Genesis 36:29

These [are] the dukes [that came] of the Horites; duke Lotan, duke Shobal, duke Zibeon, duke Anah,

These are the dukes {H441} that came of the Horites {H2752}; duke {H441} Lotan {H3877}, duke {H441} Shobal {H7732}, duke {H441} Zibeon {H6649}, duke {H441} Anah {H6034},

These were the chieftains descended from the Hori: the chieftains of Lotan, Shoval, Tziv'on, 'Anah,

These are the chiefs of the Horites: Chiefs Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah,

These are the chiefs that came of the Horites: chief Lotan, chief Shobal, chief Zibeon, chief Anah,

Commentary

Genesis 36:29 is part of a detailed genealogical record focusing on the descendants of Esau, who is also known as Edom. This specific verse lists several "dukes" or tribal chiefs of the Horites, an indigenous people who inhabited the land of Seir before the Edomites, descendants of Esau, came to reside there. The names mentioned—Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, and Anah—represent significant leaders within the Horite tribal structure, highlighting their pre-Edomite presence and influence in the region.

Context of Genesis 36:29

Chapter 36 of Genesis provides an extensive account of the generations of Esau, also known as Edom, and his settlement in the mountainous region of Seir. This chapter serves to trace the lineage of a major nation that would become a significant neighbor and often an adversary to Israel. Before Esau's descendants established their dominion, the Horites were the original inhabitants of the land of Seir, as noted earlier in the patriarchal narratives. Genesis 36:20-30 specifically enumerates the Horite families and their leaders, providing a snapshot of their societal structure before the Edomite ascendancy. This detailed list underscores the historical and geographical context of the region prior to the full establishment of the nation of Edom.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Historical Record and Genealogy: The verse emphasizes the biblical commitment to preserving detailed historical and genealogical records, even for peoples seemingly peripheral to Israel's direct lineage. These lists affirm the reality and progression of nations as part of God's overarching plan.
  • Indigenous Peoples and Land Ownership: It acknowledges the existence and leadership of indigenous groups like the Horites, who occupied the land before later inhabitants. This speaks to the complex dynamics of ancient Near Eastern settlement and succession.
  • Sovereignty in History: Even in what appears to be a mere list of names, there is an underlying testimony to God's sovereign hand in the rise and fall of nations and the unfolding of human history, preparing the way for future events and divine purposes.
  • Transition of Power: While listing the Horite dukes, the broader context of Genesis 36 subtly points to the eventual displacement or absorption of the Horites by the Edomites, a process also mentioned in later books like Deuteronomy.

Linguistic Insights

The term "dukes" in the KJV is a translation of the Hebrew word 'alluph (אַלּוּף). This word typically refers to a tribal chief or clan leader, rather than a king in the monarchical sense. Its usage here and throughout Genesis 36 highlights a more decentralized, clan-based form of leadership prevalent among the Horites and early Edomites. This contrasts with the later concept of a unified "king" (melek) and suggests a more communal and familial structure of governance in this period.

Related Scriptures

  • Genesis 14:6: Mentions the Horites in their land of Seir during the time of Abraham, long before Esau's descendants settled there.
  • Genesis 36:8: Confirms Esau's settlement in Mount Seir, setting the stage for the interaction and eventual succession of the Edomites over the Horites.
  • Deuteronomy 2:22: Explicitly states that the Lord destroyed the Horites before the Edomites, allowing them to possess their land, paralleling Israel's conquest of Canaan.

Practical Application

While a seemingly obscure list of names, Genesis 36:29 reminds us that God's plan encompasses all peoples and their histories, not just those directly in the line of Abraham. It encourages us to appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience and the intricate ways God works through various nations and leaders throughout history. This verse also implicitly teaches the transient nature of earthly power and the sovereignty of God over all human affairs, reminding us that even seemingly small details in the biblical record contribute to a larger narrative of divine purpose and providential care. It encourages us to find significance in all of Scripture, recognizing that every detail, however minor it may seem, serves a purpose in revealing God's character and His dealings with humanity.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 36:20 (5 votes)

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

  • Genesis 36:28 (2 votes)

    The children of Dishan [are] these; Uz, and Aran.

  • 1 Chronicles 1:38 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Seir; Lotan, and Shobal, and Zibeon, and Anah, and Dishon, and Ezer, and Dishan.

  • 1 Chronicles 1:41 (2 votes)

    The sons of Anah; Dishon. And the sons of Dishon; Amram, and Eshban, and Ithran, and Cheran.

  • 1 Chronicles 1:42 (2 votes)

    The sons of Ezer; Bilhan, and Zavan, [and] Jakan. The sons of Dishan; Uz, and Aran.