### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Lôwṭân**, represented by `{{H3877}}`, is the name of an Idumaean and means **covering**. It appears **7 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical listings that establish early lineages in the land of Seir.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3877}}` is presented as a key figure in the lineage of the Horites{H2752}. He is identified as one of the sons{H1121} of Seir{H8165}, the original inhabitants{H3427} of the land{H776} ([[Genesis 36:20]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:38]]). His status is further defined as a chieftain, or **duke**{H441}, among his people [[Genesis 36:29]]. The scriptures also record his immediate family, naming his children{H1121} as Hori{H2753} and Hemam{H1967}, and his sister{H269} as Timna{H8555} [[Genesis 36:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of Lotan's identity and status:
* `{{H2752}}` **Chôrîy** (Horite): Defined as a "cave-dweller or troglodyte," this term identifies the people group to which Lotan belonged, the aboriginal Idumaean inhabitants of Seir [[Genesis 36:20]].
* `{{H8165}}` **Sêʻîyr** (Seir): Meaning "rough," this is the name of Lotan's father and also the mountain region that the Horites inhabited [[Genesis 36:20]].
* `{{H441}}` **ʼallûwph** (duke): This word, meaning "chieftain," is used to describe Lotan's position of leadership among the Horite dukes who came from Seir [[Genesis 36:29]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): As a "builder of the family name," this word is crucial for establishing Lotan's place as a direct descendant of Seir and the progenitor of his own lineage ([[Genesis 36:20]], [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]).
### Theological Significance
The genealogical placement of `{{H3877}}` carries historical significance by documenting the leadership and succession of peoples in the land of Edom.
* **Pre-Edomite Chieftainship:** Lotan is listed as a **duke**{H441} of the Horites{H2752}, establishing the leadership structure of the people who inhabited{H3427} the land{H776} of Seir{H8165} before the children of Esau ([[Genesis 36:29]]; [[Deuteronomy 2:12]]).
* **Genealogical Link:** The family of Lotan provides a direct connection between the Horites and the subsequent Edomites. His sister{H269}, Timna{H8555}, became a concubine to Eliphaz, Esau's son{H1121} [[Genesis 36:12]].
* **Territorial History:** The record of Lotan as a son{H1121} of Seir{H8165} and a Horite{H2752} duke{H441} helps to map the lineage and governance within the land of Seir [[Genesis 36:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3877}}` **Lôwṭân** is not just a personal name but a genealogical marker for an ancient Idumaean lineage. Scripture uses his identity as a son{H1121} of Seir{H8165} and a **duke**{H441} of the Horites{H2752} to chronicle the original inhabitants and rulers of the land of Seir. His family connections illustrate the historical context of the region and the people who lived there.
TRV