“And the Hivite, and the Arkite, and the Sinite.”
Context:Genesis 10, also known as the Table of Nations, provides a genealogy of the descendants of Noah’s three sons after the flood. It highlights the origins of various nations and peoples that came from them.
The Hivites:The Hivites were one of the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land of Canaan. They are mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, particularly in relation to the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land by the Israelites. The Hivites were one of the seven nations that inhabited the land before the Israelites arrived.
The Arkites:The Arkites were a people group that resided in the city of Arka, which was located in the region of Phoenicia (modern-day Lebanon). They are mentioned in the context of the descendants of Canaan.
The Sinites:The Sinites were a people group whose exact identity is uncertain. Some scholars believe they were associated with the city of Sinai or Sena in modern-day Lebanon. Others suggest a possible connection to the land of Sinim mentioned in Isaiah 49:12, which may refer to a region in the east, possibly China. However, due to the limited information available, it is challenging to establish a definitive identification.
Significance:Genesis 10:17 provides a glimpse into the diverse array of nations and peoples that emerged after the flood and traces their origins. It reflects God’s plan for humanity to populate the earth and showcases the fulfillment of His promise to Noah to replenish the earth with descendants.
