Old Testament
Genesis 36:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Baalhanan son of Achbor died, Hadar succeeded him as king. His capital city was called Pau, and his wife's name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred and granddaughter of Mezahab.
Compare translations
And Baalhanan the son of Achbor died, and Hadar reigned in his stead: and the name of his city was Pau; and his wife’s name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab.
What Genesis 36:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the transition of power after the death of Baalhanan, the son of Achbor. Hadar takes over as king, indicating a change in leadership. His capital city is named Pau, which reflects the importance of place in governance. Hadar's wife, Mehetabel, is introduced, highlighting the connections between families and their roles in society. She is the daughter of Matred and the granddaughter of Mezahab, showing the lineage and heritage that often accompany leadership. This brief account emphasizes the continuity of leadership and the significance of family ties in the ancient world. It reminds us that every leader has a story and a background that shapes their reign. The mention of the city and family connections gives us a glimpse into the culture and values of the time, where lineage and place were crucial to identity and authority. Overall, this passage serves as a reminder of the ongoing cycle of leadership and the importance of relationships in shaping history.
How to apply Genesis 36:39 to your life
Reflect on the leaders in your life and their backgrounds. Consider how family and community shape leadership today. Recognize the importance of relationships in your own journey and how they influence your path. Embrace the stories that connect you to others around you. Every connection matters in shaping who you are and who you will become.
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 36:39
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 36:39
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 36:39 mean?
Genesis 36:39 describes the succession of kings in Edom, specifically noting the death of Baalhanan and the rise of Hadar as king. It highlights the importance of leadership transitions and the significance of family connections in governance.
What is the significance of the city Pau in Genesis 36:39?
The city Pau, mentioned in Genesis 36:39, serves as the capital during Hadar's reign, indicating its importance in the political landscape of Edom. Capitals often symbolize power and authority in ancient societies.
Who was Mehetabel in Genesis 36:39?
Mehetabel, mentioned in Genesis 36:39, is the wife of Hadar and is noted for her lineage as the daughter of Matred and granddaughter of Mezahab. Her family connections emphasize the role of heritage in leadership.
What themes are present in Genesis 36:39?
Genesis 36:39 presents themes of leadership, family ties, heritage, and the transition of power. It reflects how lineage and relationships were crucial in shaping authority and identity in ancient cultures.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.