Genesis 36:15-16 These were the chiefs among Esau’s descendants: The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, Korah, a Gatam and Amalek. These were the chiefs descended from Eliphaz in Edom; they were grandsons of Adah.
A quick google search turns up that Esau’s genealogy is presented here “to establish a historical and genealogical connection” between Esau and Israel. And that makes perfect sense to me as when I introduce my boys to a family member they’ve not met before, I establish the connection between that person and us so they understand how we are related.
Genesis 36:17 The sons of Esau’s son Reuel: Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah and Mizzah. These were the chiefs descended from Reuel in Edom; they were grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath.
Knowing that connection helps to understand the relationship. Sometimes it raises questions: “Well, why doesn’t…?”. Sometimes it provides answers: “Oh, now I understand why….” But I’m not going to lie…my teflon brain absolutely kicks in when I see this long list, my eyes get a bit glassy, and it’s hard for me to focus. Help me, Jesus.
Genesis 36:18 The sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah: Chiefs Jeush, Jalam and Korah. These were the chiefs descended from Esau’s wife Oholibamah daughter of Anah.
Precious Savior, Thank You for family, for connections, for relationships. Thank You for the understanding that can come from knowing how these connections fit. Forgive me for my teflon brain when I see lengthy genealogy. Help me to see what You have for me in this scripture. Amen.
Genesis 36:19 These were the sons of Esau (that is, Edom), and these were their chiefs.
Have a blessed day.