Genesis 10:1

¶ Now these [are] the generations of the sons of Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth: and unto them were sons born after the flood.

Now these are the generations {H8435} of the sons {H1121} of Noah {H5146}, Shem {H8035}, Ham {H2526}, and Japheth {H3315}: and unto them were sons {H1121} born {H3205} after {H310} the flood {H3999}.

Here is the genealogy of the sons of Noach — Shem, Ham and Yefet; sons were born to them after the flood.

This is the account of Noah’s sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who also had sons after the flood.

Now these are the generations of the sons of Noah, namely, of Shem, Ham, and Japheth: and unto them were sons born after the flood.

Commentary

Genesis 10:1 introduces the famous "Table of Nations," a pivotal genealogical record in the Bible. This verse sets the stage for detailing the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—who, along with Noah and his wife, were the sole survivors of the great flood. It emphasizes the continuity of humanity through this preserved family line, fulfilling God's command to "be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth".

Context

Following the catastrophic global flood described in Genesis chapters 6-9, this verse marks a new beginning for humanity. It functions as a direct introduction to the comprehensive list of nations and peoples that originated from Noah’s family, detailed throughout the rest of Genesis chapter 10. This genealogical record highlights how the entire post-flood world population descended from these three individuals, establishing a common ancestry for all mankind.

Key Themes

  • Humanity's Renewal and Continuity: The verse underscores God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant and ensuring the continuation of the human race after the flood. It shows that God's plan for humanity did not end with judgment but was renewed through Noah's family.
  • Divine Providence and Repopulation: It illustrates God's active role in guiding the repopulation of the earth, demonstrating His sovereign control over history and the formation of nations.
  • Genealogy and Origins: This chapter provides the biblical framework for understanding the origins and dispersion of various peoples and languages across the globe, laying the groundwork for subsequent biblical history.
  • Shared Ancestry: The verse powerfully affirms that all people, regardless of their ethnicity or geographical location, share a common ancestor in Noah, emphasizing the unity of humankind. This concept is echoed in the New Testament by Paul, who states that God "hath made of one blood all nations of men".

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "generations" is toledot (תּוֹלְדֹת), which means "births," "descendants," or "accounts." This term is a significant structural marker throughout the book of Genesis, often introducing a new section or family line. It indicates a focus on lineage and historical development, much like the phrase "This is the book of the generations of Adam" from earlier in Genesis. The use of toledot here signals the beginning of a detailed account of Noah's progeny.

Practical Application

Genesis 10:1 reminds us of our shared heritage and the deep interconnectedness of all humanity. In a world often divided by ethnic and nationalistic tensions, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that we all stem from a single family, preserved by God's grace. It encourages us to recognize the dignity and value of every person, understanding that our diversity is part of God's design for a richly populated earth. It also highlights God's enduring faithfulness to His promises, even after judgment, demonstrating His continuous work in the world.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 2:4 (4 votes)

    ¶ These [are] the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens,

  • Genesis 9:7 (4 votes)

    And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein.

  • Genesis 9:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.

  • Genesis 6:9 (3 votes)

    These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.

  • Matthew 1:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

  • Genesis 5:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ This [is] the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;

  • Genesis 9:19 (3 votes)

    These [are] the three sons of Noah: and of them was the whole earth overspread.