What does Genesis 36:43 mean?
This final section of the chapter lists important names in the region of Edom (Genesis 36:1), after recounting the sons (Genesis 36:9–14) and kings (Genesis 36:31–39) who came from Esau's line. It's possible these names were used as regional titles, or they may have been names of specific clans.The chiefs of Esau included Timna, Alvah, Jetheth (Genesis 36:40), Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon (Genesis 36:41), Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar (Genesis 36:42), and now Magdiel and Iram.
This verse sums up that these are, indeed, the chiefs of Esau, father of Edom (Genesis 36:6–8). They led their people in the "land of their possession." Isaac had prophesied this about Esau after Jacob stole from him the family blessing: "By your sword you shall live, and you shall serve your brother; but when you grow restless you shall break his yoke from your neck" (Genesis 27:40). Esau's move to the region of Seir (Genesis 36:6–8) and the possession of Edom by his descendants (Deuteronomy 2:12) is a fulfillment of that "blessing" of independence and self-rule.