### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma לוֹטָן (Lôwṭân), designated by Strong's `{{H3877}}`, is a proper noun. Its base definition indicates derivation from the root לוֹט (lôṭ), meaning "to wrap, cover, or veil." Thus, the name Lôwṭân itself carries the semantic implication of "covering" or "veiled one." As a personal name, its primary function is identification within a genealogical context, rather than conveying a direct descriptive attribute of the individual in the narrative. However, the etymological root provides a subtle layer of meaning, hinting at concepts of concealment, protection, or perhaps even a veiled destiny, though such interpretations are secondary to its function as a proper appellation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Lôwṭân appears exclusively in the genealogical records of the Horites, who inhabited the land of Seir (later Edom). The occurrences are as follows:
* [[Genesis 36:20]]: Lôwṭân is introduced as the firstborn son of Seir the Horite, alongside his six brothers. This verse establishes him as a foundational figure among the indigenous inhabitants of the land that Esau's descendants would eventually occupy.
* [[Genesis 36:22]]: This verse details Lôwṭân's immediate family, listing his sons, Hori and Hemam (or Homam in `{{H2022}}`), and his sister, Timna. The mention of his children underscores his role in propagating the Horite lineage. Timna's later relationship with Eliphaz, Esau's son, is also noteworthy, as she becomes a concubine and mother of Amalek, linking the Horite and Edomite lines.
* [[Genesis 36:29]]: Lôwṭân is explicitly named as one of the "chiefs" (אַלּוּף, 'allûph) of the Horites, indicating his significant leadership position within their tribal structure. This highlights the established political and social organization of the Horites prior to the full Edomite ascendancy.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:38]]: This verse reiterates the list of Seir's sons, including Lôwṭân, confirming the consistency of the genealogical tradition across the Pentateuch and the Chronicler's history.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]: Similar to Genesis, this verse repeats the names of Lôwṭân's sons, Hori and Homam, and his sister Timna, reinforcing the details of his family line.
Across these occurrences, Lôwṭân consistently appears as a key figure in the Horite lineage, a son of Seir and a chief, whose family members are meticulously recorded. His presence in these genealogies is crucial for understanding the pre-Edomite inhabitants of Seir and the intermingling of peoples in the ancient Near East.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to the root לוֹט (lôṭ) `{{H3874}}`, meaning "to wrap, cover, or veil." This root appears in various forms, often pertaining to physical covering or concealment. While Lôwṭân is a proper name, its etymological root invites contemplation on related concepts such as:
* **Protection/Shelter:** A covering can imply protection or refuge.
* **Concealment/Mystery:** A veil can suggest something hidden or obscure.
* **Identity/Appearance:** What is covered or veiled might relate to how one is perceived or known.
Beyond its linguistic root, Lôwṭân is conceptually related to:
* **Horites:** The indigenous inhabitants of Seir, whose chiefs are listed alongside Lôwṭân (e.g., Shobal, Zibeon, Anah).
* **Edomites:** The descendants of Esau who eventually dispossessed the Horites, though intermarriage and cultural exchange occurred.
* **Genealogy:** The biblical emphasis on lineage, especially in the patriarchal narratives and the books of Chronicles, where tribal and family connections are paramount for establishing identity and historical continuity.
* **Chieftainship:** The term 'allûph (chief) applied to Lôwṭân and others, signifying leadership and authority within their respective clans.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name of an individual outside the direct covenant line of Israel, Lôwṭân's theological significance is primarily found in his inclusion within the broader tapestry of biblical history. His presence in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles underscores several important theological principles:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over All Nations:** The meticulously recorded lineage of the Horites, even those not directly part of Israel's covenant, demonstrates God's comprehensive knowledge and sovereign oversight of all peoples and their histories. He is not merely the God of Israel, but the God of all creation, whose plan encompasses every tribe and nation.
2. **Historical Veracity and Context:** The Bible's attention to details about surrounding peoples, like the Horites, provides historical grounding and context for the narratives of Israel. It shows that the biblical story unfolds within a real, complex geopolitical landscape.
3. **Fulfillment of Prophecy/Divine Promise:** While not directly about Lôwṭân, the detailed record of the Horites and their eventual displacement by the Edomites (descendants of Esau) subtly foreshadows or confirms God's promises regarding the territories and destinies of various nations, including those related to Abraham's lineage through Esau.
4. **Theological Anthropology:** The naming of individuals, even those seemingly peripheral, reflects the biblical emphasis on the individual within a communal and historical framework, highlighting the value of each life within God's overarching plan. The etymological meaning of "covering" for Lôwṭân, while not explicitly expounded in the text, could be seen as a subtle reminder of the layers of divine providence and protection that enshroud human history, even in the lives of those not directly receiving explicit covenant promises.
### Summary
Lôwṭân (`{{H3877}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "covering" or "veiled one," derived from the root לוֹט (lôṭ) `{{H3874}}`. He is identified in the biblical genealogies of [[Genesis 36:20]], [[Genesis 36:22]], [[Genesis 36:29]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:38]], [[1 Chronicles 1:39]] as the firstborn son of Seir the Horite and a prominent chief among the indigenous inhabitants of Seir (later Edom). His family, including his sons Hori and Hemam/Homam, and his sister Timna, are also recorded. Lôwṭân's inclusion in these detailed tribal lists serves to establish the historical and geographical context of the patriarchal narratives, demonstrating God's meticulous record-keeping and His sovereign oversight of all nations. While his name's etymology suggests concepts of covering or concealment, its primary function is to identify a key figure in the Horite lineage, contributing to the rich tapestry of biblical history and affirming the breadth of God's divine plan.
TRV