Genesis 36:27

Authorized King James Version

The children of Ezer are these; Bilhan, and Zaavan, and Akan.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵ֖לֶּה
these or those
#2
בְּנֵי
The children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#3
אֵ֑צֶר
of Ezer
etser, an idumaean
#4
בִּלְהָ֥ן
are these Bilhan
bilhan, the name of an edomite and of an israelite
#5
וְזַֽעֲוָ֖ן
and Zaavan
zaavan, an idumaean
#6
וַֽעֲקָֽן׃
and Akan
akan, an idummaean

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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