Genesis 25:15 Meaning and Explanation
“Hadar, and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The final five of Ishmael's twelve sons are named.
The Context of Genesis 25:15
The list concludes with five more sons, completing Ishmael's twelve sons.
What Does Genesis 25:15 Mean?
With the addition of Hadar, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah, the complete list of Ishmael's sons reaches twelve, fulfilling the specific promise God made: 'I will make him a great nation.' Tema, like Kedar, becomes known in biblical and historical sources as an important Arabian trading center. The twelve sons mirror the twelve tribes that will later descend from Jacob, showing the completeness of blessing upon both lines.
The symmetry is intentional: both Ishmael and Jacob (Israel) will father twelve sons who become the patriarchs of distinct peoples. Though the covenant promise passes through Jacob, God's blessing upon Ishmael was equally substantial and historically verifiable. Both brothers receive abundant blessing, though in different forms and with different ultimate purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 25:15
What does Genesis 25:15 mean?
The final five of Ishmael's twelve sons are named.
What is the context of Genesis 25:15?
The list concludes with five more sons, completing Ishmael's twelve sons.