Old Testament
Genesis 36:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
From Esau's wife Aholibamah came these chiefs: chief Jeush, chief Jaalam, and chief Korah. These were the chiefs descended from Aholibamah, the daughter of Anah and wife of Esau.
Compare translations
And these are the sons of Aholibamah Esau’s wife; duke Jeush, duke Jaalam, duke Korah: these were the dukes that came of Aholibamah the daughter of Anah, Esau’s wife.
What Genesis 36:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the descendants of Aholibamah, who was Esau's wife. She had three sons who became chiefs: Jeush, Jaalam, and Korah. These names represent a lineage that is significant in the context of Esau's family. Aholibamah was the daughter of Anah, which connects her to a broader family history. The mention of chiefs indicates that these sons held important roles in their community. This lineage shows how families grow and evolve over generations. It also highlights the importance of family ties and heritage in shaping identities. Understanding these connections can help us appreciate our own family histories and the roles we play within them. Each name carries a story and a legacy that contributes to the larger narrative of their people. This passage reminds us that our roots matter and that we are part of a bigger picture, just like Aholibamah's sons were part of Esau's legacy and the unfolding story of their descendants. Their lives and roles were significant in their time.
How to apply Genesis 36:18 to your life
Reflect on your own family history and the roles your relatives have played. Consider how their stories shape your identity today. Just as Aholibamah's sons contributed to their community, think about how you can make a positive impact in your own family and community. Every family has a story worth telling, including yours. Embrace it and share it with others to inspire connection and understanding. This can strengthen your bonds with those around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 36:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 36:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 36:18 mean?
Genesis 36:18 discusses the descendants of Aholibamah, Esau's wife, highlighting her three sons who became chiefs: Jeush, Jaalam, and Korah. This verse emphasizes the importance of family lineage and the roles these individuals played in their community.
Who are the chiefs mentioned in Genesis 36:18?
The chiefs mentioned in Genesis 36:18 are Jeush, Jaalam, and Korah. They are the sons of Aholibamah, Esau's wife, and their titles indicate their leadership roles within their community.
What is the significance of Aholibamah in Genesis 36:18?
Aholibamah is significant in Genesis 36:18 as she is Esau's wife and the mother of three chiefs. Her lineage connects to broader family histories and highlights the importance of family ties in shaping identities.
What does the term 'chiefs' refer to in Genesis 36:18?
In Genesis 36:18, the term 'chiefs' refers to leaders or heads of families who held important roles in their community. This indicates that Aholibamah's sons were influential figures in their society.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.