King James Version
What Does Genesis 36:3 Mean?
“And Bashemath Ishmael's daughter, sister of Nebajoth.”
Context
1
Now these are the generations of Esau, who is Edom.
2
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;
3
And Bashemath Ishmael's daughter, sister of Nebajoth.
4
And Adah bare to Esau Eliphaz; and Bashemath bare Reuel;
5
And Aholibamah bare Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah: these are the sons of Esau, which were born unto him in the land of Canaan.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Bashemath Ishmael’s daughter, sister of Nebajoth.**—The Samaritan text reads Mahalath here, and in Genesis 36:4; Genesis 36:10; Genesis 36:17, as in Genesis 28:9. There can be little doubt that Mahalath is the right reading, but the versions, nevertheless, agree with the Masoretic Hebrew text, so that the error must have been of very ancient date. As Mahalath was of a Semitic stock, she would have her own Semitic name, and there would be no double translation of it, as in the case of the daughter of Elon.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Genesis 36:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Genesis 36:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge