1 Chronicles 1:39

And the sons of Lotan; Hori, and Homam: and Timna [was] Lotan's sister.

And the sons {H1121} of Lotan {H3877}; Hori {H2753}, and Homam {H1950}: and Timna {H8555} was Lotan's {H3877} sister {H269}.

The sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam; the sister of Lotan was Timna.

The sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam. Timna was Lotan’s sister.

And the sons of Lotan: Hori, and Homam; and Timna was Lotan’s sister.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 1:39 is part of the extensive genealogical records that open the book of 1 Chronicles. This verse specifically details a segment of the descendants of Seir the Horite, whose land was later inhabited by the Edomites, descendants of Esau.

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles begins with nine chapters of genealogies, meticulously tracing lineages from Adam to the post-exilic period. This particular verse, 1 Chronicles 1:39, is found within the section detailing the sons of Esau and their descendants, specifically focusing on the "dukes" or chiefs of Edom, who originated from the Horites in the land of Seir. Lotan is identified as one of these chiefs, as also mentioned in Genesis 36:20-21 and 1 Chronicles 1:38. The inclusion of Timna, Lotan's sister, is notable because she also appears in Genesis 36:12 as a concubine of Eliphaz, Esau's son, and the mother of Amalek, a significant adversary of Israel throughout its history.

Key Themes

  • Historical Record and Lineage: The primary purpose of such verses is to provide a detailed and accurate historical record. These genealogies were crucial for establishing tribal identities, validating land claims, and understanding the complex relationships between various peoples in the ancient Near East.
  • God's Meticulousness: Even seemingly minor details like the names of individuals and their familial connections are recorded, underscoring God's attention to the specific lives and histories of people, even those outside the direct covenant line of Israel.
  • Continuity and Connection: These lists serve to connect various individuals and nations to the broader biblical narrative, illustrating how all of humanity is intertwined and part of a larger divine plan. They highlight the intricate network of relationships that shaped the ancient world.

Linguistic Insights

The names Hori, Homam, and Lotan are typical of the region and period, reflecting the Horite lineage. While there isn't a profound linguistic meaning for these specific names that offers unique theological insight for a general audience, their mere presence emphasizes the Hebrew Bible's commitment to recording specific individuals and their families as part of its historical account. The inclusion of "Timna" as Lotan's sister is a specific detail that helps connect this genealogy with other biblical records, particularly in Genesis, demonstrating the consistency of the biblical narrative.

Significance and Application

While 1 Chronicles 1:39 may seem like a simple list of names, its inclusion in the biblical text carries significant weight. It reinforces the Bible's foundation in historical fact and the importance of lineage in ancient societies. For the original audience, particularly the returning exiles, these genealogies were vital for re-establishing their identity, tribal affiliations, and land rights after the Babylonian captivity, as seen in books like Ezra 2:59-63. For us today, this verse reminds us that God is a God of order and detail. He oversees history, connecting seemingly disparate individuals and events into a grand tapestry that ultimately points to His sovereign plan, culminating in the Messianic line and the fulfillment of His promises through specific people and families.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 36:22 (2 votes)

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

  • Deuteronomy 2:22 (2 votes)

    As he did to the children of Esau, which dwelt in Seir, when he destroyed the Horims from before them; and they succeeded them, and dwelt in their stead even unto this day:

  • Deuteronomy 2:12 (2 votes)

    The Horims also dwelt in Seir beforetime; but the children of Esau succeeded them, when they had destroyed them from before them, and dwelt in their stead; as Israel did unto the land of his possession, which the LORD gave unto them.