Genesis 36:5

and Oholibamah gave birth to Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These were the sons of Esau, who were born to him in the land of Canaan.

Study Bible

and Oholibamah gave birth to Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.
Oholibamah was one of Esau's wives, a Hittite, which highlights Esau's marriages outside the covenant family, contrasting with Jacob's lineage. The names Jeush, Jalam, and Korah are significant as they represent the continuation of Esau's line, which would become the Edomites. These names are not as prominent in biblical narratives as Jacob's descendants, indicating the lesser focus on Esau's line in the biblical story. The mention of these sons underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, as Esau's descendants became a distinct nation.

These were the sons of Esau,
Esau, also known as Edom, is a central figure in the narrative of Genesis. His descendants, the Edomites, play a significant role in the history of Israel, often as adversaries. The mention of his sons here serves to establish the genealogical record of Esau's lineage, which is important for understanding the broader narrative of the Old Testament, where the Edomites frequently interact with the Israelites. This genealogy also highlights the theme of God's sovereignty in the unfolding of history, as Esau's line, though not the chosen line of promise, is still significant in the biblical narrative.

who were born to him in the land of Canaan.
The land of Canaan is a significant geographical and theological setting in the Bible. It is the land promised to Abraham and his descendants, and its mention here situates Esau's family within the broader context of God's promises. Although Esau's descendants would eventually settle in the region of Seir, their birth in Canaan ties them to the land of promise, albeit temporarily. This phrase also serves to contrast Esau's temporary presence in Canaan with Jacob's eventual inheritance of the land, emphasizing the theme of divine election and promise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Oholibamah
One of Esau's wives, a Hittite woman, who bore him three sons. Her name means "tent of the high place," indicating a possible connection to high places of worship.

2. Jeush
The first son of Esau and Oholibamah. His name means "he will help" or "he will deliver."

3. Jalam
The second son of Esau and Oholibamah. His name means "concealed" or "hidden."

4. Korah
The third son of Esau and Oholibamah. His name means "bald" or "ice."

5. Esau
The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, twin brother of Jacob, and father of the Edomites. Known for selling his birthright to Jacob.

6. Canaan
The land where Esau's sons were born, a region significant in biblical history as the Promised Land for the descendants of Abraham.

Teaching Points

Heritage and Legacy
Esau's lineage through Oholibamah reminds us of the importance of family heritage and the impact of our choices on future generations.

Cultural and Spiritual Influence
Marrying outside of the covenant community, as Esau did, can introduce cultural and spiritual challenges, emphasizing the need for discernment in relationships.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
Despite Esau's choices, God still had a plan for his descendants, illustrating God's sovereignty and grace in using imperfect people for His purposes.

Identity and Names
The meanings of the names Jeush, Jalam, and Korah can inspire reflection on how names and identity play a role in our spiritual journey.

Living in the Land of Canaan
Esau's sons being born in Canaan foreshadows the complex relationship between the Israelites and the inhabitants of the land, encouraging us to consider how we live out our faith in diverse environments.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esau's choice of wives reflect his spiritual priorities, and what can we learn from this about making decisions that honor God?

2. In what ways do the names of Esau's sons (Jeush, Jalam, and Korah) reflect their potential roles or characteristics, and how can understanding the meaning of names deepen our understanding of biblical accounts?

3. How does the birth of Esau's sons in Canaan relate to the broader biblical theme of God's promises to Abraham's descendants, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness?

4. Considering Esau's lineage and its impact on biblical history, how can we ensure that our own legacy aligns with God's purposes?

5. Reflect on the cultural and spiritual challenges that arise from Esau's marriages. How can we apply the lessons from his life to our own relationships and community interactions today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23-34
This passage provides background on Esau's relationship with Jacob, including the selling of his birthright, which sets the stage for the future dynamics between their descendants.

Genesis 28:8-9
Esau's marriages to Canaanite women, including Oholibamah, are mentioned, highlighting the cultural and spiritual tensions within his family.

Deuteronomy 2:4-5
God instructs the Israelites not to contend with the Edomites (descendants of Esau) as they pass through their territory, showing the continued significance of Esau's lineage.