“Unto Shem also, the father of all the children of Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder, even to him were children born.”
Genesis 10:21: Genesis 10:21 is part of the genealogy or Table of Nations found in Genesis chapter 10. This chapter lists the descendants of Noah’s three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. These descendants eventually populated various regions and nations of the ancient world. In this particular verse, the focus is on Shem, who is mentioned as the father of all the children of Eber. Eber is an important figure in the biblical narrative because his name is associated with the Hebrew people.
The term “Hebrew” is derived from the name Eber, and it eventually became the designation for the Israelites, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This verse also mentions Japheth as Shem’s older brother. This reference to Japheth’s age is significant in terms of birth order and the subsequent lineage of nations that descended from Japheth and Shem. The genealogy presented in Genesis 10 reflects the understanding of ancient Hebrews regarding the origins of nations and their relationship to one another. It provides a framework for understanding the diversity and interconnectedness of humanity as they saw it. By studying these genealogies, scholars and readers can trace the historical and geographical roots of various nations and peoples.
Furthermore, these genealogies lay the foundation for the subsequent narratives found in the Bible, particularly those concerning the Israelites, their ancestors, and the covenant God established with them. In summary, Genesis 10:21 is a verse within the Table of Nations, providing a genealogical account of the descendants of Noah. It highlights the relationship between Shem and Japheth and mentions Eber, whose name is linked to the Hebrew people. This verse serves as a starting point for tracing the origins of various nations and peoples in the biblical narrative.
