Zibeon is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the descendants of Seir the Horite. He is identified as a Hivite, one of the Canaanite tribes that inhabited the land prior to the Israelite conquest. The name "Zibeon" is thought to mean "hyena" or "colored," reflecting the ancient practice of naming individuals based on characteristics or notable traits.

Genealogical Context

Zibeon is introduced in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles. In Genesis 36:2, we learn that Zibeon is the father of Anah, who is noted for discovering the hot springs in the wilderness while pasturing the donkeys of his father Zibeon. This passage highlights the familial connections and the significance of Zibeon's lineage:

"Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Oholibamah daughter of Anah, granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite." (Genesis 36:2)

Further genealogical details are provided in Genesis 36:20-24, where Zibeon is listed among the sons of Seir the Horite, establishing his place within the broader context of the Horite clans:

"These are the sons of Seir the Horite, the inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. These are the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir, in the land of Edom. The sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam. Timna was Lotan’s sister. These are the sons of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam. These are the sons of Zibeon: Aiah and Anah. (This is the Anah who discovered the hot springs in the wilderness while he was pasturing the donkeys of his father Zibeon.)" (Genesis 36:20-24)

Cultural and Historical Significance

Zibeon's identification as a Hivite places him within the context of the Canaanite tribes that were present in the land of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. The Hivites, along with other Canaanite groups, were often in conflict with the Israelites, as the latter sought to establish themselves in the Promised Land. The genealogical records in Genesis serve to document the complex relationships and interactions between these groups.

The mention of Zibeon's son Anah discovering hot springs is a unique detail that underscores the historical and geographical knowledge of the time. Such discoveries would have been significant for the survival and prosperity of the people living in the arid regions of the ancient Near East.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Zibeon and his descendants in the biblical narrative highlights the comprehensive nature of God's plan and the intricate tapestry of human history as recorded in Scripture. The genealogies serve as a reminder of the diverse peoples and cultures that God used to fulfill His purposes, even those outside the direct line of the Israelite patriarchs.

Zibeon's account, though brief, is a testament to the interconnectedness of the biblical world and the unfolding of God's redemptive history through various peoples and nations.Genesis 36:2,14
Esau took his wives of the daughters of Canaan; Adah the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Aholibamah the daughter of Anah the daughter of Zibeon the Hivite;
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxvi
... women who were Canaanites: Adah, the daughter of Elon, the Hittite, and Oholibamah,
the daughter of Anah, the granddaughter of Zibeon, the Hivite; and besides ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

Canaan
... Esau is said in one of them to have married the granddaughter of "Zibeon the Hivite,"
while in the other we read of "the Hivite" who dwelt under Mount Hermon. ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter ii canaan.htm

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