Genesis 36:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And Timna was concubine to Eliphaz Esau's son; and she bare to Eliphaz Amalek: these were the sons of Adah Esau's wife.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eliphaz fathered Amalek through Timna, a concubine, adding to Adah's descendants.
The Context of Genesis 36:12
Eliphaz's fathering of Amalek through a concubine, expanding his line.
What Does Genesis 36:12 Mean?
The introduction of Timna, Eliphaz's concubine, shows the household structures of pastoral societies included secondary wives with defined status and inheritance rights. Amalek, born of this union, becomes significant enough to be listed among Eliphaz's sons. His later prominence as an Amalekite tribal leader demonstrates that even sons of concubines could establish major tribal lineages.
The note "these were the sons of Adah" appears to summarize all of Eliphaz's sons under his mother Adah, though technically Amalek's mother was Timna. This may reflect how Timna was attached to Adah's household or how inheritance was structured through the primary wife's line.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 36:12
What does Genesis 36:12 mean?
Eliphaz fathered Amalek through Timna, a concubine, adding to Adah's descendants.
What is the context of Genesis 36:12?
Eliphaz's fathering of Amalek through a concubine, expanding his line.