Alvah עַלְוָה
Edomite chief, descendant of Esau
Who is Alvah in the Bible?
Alvah was an Edomite chief and descendant of Esau through his son Eliphaz, mentioned in the genealogical records of Genesis 36:40 and 1 Chronicles 1:51. He is listed among the chiefs of Edom, the nation that descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. No further details about his personal life or accomplishments are provided in Scripture. Alvah's mention in these genealogies serves primarily to document the organization and leadership structure of the Edomite people during the ancient Near Eastern period.
Biography
Alvah is mentioned in the genealogies of Esau, the son of Isaac and the brother of Israel (or 'Jacob'), who became the ancestor of the Edomites. He is listed as one of the chiefs of Edom, descended from Esau through his son Eliphaz. (Gen.36.40; 1Ch.1.51)
The genealogy in Genesis 36 and 1 Chronicles 1 traces the descendants of Esau and their settlement in the region of Seir, which later became known as Edom. It provides a record of the chiefs and clans that emerged from Esau's lineage.
Apart from being listed as an Edomite chief, no further details are provided about Alvah's life, his role within the clan, or any significant events associated with him.
The mention of Alvah in the genealogies serves to document the growth and organization of the Edomite people, who became a significant nation in the region. It also highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants, including those through Esau, would become great nations.
In Scripture
2 biblical books ; 1 with study contentGenesis 1 verse
- Genesis 36:40
"These are the names of Esau’s chiefs, according to their families and regions, by their names: Chiefs Timna, Alvah, Jetheth,"
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1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 1:51
"Then Hadad died. Now the chiefs of Edom were Timna, Alvah, Jetheth,"
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | עַלְוָה |
| (same form as previous) | Hebrew | עַלְוָה |