Topical Encyclopedia Aholibamah is a significant yet often overlooked figure in the Old Testament, known primarily as one of the wives of Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebekah. Her account is intertwined with the complex family dynamics and genealogical records of the Edomites, descendants of Esau.Biblical References and Genealogy Aholibamah is first mentioned in Genesis 36, which provides a detailed genealogy of Esau's descendants. According to Genesis 36:2, Esau took Aholibamah as a wife from the Canaanites: "Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah daughter of Elon the Hittite, Oholibamah daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite." The Berean Standard Bible uses the name "Oholibamah," which is an alternative transliteration of the Hebrew name. Aholibamah is further identified in Genesis 36:25 as the daughter of Anah and the granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite, indicating her Canaanite heritage. This connection to the Canaanites is significant, as it highlights Esau's departure from the marital preferences of his parents, Isaac and Rebekah, who were concerned about the influence of Canaanite culture and religion (Genesis 26:34-35). Role and Descendants Aholibamah bore Esau three sons: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah, as recorded in Genesis 36:5: "And Oholibamah bore Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These are the sons of Esau, who were born to him in the land of Canaan." These sons became chiefs among the Edomites, as detailed in Genesis 36:15-18, where the chiefs of Esau's descendants are listed. Aholibamah's sons played a role in the establishment and leadership of the Edomite tribes, which were significant in the region's history. Cultural and Theological Implications Aholibamah's marriage to Esau and her Canaanite background reflect the broader theme of intermarriage between the descendants of Abraham and the surrounding peoples. This theme is recurrent in the patriarchal narratives and often serves as a point of tension, as seen in the lives of Isaac and Rebekah, who were distressed by Esau's choice of wives (Genesis 26:34-35). From a theological perspective, Aholibamah's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the complexity of God's providence and the unfolding of His promises. Despite Esau's marriages outside the Abrahamic line, God continued to work through the family of Isaac, ultimately fulfilling His covenant through Jacob, Esau's brother. Historical Context The historical context of Aholibamah's life is set in the patriarchal period, a time characterized by nomadic lifestyles, tribal affiliations, and familial alliances. The genealogies in Genesis 36 provide insight into the social and political structures of the time, with Aholibamah's descendants contributing to the formation of the Edomite nation. In summary, Aholibamah's role as Esau's wife and the mother of his children places her within the broader narrative of the patriarchs, highlighting the intricate relationships and divine purposes at work in the early history of the Israelites and their neighbors. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 36:3,14,25And Bashemath Ishmael's daughter, sister of Nebajoth. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 173. Oholibamah -- "tent of the high place," wife of Esau, also an ...... Aholibamah. From 'ohel and bamah; tent of (the) height; Oholibamah, a wife of Esau -- Aholibamah. see HEBREW 'ohel. see HEBREW bamah. 172, 173. ... /hebrew/173.htm - 6k Library Concerning the Sons of Isaac, Esau and Jacob; of their Nativity ... Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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