Topical Encyclopedia Adah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis as one of the wives of Esau, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the elder twin brother of Jacob. Her account is primarily found in the genealogical records of Esau's descendants, which provide insight into the Edomite lineage.Biblical References: Adah is first introduced in Genesis 36:2, where it is written: "Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Oholibamah daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite." This passage highlights her Canaanite heritage, as she is identified as the daughter of Elon the Hittite. The Hittites were one of the prominent groups inhabiting the land of Canaan during the patriarchal period. Marriage to Esau: Esau's marriage to Adah, along with his other Canaanite wives, was a source of grief to his parents, Isaac and Rebekah. Genesis 26:34-35 states: "When Esau was forty years old, he took as wives Judith daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath daughter of Elon the Hittite. And they brought grief to Isaac and Rebekah." Although Adah is not mentioned by name in this particular passage, it is understood that she is the same as Basemath, as genealogical records often reflect variations in names. Descendants: Adah bore Esau a son named Eliphaz, who became a significant figure in the Edomite lineage. Genesis 36:4 records: "And Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau." Eliphaz is noted as the father of several Edomite chiefs, including Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz, as detailed in Genesis 36:11. These descendants played a crucial role in the establishment and leadership of the Edomite nation, which was often in conflict with Israel throughout biblical history. Cultural and Theological Significance: Adah's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the complex relationships between the Israelites and the surrounding Canaanite peoples. Her marriage to Esau, a patriarchal figure, highlights the tensions that arose from intermarriage with the Canaanites, which was generally discouraged among the Israelites due to concerns about religious and cultural assimilation. From a theological perspective, Adah's account is part of the broader narrative of God's covenantal promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. While Esau's descendants, including those through Adah, were not part of the chosen line through which the Messiah would come, they nonetheless played a role in the unfolding history of the region and the fulfillment of God's purposes. Conclusion: Adah, as a wife of Esau and mother of Eliphaz, is a significant figure in the genealogical records of Genesis. Her account reflects the broader themes of family dynamics, cultural interactions, and the unfolding of God's plan in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:10-12These are the names of Esau's sons; Eliphaz the son of Adah the wife of Esau, Reuel the son of Bashemath the wife of Esau. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xxxvi Concerning the Sons of Isaac, Esau and Jacob; of their Nativity ... Chapter iv An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Old Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWho was Korah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Eve in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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