Genesis 36:13

These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the grandsons of Esau's wife Basemath.

Study Bible

These are the sons of Reuel:
Reuel is a significant figure as he is a son of Esau, the brother of Jacob. This lineage highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. Reuel's name means "friend of God," which may indicate a positive relationship with the divine, despite Esau's complex history with Jacob. The mention of Reuel's sons emphasizes the continuation of Esau's line, which is important in understanding the broader narrative of the Edomites, who are descendants of Esau.

Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah:
These names are significant as they represent the tribal leaders or chiefs of the Edomites. Nahath means "rest" or "quiet," Zerah means "rising" or "dawning," Shammah means "astonishment" or "desolation," and Mizzah means "fear" or "terror." These names may reflect the characteristics or the destinies of their respective tribes. The listing of these sons also serves to document the genealogical records that were important for maintaining tribal identities and inheritance rights in ancient cultures.

They are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath:
Basemath, also known as Mahalath in some texts, was one of Esau's wives and a daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's other son. This marriage signifies a union between the lines of Abraham through Isaac and Ishmael, which has implications for the relationships between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. The mention of Basemath as their grandmother underscores the interconnectedness of the patriarchal families and highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to make Esau a great nation, despite his separation from the covenant line through Jacob.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuel
Reuel is the son of Esau and Basemath. His name means "friend of God" in Hebrew, indicating a possible positive relationship or standing.

2. Nahath
One of Reuel's sons. The name Nahath can mean "rest" or "quiet," suggesting a peaceful or stable character.

3. Zerah
Another son of Reuel. Zerah means "rising" or "shining," which could imply prominence or significance.

4. Shammah
Also a son of Reuel. Shammah means "astonishment" or "desolation," which might reflect a significant event or characteristic associated with him.

5. Mizzah
The last son of Reuel mentioned. Mizzah means "fear" or "terror," possibly indicating a formidable presence or influence.

Teaching Points

Understanding Lineage and Legacy
The genealogies in the Bible, such as those in Genesis 36, remind us of the importance of family heritage and the impact of our ancestors on our lives. Reflect on how your family history shapes your identity and faith journey.

God's Sovereignty in History
The descendants of Esau, including Reuel and his sons, play a role in God's overarching plan. Recognize that God is sovereign over history and uses all people and nations to fulfill His purposes.

The Consequences of Choices
Esau's choice to marry Canaanite women, including Basemath, had long-term implications for his descendants. Consider how your decisions today can affect future generations and strive to make choices that honor God.

The Complexity of Relationships
The relationship between Jacob and Esau, and their descendants, illustrates the complexity of familial and national relationships. Seek to resolve conflicts and pursue peace in your relationships, trusting God to work through them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the meaning of the names of Reuel's sons enhance your understanding of their potential roles or characteristics in biblical history?

2. In what ways does the prophecy given to Rebekah in Genesis 25:23 manifest in the lives of Esau's descendants, including Reuel and his sons?

3. How can the genealogies in Genesis 36, including the lineage of Reuel, help us appreciate the continuity and faithfulness of God's plan throughout history?

4. Reflect on a decision you have made that has had long-term implications for your family or community. How can you apply biblical wisdom to future decisions?

5. Considering the tensions between the descendants of Jacob and Esau, how can you work towards reconciliation and peace in your own relationships, following biblical principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse speaks of the prophecy given to Rebekah about her twins, Jacob and Esau, and how two nations would come from them. Reuel and his brothers are part of the fulfillment of this prophecy as descendants of Esau, who became the Edomites.

1 Chronicles 1:35-37
This passage lists the descendants of Esau, including Reuel and his sons, showing the continuity of Esau's lineage and its significance in the broader biblical account.

Obadiah 1:1-21
The book of Obadiah prophesies against Edom, the nation descended from Esau. Understanding the lineage of Esau's descendants, including Reuel and his sons, provides context for the historical and prophetic tensions between Edom and Israel.