1 Chronicles 1:42
The sons of Ezer; Bilhan, and Zavan, and Jakan. The sons of Dishan; Uz, and Aran.
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֥י
The sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בְּנֵ֥י
The sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
6 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
The Horites inhabited Seir before Esau's arrival (Deuteronomy 2:12, 22). Archaeological evidence from Edomite sites shows sophisticated iron-working and copper mining operations in the Arabah valley. Edom's eventual destruction by Babylon (c. 553 BC) and Nabatean occupation fulfilled prophetic warnings.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's command not to abhor Edomites despite their hostility challenge your attitude toward those who oppose you?
- What does the preservation of Horite genealogies teach about God valuing every people group's historical significance?
Analysis & Commentary
The sons of Ezer; Bilhan, and Zavan, and Jakan—these Horite/Hurrian clans descended from Seir the Edomite (Genesis 36:27). The בִּלְהָן (Bilhan) and זַעֲוָן (Zaavan) families inhabited Edom before Esau's descendants displaced them. The Horites were indigenous cave-dwellers (חֹרִי from חוֹר, 'hole' or 'cave') in Mount Seir's rugged terrain.
The Chronicler's inclusion of Edomite genealogies serves to establish completeness and acknowledge kinship: Edom descended from Esau, Jacob's twin brother. Though Edom became Israel's bitter enemy (Obadiah), they remained 'brothers,' and Deuteronomy 23:7 forbade abhorring Edomites. This demonstrates God's concern for all peoples while working His purposes through Israel.