King James Version
What Does Genesis 36:32 Mean?
“And Bela the son of Beor reigned in Edom: and the name of his city was Dinhabah.”
Context
30
Duke Dishon, duke Ezer, duke Dishan: these are the dukes that came of Hori, among their dukes in the land of Seir.
31
And these are the kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned any king over the children of Israel.
32
And Bela the son of Beor reigned in Edom: and the name of his city was Dinhabah.
33
And Bela died, and Jobab the son of Zerah of Bozrah reigned in his stead.
34
And Jobab died, and Husham of the land of Temani reigned in his stead.
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise CommentaryChapter 36
Esau and his descendants.
--The registers in this chapter show the faithfulness of God to his promise to Abraham. Esau is here called Edom, that name which kept up the remembrance of his selling his birth-right for a mess of pottage. Esau continued the same profane despiser of heavenly things. In outward prosperity and honour, the children of the covenant are often behind, and those that are out of the covenant get the start. We may suppose it a trial to the faith of God's Israel, to hear of the pomp and power of the kings of Edom, while they were bond-slaves in Egypt; but those that look for great things from God, must be content to wait for them; God's time is the best time. Mount Seir is called the land of their possession. Canaan was at this time only the land of promise. Seir was in the possession of the Edomites. The children of this world have their all in hand, and nothing in hope, Lu 16:25; while the children of God have their all in hope, and next to nothing in hand. But, all things considered, it is beyond compare better to have Canaan in promise, than mount Seir in possession.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). 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 36:32 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.