Interesting Facts

• According to Genesis, Saul of Rehoboth by the river reigned in Edom after Samlah died.
• Jubilees states that Saul of Ra’aboth (by the) river reigned in Edom after Salman died.
• Both sources identify Saul as a successor in the lineage of Edomite kings.
• His designation “of Rehoboth by the river” (Genesis) and “of Ra’aboth (by the) river” (Jubilees) likely indicates his place of origin or the primary territory he governed before becoming king.

Genealogy

• Genesis identifies him as “Saul of Rehoboth by the river”.
• Jubilees identifies him as “Saul of Ra’aboth (by the) river”.
• The provided sources do not offer any information regarding Saul’s ancestry, birth details, marital connections, or offspring. He is defined primarily by his name and his place in the succession of Edomite rulers following Samlah/Salman.

Historical Context

The reign of Saul of Rehoboth/Ra’aboth is situated within the sequence of kings who ruled in Edom before any king reigned over the children of Israel. This places his rule within a specific historical chronology of Edomite monarchs. The designation of his origin as “Rehoboth by the river” or “Ra’aboth (by the) river” suggests a connection to a particular geographical location within Edom, possibly indicating the significance of river settlements or territories during this era. However, the presented excerpts provide limited details about the broader historical events, political climate, or cultural dynamics that directly influenced Saul’s reign, focusing instead on the linear succession of Edomite leadership.

Narrative

The narrative concerning Saul of Rehoboth/Ra’aboth in the provided sources is concise, focusing solely on his position in the succession of Edomite kings. He is mentioned as the ruler who ascended the throne after the death of Samlah (Genesis) or Salman (Jubilees). Following his reign, Baalhanan (or Ba’elunan in Jubilees) became the king of Edom. The texts do not provide any accounts of Saul’s specific actions, any conflicts or significant events during his time as king, or any personal characteristics. His inclusion in the narrative serves primarily to maintain the chronological record of Edomite rulers in the period preceding the Israelite monarchy, marking a transition of power within the kingdom of Edom.