These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom, before any king reigned over the Israelites.
31. These are the kings that reigned, etc We must keep in memory what we have said a little before, that reprobates are suddenly exalted, that they may immediately fall, like the herb upon the roofs, which is destitute of root, and has a hasty growth, but withers the more quickly. To the two sons of Isaac had been promised the honor that kings should spring from them.
By degrees, it seems, the Edomites wormed out the Horites, obtained full possession of the country, and had a government of their own. 1. They were ruled by kings, who governed the whole country, and seem to have come to the throne by election, and not by lineal descent; so bishop Patrick observes.
Commenting on Genesis 36:31-43
And Hadad died,.... As is supposed, about A. M. 2241. and Samlah of Masrekah reigned in his stead; but who he was, or the place he was of, cannot be said.