Old Testament
Genesis 36:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we learn about the descendants of Aholibamah, who was Esau's wife.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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