Genesis 36:27

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

The children {H1121} of Ezer {H687} are these; Bilhan {H1092}, and Zaavan {H2190}, and Akan {H6130}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Etzer were Bilhan, Za'avan and 'Akan.

Berean Standard Bible

These are the sons of Ezer: Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan.

American Standard Version

These are the children of Ezer: Bilhan and Zaavan and Akan.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 36:27 identifies three sons of Ezer the Horite—Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan—as part of the extensive genealogy of Esau (Edom). This verse, situated within a chapter detailing Esau's descendants and the Horite inhabitants of Seir, underscores the Bible's meticulous commitment to historical record-keeping and provides essential context for understanding the diverse nations that interacted with ancient Israel.

### CONTEXT
Genesis chapter 36 provides a detailed and extensive genealogy of Esau, also known as Edom, the brother of Jacob. This chapter meticulously records his wives, his sons, and the chiefs (dukes) that descended from him, along with the Horite inhabitants of the land of Seir, which Esau and his progeny eventually displaced and settled. Verse 27 specifically lists the children of Ezer, who was one of the sons of Seir the Horite, as introduced in [Genesis 36:20](/genesis/36-20 "Ezer, son of Seir the Horite"). This section helps to distinguish the lineage of Esau from that of Jacob, providing a historical backdrop for the nations that would emerge from these patriarchal figures.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 36:27 states, "The children of Ezer [are] these; Bilhan, and Zaavan, and Akan." This verse is a straightforward genealogical entry, listing three sons of Ezer, who was himself a son of Seir the Horite, an original inhabitant of the land of Seir. Such lists underscore the biblical commitment to historical detail, tracing the origins and relationships of various peoples.

The name "Akan" (Hebrew: עָקָן, *'Aqan*) is notable because it appears as "Jaakan" (Hebrew: יַעֲקָן, *Ya'aqan*) in other biblical genealogies, specifically in [1 Chronicles 1:42](/1_chronicles/1-42 "Jaakan in 1 Chronicles"). This variation is a common phenomenon in ancient texts, reflecting minor differences in transcription or pronunciation over time rather than a historical discrepancy. Both names refer to the same individual, a descendant of Ezer the Horite, highlighting the fluidity of ancient orthography while maintaining the integrity of the historical record.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Genealogical Precision:** The Bible's meticulous recording of lineages, even of non-covenant peoples, emphasizes the importance of identity, inheritance, and historical continuity in God's unfolding plan. These detailed lists validate the historical claims and relationships presented throughout Scripture.
* **Historical Foundation:** These genealogies provide essential historical context for understanding the origins and relationships of nations, particularly the future interactions between Israel and Edom, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in the development of all peoples and their place in the broader biblical narrative.
* **Divine Sovereignty Over All Nations:** While the primary focus of Genesis is the covenant line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the inclusion of detailed genealogies for other nations like the Horites and Edomites subtly affirms God's universal sovereignty, acknowledging His governance over all humanity and His intricate plan that encompasses every people group.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a list of names might initially seem peripheral, Genesis 36:27 offers profound insights for contemporary readers. It reminds us that every detail in Scripture, no matter how seemingly minor, holds significance within God's grand narrative, affirming that every individual and lineage plays a role in divine providence. Understanding these historical backgrounds, such as the roots of the Edomites, is crucial for appreciating the complexities of later biblical narratives and the ongoing interactions between nations. Ultimately, these precise records subtly underscore God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving lineages and orchestrating events, even among those outside the direct covenant line, to fulfill His overarching purposes for humanity.

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

Answer: Biblical genealogies serve multiple crucial purposes, including establishing identity, validating tribal connections, confirming inheritance rights, demonstrating historical legitimacy, and tracing the lineage of the Messiah. They are not mere lists but foundational elements that underscore the Bible's historical accuracy and God's faithfulness in preserving specific lines for His redemptive plan.

**Who were the Horites mentioned in Genesis 36?**

Answer: The Horites were an ancient people group who inhabited the land of Seir (later Edom) before Esau and his descendants settled there. Genesis 36 describes them as the original inhabitants whom the Edomites displaced. Their inclusion in Esau's genealogy highlights the intermarriage and cultural integration that occurred as the Edomites established their nation.

**Why do names like "Akan" sometimes vary in biblical texts (e.g., "Jaakan")?**

Answer: Variations in names, such as Akan and Jaakan, are common in ancient texts and reflect different transliterations, pronunciations, or scribal traditions over time. They are generally not contradictions but rather linguistic nuances. In this case, both names refer to the same individual, demonstrating the flexibility of ancient orthography while maintaining the historical integrity of the record.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Genesis 36:27 details the lineage of Ezer the Horite, a people outside the direct covenant line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, it subtly points to Christ by demonstrating God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations and peoples. The meticulous preservation of even non-covenant genealogies underscores God's providential oversight of all humanity, orchestrating the rise and fall of nations according to His divine plan. Ultimately, Christ's redemptive work and future reign are not limited to a single lineage but extend to all peoples, including those represented by the Horites and Edomites. This detailed historical record, by contrasting with the covenant line, highlights the specific path through which the Messiah would come (Jacob's line) while affirming that all nations, in their various historical developments, are subject to the sovereign will of the one true God, who would ultimately send His Son to redeem a people from every tribe and tongue.

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.