Nahath נַ֫חַת
A descendant of Esau, a chief of Edom.
Who is Nahath in the Bible?
Nahath was a descendant of Esau and served as one of the chiefs of Edom during biblical times. He was the son of Reuel, who was born to Esau and his wife Basemath, the daughter of Ishmael (Genesis 36:13, 17; 1 Chronicles 1:37). As a chief of Edom, Nahath held a leadership position within the tribal structure of the Edomites, the descendants of Esau who settled in the region of Seir south of the Dead Sea. His genealogical record reflects the broader biblical narrative tracing the family lines of Esau, Jacob's brother, and demonstrates the organized leadership structure that emerged among Edom's people in the Old Testament period.
Biography
Nahath is mentioned in Gen.36.13,17 and 1Ch.1.37 as one of the descendants of Esau and a chief of Edom. He was the son of Reuel, who was one of Esau's sons by his wife Basemath, the daughter of Ishmael.
The genealogical records in these passages provide insight into the family lines of Esau, who was the brother of Israel (or 'Jacob') and the ancestor of the Edomites. Esau settled in the region of Seir, south of the Dead Sea, and his descendants became the rulers and chiefs of Edom.
As a chief of Edom, Nahath would have held a position of authority and leadership within the Edomite tribal structure. The chiefs of Edom were likely responsible for governing their respective clans, making decisions on behalf of their people, and representing their interests in dealings with other tribes or nations.
Apart from being listed in these genealogies, no additional information is provided about Nahath's life, character, or specific actions. His inclusion in the record serves to highlight the development and growth of Esau's descendants into a significant nation, as well as to provide a historical context for the relationship between the Israelites and the Edomites.
Family
In Scripture
2 biblical books ; 1 with study contentGenesis 2 verses
- Genesis 36:13
"These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath."
Study Genesis → - Genesis 36:17
"These are the sons of Esau’s son Reuel: Chiefs Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. They are the chiefs descended from Reuel in the land of Edom, and they are the grandsons of Esau’s wife Basemath."
Study Genesis →
1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 1:37
"The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | נַ֫חַת |