Interesting Facts

• Zibeon is identified as one of the sons of Seir the Horite, who were inhabitants of the land of Seir.
• Zibeon is listed as one of the dukes of the Horites in the land of Edom.
• One of Zibeon’s sons, Anah, is noted for finding the Yemim (or mules, depending on the translation) in the wilderness while tending Zibeon’s donkeys.

Genealogy

• Zibeon’s father was Seir the Horite.
• His siblings included Lotan, Shobal, Anah (another brother), Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan.
• Zibeon’s children were Ajah and Anah.

Historical Context

Zibeon resided in the land of Seir, later known as Edom, during the period when the Horites were the established inhabitants. The birth of Seir’s children is placed between the years 2087 and 2107 AM, situating Zibeon’s lifetime in the generations following Abraham and during the early life of Isaac. The designation of some of Seir’s sons, including Zibeon, as “dukes” suggests a tribal structure with some form of leadership or recognized status within the Horite community. The narrative context of these sources at this time primarily focuses on the lineage of Abraham and Isaac; the information provided regarding Zibeon and his kin serves to paint a broader picture of the peoples inhabiting the surrounding regions. The unique event of Anah discovering the Yemim while caring for Zibeon’s donkeys offers a small glimpse into the pastoral lifestyle that likely characterized this period for the Horites.

Narrative

Zibeon’s narrative presence within these excerpts is primarily genealogical, establishing his place within the lineage of the Horites, the early inhabitants of the land of Seir. He is identified as one of the seven sons of Seir and is further noted as one of the “dukes” among them, indicating a position of some authority or distinction within his people. The most specific narrative detail associated with Zibeon is indirectly through his son Anah, who encountered the Yemim in the wilderness while tending Zibeon’s donkeys. This brief account, though focused on Anah, highlights Zibeon’s ownership of livestock and the typical responsibilities within their societal structure. Beyond these genealogical listings and the mention of his son’s unusual discovery, the provided texts do not offer further details regarding Zibeon’s personal actions, dialogues, or direct involvement in any significant events. His role in the overarching narrative of these sources is to contribute to the understanding of the tribal makeup and early inhabitants of the land before the prominence of the Edomites.