Genesis 36:42

KJV

Duke Kenaz, duke Teman, duke Mibzar,

KJV (with Strong's)

Duke {H441} Kenaz {H7073}, duke {H441} Teman {H8487}, duke {H441} Mibzar {H4014},

Complete Jewish Bible

Kenaz, Teman, Mivtzar,

Berean Standard Bible

Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar,

American Standard Version

chief Kenaz, chief Teman, chief Mibzar,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 36:42 continues the detailed enumeration of Edomite "dukes," specifically naming Kenaz, Teman, and Mibzar. This verse is part of a comprehensive genealogical record of Esau's descendants, meticulously documenting the tribal leaders and the established structure of the nation of Edom. It underscores the fulfillment of God's promise that Esau would become a great nation, highlighting the distinct identity and organized leadership of a people whose history would frequently intersect, often contentiously, with that of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis chapter 36 serves as a pivotal "toledot" (generations) section, specifically "the generations of Esau, who is Edom," following the narrative of Jacob's family. Positioned between the detailed accounts of Jacob's family and the Joseph narrative, this chapter provides a comprehensive and somewhat unexpected digression into Esau's lineage. Its inclusion emphasizes the fulfillment of the divine prophecy given to Rebekah that [two nations would come from her womb](/genesis/25-23 "Genesis 25:23 - Prophecy of Two Nations"), establishing the distinct identity and structured society of the Edomites as a parallel, though separate, nation to Israel. Verses [36:40-43](/genesis/36-40-43 "Genesis 36:40-43 - The Dukes of Edom") specifically list the "dukes according to their families, after their places, by their names," indicating a well-organized tribal and geographical structure, with [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") contributing to this exhaustive list of prominent Edomite leaders.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Edomites, descendants of Esau, settled in the mountainous region of Seir, south and east of the Dead Sea, a territory previously inhabited by the Horites ([Genesis 36:20-21](/genesis/36-20-21 "Genesis 36:20-21 - The Horites of Seir")). Their society, as depicted in this chapter, evolved from nomadic clans into a more organized nation, complete with a succession of kings and, as seen here, numerous "dukes" or tribal chiefs. The term "duke" (Hebrew: *'alluph*) in this context refers not to a European feudal title but to a significant tribal chieftain, leader, aor head of a thousand, reflecting a system of decentralized leadership common among ancient Near Eastern tribal confederations before the rise of centralized monarchies. This detailed record highlights the establishment of a powerful and distinct nation, providing essential background for understanding the future geopolitical landscape and the often-antagonistic relationship between Israel and Edom, as seen in later biblical accounts like [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage to Israel").

* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Faithfulness and Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as God's word concerning Esau's descendants becoming a great nation is visibly realized through the numerous "dukes" and kings listed. Another key theme is the **Formation of Nations and Distinct Identities**, where the meticulous genealogy of Edom underscores the separate, yet divinely ordained, development of nations alongside Israel. This chapter also implicitly touches on **Divine Sovereignty Over All Peoples**, demonstrating that God's plan encompasses not only His chosen covenant people but also the rise and organization of other nations. Finally, the detailed record serves as a **Historical Foundation for Future Interactions**, providing the necessary context for understanding the complex relationships and conflicts that would later arise between Israel and its neighbors, particularly Edom, throughout biblical history, from the Exodus period to the prophetic books.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") continues the list of Edomite leaders, specifying "Duke Kenaz, duke Teman, duke Mibzar." This verse, like those immediately preceding and following it, serves to complete the enumeration of the "dukes that came of Esau, according to their families, after their places, by their names" ([Genesis 36:40](/genesis/36-40 "Genesis 36:40 - Dukes of Esau")).

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Duke (Hebrew, _ʼallûwph'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "familiar" or "tame," signifies a chieftain, leader, or head of a clan or tribe. It denotes a prominent figure, often with administrative or military authority, who is "notable" or "chief." The consistent use of *'allûwph* throughout [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau") underscores the established and organized tribal structure of the Edomites, indicating a developed society with recognized leadership, distinct from the later concept of a king.
* **Kenaz (Hebrew, _Qᵉnaz'_):** Likely from an unused root meaning "to hunt," Kenaz is presented here as an Edomite duke. The name itself suggests a "hunter," perhaps indicating a tribal characteristic or a prominent individual known for such prowess. Kenaz is also a name found among Israelites (e.g., [Joshua 15:17](/joshua/15-17 "Joshua 15:17 - Othniel Son of Kenaz")), highlighting a shared onomastic tradition in the region, though here it clearly refers to an Edomite leader.
* **Teman (Hebrew, _Têymân'_):** This name is identical to the Hebrew word for "south" or "south country." Teman was a significant region in Edom and also the name of a prominent Edomite clan and its eponymous ancestor (grandson of Esau, [Genesis 36:11](/genesis/36-11 "Genesis 36:11 - Sons of Eliphaz")). Its inclusion as a duke here likely refers to a leader from or associated with this important southern Edomite territory, reinforcing the geographical organization of the Edomite dukedoms.
* **Mibzar (Hebrew, _Mibtsâr'_):** This name is identical to the Hebrew word for "fortress" or "stronghold." Mibzar is listed as an Idumaean (Edomite) duke. The name suggests a connection to fortified places or perhaps a leader known for strength and defense. Its appearance here further details the diverse leadership within the Edomite nation, each duke potentially representing a particular region or lineage known for a specific characteristic.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Duke Kenaz":** This phrase introduces one of the tribal chieftains or leaders of the Edomite nation. Kenaz, as a personal name, denotes a specific lineage or geographical region within Edom, indicating a distinct administrative or military head within the broader confederation of Esau's descendants.
* **"duke Teman":** This refers to another prominent Edomite leader, likely associated with the significant southern region of Teman, a major clan and territory within Edom. The repetition of "duke" emphasizes the consistent leadership structure across different Edomite factions.
* **"duke Mibzar":** This names the third chieftain in this particular verse, whose name, meaning "fortress," suggests a leader perhaps from a fortified area or one known for military strength. The cumulative listing of these dukes completes the enumeration of Edom's established tribal heads, demonstrating the nation's organized and developed societal structure.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") and its surrounding context is **Genealogy** (specifically a list of tribal leaders). This meticulous listing serves not merely as a dry record but as a narrative technique to underscore the fulfillment of divine prophecy regarding Esau's descendants becoming a great nation. The **Repetition** of "duke" (Hebrew: *'alluph*) preceding each name emphasizes the established nature of their leadership and the organized structure of Edomite society. This **Enumeration** provides a comprehensive and authoritative account, lending credibility to the biblical narrative's historical claims and demonstrating God's sovereign hand in the formation of all nations. Furthermore, the inclusion of these names, though seemingly minor, functions as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for future interactions and conflicts between the Edomites and the Israelites, as the distinct identities and leadership structures of both nations are clearly delineated.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The detailed enumeration of Edomite dukes in [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") serves as a profound testament to God's meticulous sovereignty and faithfulness, not only to His covenant people, Israel, but to all of creation and every nation. It demonstrates that divine providence extends beyond the immediate focus of the Abrahamic covenant, encompassing the rise and organization of other peoples as well. This seemingly mundane list reinforces the biblical principle that God is the orchestrator of history, meticulously overseeing the development of human societies and fulfilling His word concerning them. The existence of these distinct, organized nations, each with its own leadership, highlights God's design for diversity within humanity, all operating within the grand tapestry of His overarching redemptive plan.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Nations Divided") - Illustrates God's ordering of all nations from a single source.
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of Nations") - Declares God's sovereignty over the plans and purposes of nations.
* [Isaiah 40:15](/isaiah/40-15 "Isaiah 40:15 - Nations as a Drop in a Bucket") - Emphasizes the nations' insignificance before God's immense power and majesty.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a list of ancient names and titles like those in [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") might initially seem remote from contemporary life, it offers profound insights for the discerning reader. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is intricately involved in the details of all history, not just the parts that directly pertain to His covenant people. His sovereignty extends to the rise and organization of every nation, demonstrating His meticulous care and purposeful design in the unfolding of human events. For us today, this encourages a broader perspective on God's work in the world, reminding us that He is active in cultures and societies far beyond our immediate sphere. It also underscores the importance of identity and heritage, not as a source of prideful exclusion, but as a recognition of God's unique shaping of individuals, families, and nations within His grand narrative. Understanding these historical roots helps us appreciate the complex tapestry of God's redemptive plan, which encompasses all peoples and culminates in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of genealogies like this one challenge or confirm your understanding of God's sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel?**
* **In what ways might understanding the distinct identity and leadership of nations like Edom help us better understand the complexities of international relations or cultural differences today?**
* **What does it mean for our faith to know that God pays attention to the "dukes" and details of every people group, even those seemingly outside the direct covenant line?**

### FAQ
**What does 'duke' signify in Genesis 36?**

Answer: The term 'duke' in the King James Version for [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") translates the Hebrew word *'alluph* (אלוּף, H441). This term does not carry the European feudal connotations of a duke, but rather signifies a tribal "chief," "leader," aor head of a thousand. It denotes a significant leader within a clan or tribe, often with military or administrative authority, emphasizing the established and organized tribal structure of the Edomites. Its use highlights the development of Esau's descendants into a structured society with recognized leadership, fulfilling the prophecy of [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "Genesis 25:23 - Prophecy of Two Nations").

**Why are such detailed genealogies of Esau included in the Bible?**

Answer: Detailed genealogies of Esau, including the list of dukes in [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"), serve several crucial purposes. They demonstrate the fulfillment of God's prophecy that [two nations would come from Rebekah's womb](/genesis/25-23 "Genesis 25:23 - Prophecy of Two Nations"), establishing Edom as a distinct and powerful nation. They also provide essential historical and geopolitical context for understanding later interactions and conflicts between Israel and Edom throughout the Old Testament, such as Edom's refusal to allow Israel passage during the Exodus ([Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage")). Furthermore, these lists underscore God's sovereignty over all of human history, illustrating that His divine plan encompasses the rise and organization of all peoples, not just His chosen covenant nation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 36:42](/genesis/36-42 "Genesis 36:42 - Duke Kenaz, Duke Teman, Duke Mibzar") primarily details the lineage and leadership of a nation distinct from Israel, it contributes to the broader biblical narrative that ultimately points to Christ. The meticulous recording of all nations' origins, even those outside the direct line of promise, speaks to God's universal sovereignty over all humanity. Just as the "dukes" of Edom ruled over their respective clans, Christ is the ultimate "Duke" and King, not merely over one nation, but over all nations and all creation ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). The inclusion of Edom's lineage, a people often in opposition to Israel, subtly foreshadows the expansive nature of God's redemptive plan, which would eventually embrace Gentiles from every tribe and nation into the family of God through Christ ([Ephesians 2:11-16](/ephesians/2-11-16 "Ephesians 2:11-16 - One New Humanity in Christ")). The genealogical precision, even for Esau's descendants, emphasizes that God's plan unfolds within real history, culminating in the incarnate Son, Jesus, through whom all the families of the earth are blessed ([Galatians 3:8](/galatians/3-8 "Galatians 3:8 - The Gospel Preached to Abraham")). Thus, these ancient lists, though seemingly remote, contribute to the grand narrative of God's universal dominion and His redemptive purpose, which finds its glorious fulfillment in the Person and work of Jesus Christ, the true Head and Lord of all.

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.