“And Timna was concubine to Eliphaz Esau’s son; and she bare to Eliphaz Amalek: these were the sons of Adah Esau’s wife.”
This verse is found within the genealogical account of Esau’s descendants, specifically the lineage of Esau’s son Eliphaz. It provides information about Timna, who was a concubine to Eliphaz, and their son Amalek.
To understand the significance of this verse, it is essential to examine the context and background of the individuals mentioned. Esau, also known as Edom, was the twin brother of Jacob and the eldest son of Isaac and Rebekah. In the preceding chapters of Genesis, we learn about the complex relationship between Jacob and Esau, including the event where Jacob deceitfully obtained Esau’s birthright and blessing (Genesis 27).
In Genesis 36, the chapter from which our verse is taken, we encounter a detailed account of the genealogy of Esau’s descendants. It lists the various clans and chiefs that arose from Esau’s lineage, establishing the Edomites as a distinct people group. This chapter underscores the fulfillment of God’s promise to multiply Esau’s descendants and to establish them as a great nation, as previously foretold in Genesis 25:23.
Within this genealogical record, verse 12 specifically mentions Timna, who was a concubine to Eliphaz, Esau’s son. A concubine was a secondary wife or a woman in a lower status than a wife. The verse further indicates that Timna bore a son named Amalek to Eliphaz. Amalek would later become the ancestor of the Amalekites, a nation that was known for its hostility towards the Israelites.
This verse serves as a historical marker, tracing the lineage of the Edomites and providing insight into the origins of the Amalekites. The mention of Amalek is significant because this nation played a recurring role in the conflict with the Israelites. The Amalekites became a symbol of opposition to God’s people and a reminder of the ongoing struggle between good and evil.
From a theological perspective, this verse reminds us of the consequences of Esau’s choices and the consequences of sin within the narrative of Genesis. Esau’s marriages to foreign women, including Timna, were displeasing to his parents (Genesis 26:34-35). The inclusion of Timna and Amalek in the genealogy serves as a reminder of the ramifications of marrying outside the covenant community and straying from God’s intended plan.
Overall, Genesis 36:12 contributes to the larger narrative of the Book of Genesis, providing historical and genealogical information while highlighting the enduring consequences of choices made by Esau and his descendants.
