Genesis 36:31

These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites:

Study Bible

These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom
The mention of Edom refers to the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, who settled in the region southeast of Israel. Edom is often associated with Mount Seir and the area south of the Dead Sea. The Edomites were a significant neighboring nation to Israel, and their history is intertwined with that of the Israelites. The kings of Edom are listed to show the established governance and political structure of Edom, which contrasts with the tribal leadership of Israel at the time. This highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Esau that he would become a nation (Genesis 25:23).

before any king reigned over the Israelites:
This phrase indicates a time before the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, which began with Saul, followed by David and Solomon. The reference to Edomite kings reigning before Israel had a king underscores the historical context of Israel's development as a nation. It also reflects the prophetic nature of Israel's future monarchy, as seen in Genesis 17:6, where God promises Abraham that kings will come from him. The mention of Edomite kings serves as a chronological marker, emphasizing the divine timing and plan for Israel's eventual kingship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A region and a people descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. The Edomites were often in conflict with Israel throughout biblical history.

2. Kings of Edom
The passage lists the kings who ruled over Edom before Israel had its own monarchy, highlighting the established governance in Edom.

3. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. At this point in Genesis, they had not yet established a monarchy.

4. Esau
The brother of Jacob, whose descendants became the Edomites. His account is foundational to understanding the relationship between Edom and Israel.

5. Monarchy
The concept of kingship, which is significant in the history of both Edom and Israel, as it marks a transition in governance and leadership.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
The mention of Edomite kings before Israel had a king reminds us that God is sovereign over all nations and their leaders, regardless of their acknowledgment of Him.

The Timing of God's Plans
God's timing for Israel to have a king was different from Edom's. This teaches us to trust in God's perfect timing for His plans in our lives.

The Consequences of Choices
Esau's choices led to the establishment of a nation that often opposed Israel. Our choices can have long-lasting impacts on future generations.

The Importance of Obedience
Israel's eventual request for a king was not in line with God's original plan. This highlights the importance of seeking God's will and being obedient to His guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the early establishment of kings in Edom reflect on the nature of leadership and governance in the ancient world?

2. In what ways does the history of Edom and Israel illustrate the consequences of family dynamics and choices?

3. How can we apply the lesson of God's timing in leadership to our personal lives and decisions today?

4. What are the dangers of desiring something outside of God's timing, as seen in Israel's request for a king?

5. How can we ensure that our leadership, whether in family, work, or community, aligns with biblical principles as outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 8
This chapter describes Israel's request for a king, which marks the beginning of their monarchy. It connects to Genesis 36:31 by showing the transition from judges to kings in Israel.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
These verses provide God's guidelines for a king over Israel, contrasting with the kingship in Edom mentioned in Genesis 36:31.

Obadiah 1
The book of Obadiah prophesies against Edom, reflecting the ongoing tension between Edom and Israel.