Genesis 10:14

And Pathrusim, and Casluhim, (out of whom came Philistim,) and Caphtorim.

And Pathrusim {H6625}, and Casluhim {H3695},(out of whom came {H3318} Philistim {H6430},) and Caphtorim {H3732}.

the Patrusim, the Kasluchim (from whom came the P’lishtim) and the Kaftorim.

the Pathrusites, the Casluhites (from whom the Philistines came), and the Caphtorites.

and Pathrusim, and Casluhim (whence went forth the Philistines), and Caphtorim.

Commentary

Context

Genesis 10, often referred to as the "Table of Nations," meticulously lists the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—who repopulated the earth after the great Flood. This chapter serves as a crucial genealogical and geographical record, illustrating the origins and early distribution of various peoples and their territories. Verse 14 specifically focuses on a subset of the descendants of Ham, through his son Mizraim (Egypt). It continues the lineage, detailing specific groups that emerged from Mizraim's line, providing a foundational understanding of the ancient world's inhabitants.

Key Themes

  • Origin of Nations: This verse, like the rest of Genesis 10, underscores the biblical account of how all humanity descended from Noah's family, diversifying into distinct nations and peoples. It highlights God's sovereign hand in the spread and settlement of the earth.
  • Historical Foundation: The inclusion of groups like the Pathrusim, Casluhim, and Caphtorim provides historical context for later biblical narratives. Most significantly, it pinpoints the origin of the Philistines, a people who would play a significant role in Israel's history as both neighbors and adversaries.
  • Divine Order: The detailed genealogies demonstrate God's orderly creation and management of humanity, even in its post-Flood expansion. There is a divine purpose in the establishment of these early nations.

Linguistic and Cultural Insights

The names in this verse refer to ancient peoples or regions:

  • Pathrusim: This term is generally understood to refer to the inhabitants of Pathros, which is Upper (southern) Egypt. This differentiates them from other Egyptian groups mentioned.
  • Casluhim: The origin of the Casluhim is less certain, but their significance lies in the parenthetical phrase: "(out of whom came Philistim)". This is a vital piece of information for understanding the biblical origin of the Philistines.
  • Philistim (Philistines): This powerful people group, prominently featured throughout the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Judges and Samuel, are here traced back to the Casluhim. This biblical account suggests their origin from a Hamitic (Mizraimite) line, rather than solely from Aegean migrations (often referred to as "Sea Peoples") which historical archaeology also points to. The Bible further connects the Philistines with Caphtor, indicating a migration or ancestral connection.
  • Caphtorim: Often identified with the island of Crete or a region in the Aegean Sea. The connection between the Casluhim, Philistines, and Caphtorim suggests either a shared ancestry, a migratory path, or a close cultural relationship among these groups. This aligns with extra-biblical historical theories about the Philistines' movements.

Practical Application

Though a genealogical list, Genesis 10:14 offers several enduring lessons:

  • The Bible's Historical Depth: This verse, and the entire Table of Nations, showcases the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and its claim to provide a reliable account of early human history. Even seemingly minor details like the origin of specific peoples are recorded for future generations.
  • God's Sovereignty Over Nations: Understanding the origins of nations reminds us that God is sovereign over all peoples and their movements throughout history. He establishes nations and sets their boundaries (Acts 17:26).
  • Understanding Conflict: Knowing the ancient origins of peoples like the Philistines helps us understand the long-standing interactions and conflicts with Israel detailed later in Scripture. The Bible does not present peoples in isolation but within a divinely ordered historical framework. For instance, the Philistines were a constant challenge to Israel's early kingdom, as seen in the story of David and Goliath.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 47:4 (6 votes)

    Because of the day that cometh to spoil all the Philistines, [and] to cut off from Tyrus and Zidon every helper that remaineth: for the LORD will spoil the Philistines, the remnant of the country of Caphtor.

  • Amos 9:7 (3 votes)

    [Are] ye not as children of the Ethiopians unto me, O children of Israel? saith the LORD. Have not I brought up Israel out of the land of Egypt? and the Philistines from Caphtor, and the Syrians from Kir?

  • 1 Chronicles 1:12 (3 votes)

    And Pathrusim, and Casluhim, (of whom came the Philistines,) and Caphthorim.

  • Deuteronomy 2:23 (3 votes)

    And the Avims which dwelt in Hazerim, [even] unto Azzah, the Caphtorims, which came forth out of Caphtor, destroyed them, and dwelt in their stead.)

  • Jeremiah 44:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ The word that came to Jeremiah concerning all the Jews which dwell in the land of Egypt, which dwell at Migdol, and at Tahpanhes, and at Noph, and in the country of Pathros, saying,

  • Isaiah 11:11 (2 votes)

    And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.