Zaavan is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is identified as one of the sons of Ezer, who was a descendant of Seir the Horite. The Horites were an ancient people who inhabited the region of Seir before the Edomites. Zaavan's lineage is briefly noted in the genealogical records that trace the ancestry and tribal affiliations of the inhabitants of Edom.

Biblical References:

Zaavan is mentioned in the following biblical passage:

· Genesis 36:27 : "These are the sons of Ezer: Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan."

This verse is part of the genealogical record in Genesis 36, which details the descendants of Esau, also known as Edom. The chapter provides a comprehensive list of the chiefs and clans that descended from Esau, highlighting the integration and influence of the Horites within the Edomite lineage.

· 1 Chronicles 1:42 : "The sons of Ezer: Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan."

This passage in 1 Chronicles reiterates the genealogy found in Genesis, underscoring the importance of these records in understanding the historical and familial context of the tribes and nations surrounding Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Zaavan's mention in the genealogies serves to establish the connections between the Horites and the Edomites. The Horites were known as cave dwellers, and their integration into the Edomite society is indicative of the complex relationships and intermarriages among the ancient Near Eastern peoples. The genealogies in Genesis and 1 Chronicles are crucial for tracing the lineage of various tribes and understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the nations that would arise from their descendants.

Theological Significance:

While Zaavan himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and His orchestration of history. The genealogies demonstrate the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, as they trace the development of nations and peoples that play significant roles in the biblical account. The mention of Zaavan and his brothers highlights the interconnectedness of the peoples in the region and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history.

Conclusion:

Zaavan, as a son of Ezer, represents a link in the chain of genealogical records that provide insight into the ancient world and the relationships between different tribes and nations. His mention in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the broader understanding of the historical and theological context of the Scriptures.Genesis 36:27
The children of Ezer are these; Bilhan, and Zaavan, and Akan.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:42
The sons of Ezer; Bilhan, and Zavan, and Jakan. The sons of Dishan; Uz, and Aran.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxvi
... But the fifth name "Korah," identical with the last son of Oholibamah as far as
name is ... And these are the children of Ezer: Bilhan, and Zaavan, and Akan. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

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