Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 36:15 mean?
A: Genesis 36:15 lists the chiefs (tribal leaders) descended from Elifaz, the firstborn son of Esav (Esau). These chiefs—Teman, Omar, Tzfoh, and Kenaz—represent important clans within the Edomite nation. The Torah records these lineages to show the fulfillment of G-d's promise that Esav would become a great nation (Genesis 25:23). Rashi explains that these names also appear later in prophecies about Edom (e.g., Obadiah 1:9).
Q: Why does the Torah list Esav's descendants in detail?
A: The Torah details Esav's descendants to show that despite his spiritual shortcomings, he still became the father of a significant nation (Edom), fulfilling G-d's blessing (Genesis 27:39-40). Ramban teaches that recording these lineages also helps distinguish the Edomites from the Israelites, ensuring clarity about the chosen line of Yaakov (Jacob). Additionally, Midrash Tanchuma notes that Esav's greatness in this world contrasts with Yaakov's spiritual legacy.
Q: Who were the chiefs mentioned in Genesis 36:15?
A: The chiefs in Genesis 36:15—Teman, Omar, Tzfoh, and Kenaz—were leaders of clans descended from Elifaz, Esav's eldest son. Teman became particularly prominent; later biblical references (e.g., Jeremiah 49:7) associate 'Teman' with wisdom, possibly due to a scholarly tradition among his descendants. The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 2b) mentions that the Edomites (including these clans) were known for their political power and worldly achievements.
Q: What lesson can we learn from this verse?
A: This verse teaches that G-d fulfills His promises, even to those like Esav who stray from righteousness. The Sages (Malbim) note that while Esav's descendants achieved temporal greatness, Yaakov's line inherited eternal spiritual blessings. It reminds us that material success (like Esav's) is fleeting compared to the lasting value of Torah and mitzvot (commandments).
Introduction to the Verse
The verse lists the chiefs (אַלּוּפִים) of the descendants of Esav (Esau), specifically those from his firstborn son Elifaz. This enumeration appears in Sefer Bereishit (Genesis 36:15) as part of the Torah's detailed account of Esav's lineage, emphasizing the fulfillment of Hashem's blessing to Avraham that his descendants would become numerous nations (Bereishit 17:4-6).
Meaning of "אַלּוּפֵי" (Chiefs)
Rashi explains that the term אַלּוּפֵי refers to leaders or rulers, derived from the root אל"ף, meaning "to lead" or "to be at the head." These chiefs were the heads of clans within the Edomite nation, each governing their respective territories. The Ramban adds that the term implies strength and authority, as these leaders were both politically and militarily significant.
The Sons of Elifaz
The verse names four chiefs from the line of Elifaz: תֵּימָן (Teman), אוֹמָר (Omar), צְפוֹ (Zefo), and קְנַז (Kenaz). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 83:4) notes that these names correspond to regions or tribes within Edom, suggesting that Esav's descendants established powerful and enduring dynasties.
Historical and Theological Significance
The Torah's detailed account of Esav's lineage serves multiple purposes:
Connection to Later Jewish Thought
The Sages (Talmud, Avodah Zarah 10b) teach that the descendants of Esav would wield significant power in the world, often in opposition to Yaakov's descendants. However, the Midrash (Tanchuma, Vayishlach 8) also emphasizes that Esav's greatness was temporary, while Yaakov's legacy would endure eternally through Torah and mitzvot.