters, hot-baths, in the wilderness. Those that are diligent in their business sometimes find more advantages than they expected.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 20–30. Public domain.

Copy as

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.

Copy as

Continue studying Genesis 36:26 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.