Genesis 36:40

And these [are] the names of the dukes [that came] of Esau, according to their families, after their places, by their names; duke Timnah, duke Alvah, duke Jetheth,

And these are the names {H8034} of the dukes {H441} that came of Esau {H6215}, according to their families {H4940}, after their places {H4725}, by their names {H8034}; duke {H441} Timnah {H8555}, duke {H441} Alvah {H5933}, duke {H441} Jetheth {H3509},

These are the names of the chieftains descended from 'Esav, according to their clans, places and names: the chieftains of Timna, 'Alvah, Y'tet,

These are the names of Esau’s chiefs, according to their families and regions, by their names: Chiefs Timna, Alvah, Jetheth,

And these are the names of the chiefs that came of Esau, according to their families, after their places, by their names: chief Timna, chief Alvah, chief Jetheth,

Commentary

Genesis 36:40 continues the detailed account of Esau's descendants, specifically listing a series of "dukes" or tribal chiefs. This verse, along with the subsequent ones (verses 41-43), delineates the clan leaders of the Edomite nation, organized by their respective territories.

Context

Chapter 36 of Genesis is dedicated entirely to the generations of Esau, who was also known as Edom. Following the extensive genealogies of Esau's wives, sons, and grandsons (verses 1-19), and then the Horites who inhabited the land before them (verses 20-30), the chapter transitions to the kings who reigned in Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites (verses 31-39). Verses 40-43 then conclude with a final list of these "dukes" or chiefs, emphasizing the established tribal and territorial structure of the Edomite people. This meticulous record serves to distinguish the lineage of Esau from that of Jacob, highlighting the formation of two distinct nations as prophesied in Genesis 25:23.

Key Themes

  • Genealogical Precision: The inclusion of such detailed lists underscores the Bible's historical accuracy and its careful preservation of lineage, which was crucial for establishing national identity and the fulfillment of divine promises.
  • Formation of a Nation: This verse illustrates the early political and social organization of the Edomites, showing them as a distinct and structured people with their own leadership, even before Israel had kings.
  • Divine Sovereignty: Even though Esau was not in the direct covenant line of Abraham through Jacob, God's providence extended to his descendants, allowing them to form a strong nation, fulfilling the blessing given to Esau in Genesis 27:39-40.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "duke" in the KJV is alluph (אַלּוּף). This term specifically refers to a "chief," "leader," or "prince" of a clan or tribe. It is notably used almost exclusively in the Old Testament for the leaders of Edom, distinguishing them from the "princes" (nasi) or "heads" of families in Israel. Its usage here emphasizes a tribal or clan-based leadership structure, often associated with military prowess or territorial control.

Practical Application

While a list of names might seem less immediately applicable, Genesis 36:40 reminds us that God's plan encompasses all peoples and nations, not just the direct line of His covenant. Every detail in Scripture has purpose, even genealogies, which confirm historical realities and the unfolding of God's overarching narrative. It teaches us the importance of identity, lineage, and the meticulous nature of divine record-keeping, assuring us that God is sovereign over the rise and fall of all human societies and that His promises are steadfast.

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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

  • 1 Chronicles 1:51 (4 votes)

    Hadad died also. And the dukes of Edom were; duke Timnah, duke Aliah, duke Jetheth,

  • 1 Chronicles 1:54 (4 votes)

    Duke Magdiel, duke Iram. These [are] the dukes of Edom.

  • Exodus 15:15 (3 votes)

    Then the dukes of Edom shall be amazed; the mighty men of Moab, trembling shall take hold upon them; all the inhabitants of Canaan shall melt away.

  • Genesis 36:31 (2 votes)

    ¶ And these [are] the kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned any king over the children of Israel.

  • Genesis 36:15 (2 votes)

    These [were] dukes of the sons of Esau: the sons of Eliphaz the firstborn [son] of Esau; duke Teman, duke Omar, duke Zepho, duke Kenaz,

  • Genesis 36:16 (2 votes)

    Duke Korah, duke Gatam, [and] duke Amalek: these [are] the dukes [that came] of Eliphaz in the land of Edom; these [were] the sons of Adah.