Topical Encyclopedia Alian is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is identified as a descendant of Seir the Horite, a group of people who inhabited the land of Edom before the descendants of Esau. Alian is listed among the chiefs of the Horites, indicating a position of leadership and prominence within his community.Biblical References: Alian is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 1:40, where the genealogy of the Horites is recorded. The Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Shobal: Alian, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam." This passage places Alian within the broader context of the descendants of Seir, who were integrated into the Edomite lineage through intermarriage and conquest. Genealogical Context: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the historical and familial connections between various peoples and tribes in the ancient Near East. Alian's inclusion in these records highlights the interconnectedness of the Horites and the Edomites. The Horites, as descendants of Seir, were eventually absorbed into the Edomite nation, which was founded by Esau, the brother of Jacob. Cultural and Historical Significance: The mention of Alian and other Horite chiefs underscores the complex social and political landscape of the region during the patriarchal period. The Horites, as indigenous inhabitants of Edom, played a significant role in the early history of the area. Their integration into the Edomite society reflects the broader theme of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through various peoples and nations. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the genealogies, including the mention of Alian, demonstrate God's sovereignty over history and His ability to work through diverse groups to accomplish His purposes. The inclusion of non-Israelite figures like Alian in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the universal scope of God's plan and His concern for all nations. Conclusion: While Alian is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical text, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles provides valuable insight into the historical and cultural context of the ancient Near East. His role as a chief among the Horites highlights the interconnectedness of various peoples and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout history. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary AlianSmith's Bible Dictionary Alian[ALVAN] International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ALIANa-li'-an (`alyan): A descendant of Esau, and son of Shobal (1 Chronicles 1:40). In the corresponding earlier genealogy (Genesis 36:23) the same person is given as Alvan (`alwan), the change of the third consonant being a simple one, common to Hebrew, occurring similarly in Aliah (which see). Alian is not to be identified with Aliah, since the groups of names in which these occur are quite different, and the context in each case is not the same. Strong's Hebrew 5935. Alvan -- an Edomite... 5934, 5935. Alvan or Alyan. 5936 . an Edomite. Transliteration: Alvan or Alyan Phonetic Spelling: (al-vawn') Short Definition: Alian. ... Alian, Alvan. ... /hebrew/5935.htm - 6k Thesaurus Alian (1 Occurrence)...ALIAN. a-li'-an (`alyan): A descendant of Esau, and son of Shobal (1 Chronicles 1:40). ... Multi-Version Concordance Alian (1 Occurrence). ... /a/alian.htm - 7k Al'ian (1 Occurrence) Alvan (2 Occurrences) Zibeon (7 Occurrences) Zideon (1 Occurrence) Zib'eon (7 Occurrences) Onam (4 Occurrences) Manahath (3 Occurrences) Man'ahath (2 Occurrences) Aliah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Alian (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 1:40 Subtopics Related Terms |
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