King James Version
What Does Genesis 36:7 Mean?
“For their riches were more than that they might dwell together; and the land wherein they were strangers could not bear them because of their cattle.”
Context
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.
6
And Esau took his wives, and his sons, and his daughters, and all the persons of his house, and his cattle, and all his beasts, and all his substance, which he had got in the land of Canaan; and went into the country from the face of his brother Jacob. persons: Heb. souls
7
For their riches were more than that they might dwell together; and the land wherein they were strangers could not bear them because of their cattle.
8
Thus dwelt Esau in mount Seir: Esau is Edom.
9
And these are the generations of Esau the father of the Edomites in mount Seir: the Edomites: Heb. Edom
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **The land wherein they were strangers.**—The large growth of their wealth made the separation of Esau and Jacob as inevitable as had been that of Abraham and Lot. It is a usual incident in the life of nomads, and a tribe can multiply only to the extent of the capabilities of their district to support them. When this is reached, one portion of the tribe must seek a new home. This necessity was in the present case aggravated by Esau and Jacob being only sojourners in Canaan, surrounded by tribes who claimed to be owners of the soil: and this may have helped in determining Esau’s choice; for in right of Aholibamah, he was in her country a duke. Maimonides also observes, that though Esau had gone on hunting expeditions to Seir, and even possibly for plunder, yet that he was not sufficiently powerful to take possession of the country until by Isaac’s death the number of his retainers was largely multiplied.
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 36:7 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 36:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge