Old Testament
Genesis 36:2
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 Esau, a significant figure in the Bible, and his marriages.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Esau married women from Canaan: Adah, whose father was Elon the Hittite, and Aholibamah, whose father was Anah and whose grandfather was Zibeon the Hivite.
Esau took his wives of the daughters of Canaan; Adah the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Aholibamah the daughter of Anah the daughter of Zibeon the Hivite;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about Esau, a significant figure in the Bible, and his marriages. He chose to marry women from Canaan, which was notable because these women were from a different cultural background than his own family. Adah, the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Aholibamah, the daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite, are named specifically. This choice of wives reflects Esau's desire to connect with the local people, but it also highlights the tensions between different groups. Marrying outside of his family line was a significant decision that would impact his descendants. The mention of their fathers and grandfathers emphasizes the importance of family lineage in that time. This passage sets the stage for understanding the relationships and conflicts that arise later in the story. Esau's choices reveal much about his character and the cultural dynamics of his time, making this a pivotal moment in the narrative of Genesis. It invites readers to consider the implications of their own choices in relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 36:2 to your life
Consider the impact of your choices in relationships. Just as Esau's marriages influenced his family dynamics, your decisions can shape your life and those around you. Reflect on how your connections with others reflect your values and beliefs. Choose wisely and thoughtfully in your relationships to foster positive outcomes. Remember, every choice matters in the long run. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “This chapter introduces Esau's marriages to Canaanite women, highlighting cultural interactions. It sets the stage for future
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 36:2 mean?
Genesis 36:2 describes Esau's marriages to two Canaanite women, Adah and Aholibamah. This choice reflects his integration into the local culture and highlights the significance of family lineage during that time.
Who are the women Esau married in Genesis 36:2?
In Genesis 36:2, Esau married Adah, the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Aholibamah, the daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite. These marriages illustrate his connections with the Canaanite people.
What is the significance of Esau's marriages in Genesis 36:2?
Esau's marriages in Genesis 36:2 are significant because they show his decision to marry outside his family line, which could lead to cultural tensions and affect his descendants. This choice reflects the broader theme of relationships and cultural interactions.
What cultural implications are present in Genesis 36:2?
Genesis 36:2 highlights cultural implications by showing Esau's marriages to Canaanite women, which signifies a blending of cultures. This choice may have influenced future relationships and conflicts between different groups.

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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