Topical Encyclopedia
Mizzah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogies that trace the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. Mizzah is noted as one of the sons of Reuel, who was a son of Esau. This places Mizzah among the Edomites, a group that descended from Esau and inhabited the region of Edom, located to the southeast of Israel.
Biblical References:Mizzah is mentioned in the Book of Genesis, which provides the genealogical record of Esau's descendants. The relevant passage is found in
Genesis 36:13, which states:
"These were the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. These were the sons of Basemath, Esau’s wife." (
Genesis 36:13)
This verse situates Mizzah within the broader context of Esau's family, highlighting the lineage through Basemath, one of Esau's wives. The genealogy of Esau is significant in the biblical narrative as it establishes the origins of the Edomite people, who frequently interacted with the Israelites throughout the Old Testament.
Historical and Theological Context:The Edomites, descendants of Esau, played a notable role in the history of Israel. The relationship between the Israelites and the Edomites was complex, often marked by conflict and tension. This is rooted in the fraternal struggle between Esau and Jacob, which began even before their birth, as described in
Genesis 25:22-26. The rivalry between the two brothers set the stage for the future interactions between their descendants.
Mizzah, as part of Esau's lineage, represents the continuation of Esau's legacy through Reuel. The genealogies in Genesis serve not only to record family lines but also to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His plan through various peoples and nations. The Edomites, despite their frequent opposition to Israel, are part of the broader narrative of God's dealings with humanity.
Cultural and Geographical Significance:The land of Edom, associated with Esau's descendants, is characterized by its rugged terrain and strategic location. It was situated along important trade routes, which contributed to its economic significance in the ancient Near East. The Edomites' interactions with neighboring nations, including Israel, were influenced by their geographical position and resources.
In biblical prophecy, Edom is often mentioned in the context of judgment and restoration. The prophets, including Isaiah and Obadiah, spoke of Edom's downfall due to its pride and hostility towards Israel. However, these prophecies also reflect the broader theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ultimate plan for redemption.
Conclusion:Mizzah, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, is part of the intricate tapestry of genealogies that connect the history of Israel with its neighboring peoples. His mention in the lineage of Esau underscores the enduring impact of familial relationships and divine promises throughout the biblical account.
Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary
Mizzahdefluxion from the head
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Mizzah(fear), son of Reuel and grandson of Esau. (Genesis 36:13,17;1 Chronicles 1:37)
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Despair, one of the four sons of Reuel, the son of Esau (
Genesis 36:13, 17).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
MIZZAHmiz'-a (mizzah, "strong," "firm"): Grandson of Esau, one of the "dukes" of Edom (Genesis 36:13, 171 Chronicles 1:37).
Strong's Hebrew
4199.Mizzah -- grandson of Esau... 4198, 4199.
Mizzah. 4200 . grandson of Esau. Transliteration:
Mizzah Phonetic Spelling: (miz-zaw') Short Definition:
Mizzah. Word
...Library
Chapter xxxvi
... These are the sons of Adah, the wife of Esau. And these are the sons of Reuel: Nahath
and Zerah, Shammah andMizzah.... Chief Kenaz ChiefMizzah. Chief Korah....
Thesaurus
Mizzah (3 Occurrences)...MIZZAH. miz'-a (
mizzah, "strong," "firm"): Grandson of Esau, one of the "dukes"
of Edom (Genesis 36:13, 17 1 Chronicles 1:37).
...Mizzah (3 Occurrences).
...Nahath (5 Occurrences)
... Genesis 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah.... 1
Chronicles 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
Reuel (14 Occurrences)
... Genesis 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah.... 1
Chronicles 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
Reu'el (10 Occurrences)
... Genesis 36:13 And these are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, and Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
1 Chronicles 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
Shammah (8 Occurrences)
... Genesis 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah.... 1
Chronicles 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
Zerah (22 Occurrences)
... Genesis 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah.... 1
Chronicles 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah....
Grandsons (9 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). Genesis 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and
Mizzah. These were the sons of Basemath, Esau's wife. (See NIV)....
Esau's (13 Occurrences)
... wife. (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS RSV NIV). Genesis 36:13 These are
the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, andMizzah. These...
Basmath (7 Occurrences)
... (DBY). Genesis 36:13 And these are the sons of Reuel: Nahath and Zerah, Shammah
andMizzah. These are the sons of Basmath Esau's wife. (DBY)....
Bashemath (6 Occurrences)
... (KJV WBS YLT). Genesis 36:13 And these are the sons of Reuel; Nahath, and Zerah,
Shammah, andMizzah: these were the sons of Bashemath Esau's wife....
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