Genesis 14:6

And the Horites in their mount Seir, unto Elparan, which [is] by the wilderness.

And the Horites {H2752} in their mount {H2042} Seir {H8165}, unto Elparan {H364}, which is by {H5921} the wilderness {H4057}.

and the Hori at Se'ir, their mountain, all the way to Eil-Pa'ran by the desert.

and the Horites in the area of Mount Seir, as far as El-paran, which is near the desert.

and the Horites in their mount Seir, unto El-paran, which is by the wilderness.

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of a broader historical account in Genesis 14, detailing the military campaign of Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies against rebellious city-states in the Jordan Valley. Before confronting the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, these invading forces first swept through various territories to the south and east, subjugating the indigenous populations. Genesis 14:6 specifically identifies the Horites, a people group inhabiting Mount Seir, as one of those conquered. This passage provides a glimpse into the ancient geopolitical landscape of the region prior to Israel's emergence, highlighting the power dynamics of the era.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Historical Record: Genesis 14 stands out for its detailed geographical and historical information, providing a credible snapshot of the ancient Near East. This verse, with its specific mention of the Horites and their territory, reinforces the Bible's grounding in actual events and its attention to specific details.
  • Territorial Significance: The mention of "Mount Seir" is crucial. This region later becomes the homeland of Esau's descendants, the Edomites (Genesis 36:8). The Horites were the original inhabitants before being dispossessed by the Edomites, as recounted in Deuteronomy 2:12. This detail foreshadows future territorial shifts and the establishment of nations.
  • Divine Providence (Implicit): Though not explicitly stated in this verse, the movements of these kings ultimately set the stage for Abram's involvement in rescuing Lot, leading to his encounter with Melchizedek. Even seemingly secular historical events can serve God's larger purposes in the unfolding narrative of redemption.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Horites" (Hebrew: Horim) is often associated with "cave-dwellers," derived from the Hebrew word αΈ₯or meaning "cave" or "hole." This fits well with their dwelling in the mountainous region of Mount Seir, which is known for its rugged terrain and natural caves. "Elparan" is generally identified with Elath, a significant ancient port city at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea), suggesting the extent of the invading forces' southward advance into the wilderness.

Geographical Significance

The description "Mount Seir, unto Elparan, which is by the wilderness" maps out a significant portion of the invaders' route. Mount Seir is the mountainous area south of the Dead Sea, stretching down towards the Gulf of Aqaba. Elparan (or Elath) is located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, indicating the southern limit of the Horite territory or the extent of the campaign. This demonstrates the wide reach and strategic planning of Chedorlaomer's coalition as they subdued various peoples across the region.

Practical Application

While a historical detail, this verse reminds us that God's grand narrative unfolds within real-world history, with real people and places. It underscores the Bible's grounding in actual events, inviting us to trust its broader message of redemption and divine purpose. Even seemingly minor details contribute to the rich tapestry of God's interaction with humanity, setting the stage for future events and highlighting the sovereignty of God over nations and territories, even those far removed from Abram's immediate concerns. It encourages us to see divine purpose even in the complexities of historical events.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 2:22 (6 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 (5 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.

  • Genesis 21:21 (5 votes)

    And he dwelt in the wilderness of Paran: and his mother took him a wife out of the land of Egypt.

  • Numbers 13:3 (3 votes)

    And Moses by the commandment of the LORD sent them from the wilderness of Paran: all those men [were] heads of the children of Israel.

  • Numbers 12:16 (3 votes)

    And afterward the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the wilderness of Paran.

  • Genesis 36:8 (2 votes)

    Thus dwelt Esau in mount Seir: Esau [is] Edom.

  • Genesis 36:20 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ These [are] the sons of Seir the Horite, who inhabited the land; Lotan, and Shobal, and Zibeon, and Anah,