Genesis 10:15

KJV

¶ And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Canaan {H3667} begat {H3205} Sidon {H6721} his firstborn {H1060}, and Heth {H2845},

Complete Jewish Bible

Kena‘an fathered Tzidon his firstborn, Het,

Berean Standard Bible

And Canaan was the father of Sidon his firstborn, and of the Hittites,

American Standard Version

And Canaan begat Sidon his first-born, and Heth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 10:15, a concise but pivotal entry within the comprehensive "Table of Nations," meticulously records two immediate and foundational descendants of Canaan, a son of Ham: Sidon, identified as his firstborn, and Heth. This verse is crucial for understanding the genealogical origins of significant ancient peoples—the Sidonians and the Hittites—who would later play prominent roles in the geopolitical and spiritual landscape of the biblical world, particularly as inhabitants of the land divinely promised to Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 10:15 is situated within the "Table of Nations" found in [Genesis 10](/genesis/10 "Genesis 10 - The Table of Nations"), a unique and comprehensive genealogical record that traces the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—as they repopulated the earth after the Great Flood. This chapter systematically outlines the origins and dispersion of the diverse peoples and nations known to the ancient Israelites. Specifically, verses 6-20 detail the lineage of Ham, highlighting his four sons and their descendants. Our verse, [Genesis 10:15](/genesis/10-15 "Canaan's Descendants"), focuses on Canaan, whose lineage is particularly significant as it leads directly to the peoples who would inhabit the land later promised to Abraham and his descendants, setting the stage for the dramatic covenant history that unfolds in subsequent books. The precise enumeration here serves to underscore the historical and geographical grounding of God's unfolding plan.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "Table of Nations" reflects an ancient Near Eastern understanding of ethnography, classifying peoples based on their perceived ancestral lines and geographical distribution. The descendants of Canaan, as listed in [Genesis 10:15-19](/genesis/10-15-19 "The Descendants of Canaan"), represent the indigenous inhabitants of the land that would become known as Canaan, a region stretching from modern-day Lebanon down to the Sinai Peninsula, and encompassing parts of Syria and Transjordan. This area was a crucial land bridge between major ancient civilizations (Egypt, Mesopotamia, Anatolia) and thus a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange. The Sidonians (Phoenicians) were renowned maritime traders and craftsmen, while the Hittites were a formidable imperial power in Anatolia and northern Syria. The inclusion of these specific groups in this genealogy demonstrates the biblical author's awareness of the major regional powers and peoples, framing their origins within the broader narrative of post-Flood human dispersion.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **God's Sovereignty over Nations**, demonstrating that even the origins and dispersion of seemingly disparate peoples are part of a divine plan, not random occurrences. Secondly, it lays crucial groundwork for the theme of **Covenant and Promise**, specifically the Abrahamic Covenant, by identifying the future inhabitants of the land God promised to Abraham's descendants (e.g., [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). The naming of Sidon and Heth, progenitors of peoples who would frequently interact with, and often oppose, Israel, foreshadows future conflicts and the necessity of divine intervention for Israel to possess its inheritance. Lastly, the verse subtly touches upon the theme of **Consequences of Sin**, as Canaan's lineage is presented against the backdrop of Noah's curse upon him in [Genesis 9:25](/genesis/9-25 "Noah's Curse on Canaan"), linking the future fate of these nations to their progenitor's transgression.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The KJV text of Genesis 10:15 states: "¶ And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth,"

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Canaan (Hebrew, _Kᵉnaʻan'_):** From the root meaning "to be humbled" or "to bow down," this name is associated with humiliation. Kena'an is identified as a son of Ham and the eponymous ancestor of the Canaanites, a diverse group of peoples who inhabited the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. This region, known as the Land of Canaan, would later become the Promised Land for Israel, making his lineage profoundly significant. The term also came to be associated with "merchant" or "trafficker," reflecting the economic activity of the region.
* **begat (Hebrew, _yâlad'_):** A primitive root meaning "to bear young" or, causatively, "to beget." This term emphasizes direct biological fatherhood and the continuation of a lineage. In the context of genealogies, it signifies the historical and familial connection between individuals, establishing the foundational link between Canaan and his descendants, and thus the nations that would spring from them.
* **Sidon (Hebrew, _Tsîydôwn'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to catch fish," thus "fishery." Sidon was a major Phoenician city-state located on the northern Mediterranean coast, known for its maritime power, trade, and craftsmanship. As Canaan's "firstborn," Sidon's prominence is reflected in its historical significance and frequent mentions in later biblical narratives, often as a center of idolatry and foreign influence (e.g., [1 Kings 16:31](/1_kings/16-31 "Jezebel, a Sidonian Princess")).
* **firstborn (Hebrew, _bᵉkôwr'_):** From a root meaning "to be first" or "to come early." This term denotes the eldest son, implying a position of preeminence, leadership, and often a double portion of inheritance in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The identification of Sidon as Canaan's firstborn suggests his particular importance or the early establishment of the Sidonian people among Canaan's progeny.
* **Heth (Hebrew, _Chêth'_):** From a root meaning "to be terrified" or "to be broken down." Heth is the progenitor of the Hittites, a powerful and influential empire that flourished in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) and northern Syria. The Hittites were a formidable force, known for their military prowess and advanced ironworking. Their presence in the land of Canaan is attested early in the biblical narrative, as seen in Abraham's interaction with the "sons of Heth" when purchasing the cave of Machpelah ([Genesis 23:3-18](/genesis/23-3-18 "Abraham Buys the Cave of Machpelah")). The inclusion of Heth here underscores the widespread influence of Canaan's descendants.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn,"**: This initial clause establishes the direct paternal relationship between Canaan and Sidon, identifying Sidon as the primary and most prominent of Canaan's offspring. The use of "begat" signifies a direct ancestral link, while "firstborn" highlights Sidon's preeminent status among Canaan's progeny, indicating the early emergence and significance of the Sidonian people. This detail is not merely genealogical but sets the stage for the historical importance of the city and people of Sidon in the ancient world.
* **"and Heth,"**: This concluding phrase introduces Heth as another direct son of Canaan, following immediately after Sidon. While not explicitly called "firstborn," his immediate mention signifies his foundational role as a progenitor. Heth's inclusion here is crucial for understanding the origins of the Hittites, a powerful people who would later interact significantly with Israel, both as inhabitants of the land and as a major regional power. The brevity of the phrase belies the profound historical impact of the people he would father.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Genesis 10:15](/genesis/10-15 "Canaan's Descendants") and throughout the "Table of Nations" is **Genealogy** (or **Toldot** in Hebrew, meaning "generations" or "account of"). This systematic listing of descendants serves multiple purposes: it provides a historical framework for the dispersion of humanity after the Flood, establishes the origins of various nations, and legitimizes the claims and relationships of different peoples. Within this genealogical framework, there is also **Enumeration**, a simple listing of names, which provides a concise and authoritative record. The specific naming of Sidon as "firstborn" also employs a form of **Emphasis**, drawing attention to his particular significance among Canaan's offspring. Furthermore, by identifying the progenitors of the Sidonians and Hittites, the text uses **Foreshadowing**, subtly preparing the reader for the future interactions, conflicts, and divine judgments involving these peoples in the unfolding biblical narrative, particularly concerning the land of Canaan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 10:15, as part of the "Table of Nations," profoundly underscores God's meticulous ordering of human history and the origins of diverse peoples. It demonstrates a divine purpose in the spread of humanity and the formation of nations, even those seemingly outside the direct covenant line. The identification of Canaan's descendants, particularly those who would inhabit the land, implicitly points to the unfolding of Noah's curse upon Canaan and sets the stage for the later divine judgment against the Canaanite nations due to their wickedness and idolatry. By detailing the inhabitants of the land of Canaan, this verse lays crucial groundwork for the Abrahamic Covenant, identifying the very peoples whom God would dispossess to make way for Israel, thereby highlighting God's sovereign plan to establish a chosen nation in a specific geographical location. The historical accuracy implied by the mention of verifiable groups like the Sidonians and Hittites affirms the Bible's commitment to historical reality and demonstrates God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of all nations.

* [Genesis 9:25](/genesis/9-25 "Noah's Curse on Canaan")
* [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "God's Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land")
* [Deuteronomy 7:1-5](/deuteronomy/7-1-5 "Instructions to Destroy Canaanite Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 10:15, though a brief genealogical entry, serves as a powerful reminder that even the seemingly "dry" parts of Scripture carry profound theological and historical weight. It highlights God's meticulous attention to detail in orchestrating human history, from the origins of nations to the specific inhabitants of a promised land. For us, this underscores the importance of understanding the historical and geographical context of God's redemptive plan. It teaches us that God's promises and judgments unfold within real-world realities, meticulously recorded, demonstrating His faithfulness to His word and His sovereign control over all peoples and their destinies. This verse invites us to marvel at the scope of God's plan, which encompasses not just a chosen people, but the entire tapestry of human civilization, all moving toward His ultimate purposes. It challenges us to see divine intentionality in the grand sweep of history, recognizing that every nation and every individual plays a part in God's unfolding narrative.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of genealogies like Genesis 10:15 affirm God's sovereignty over history and nations?**
* **In what ways does understanding the origins of peoples like the Sidonians and Hittites deepen our appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of ancient Israel?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the long-term fulfillment of God's promises, even those that span centuries and involve multiple generations?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Sidon being called Canaan's "firstborn"?**

Answer: The designation of Sidon as Canaan's "firstborn" (Hebrew: _bᵉkôwr_) in [Genesis 10:15](/genesis/10-15 "Canaan's Descendants") indicates a position of preeminence and possibly the earliest or most significant establishment among Canaan's descendants. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the firstborn often held special status, including a double portion of inheritance and leadership within the family. Historically, Sidon was one of the most ancient and prominent Phoenician city-states, a major maritime power and trading hub. This biblical designation aligns with its historical importance, suggesting that the Sidonians were a foundational and leading group among the Canaanite peoples, playing a significant role in the region's early development and influence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 10:15](/genesis/10-15 "Canaan's Descendants") details the lineage of Canaan, a line often associated with opposition to God's people and the subject of Noah's curse, it implicitly points to the broader scope of God's redemptive plan that culminates in Christ. The existence of diverse nations, even those historically hostile to Israel like the Sidonians and Hittites, underscores the universal reach of the Gospel. The "Table of Nations" ultimately demonstrates that all humanity, regardless of their ancestral line or historical role, descends from a common source and is therefore equally in need of God's grace. Christ's mission was not just for the descendants of Shem (Israel) but for all peoples, including those represented by the descendants of Ham and Japheth. The curse on Canaan, while specific, is ultimately overcome by the universal blessing offered through Christ, who breaks down the dividing walls between peoples and invites all nations into His kingdom ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ Breaks Down Walls")). In Christ, the divisions and conflicts rooted in these ancient genealogies are reconciled, demonstrating His sovereignty over all humanity and His purpose to gather a people from every tribe, tongue, and nation ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "A Multitude from Every Nation Worships God")). He is the true firstborn over all creation ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Christ, the Firstborn of All Creation")), uniting all in Himself.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 34:11

Observe thou that which I command thee this day: behold, I drive out before thee the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite.

Numbers 34:2

Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land of Canaan; (this [is] the land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance, [even] the land of Canaan with the coasts thereof:)

Numbers 34:15

The two tribes and the half tribe have received their inheritance on this side Jordan [near] Jericho eastward, toward the sunrising.

1 Chronicles 1:13

And Canaan begat Zidon his firstborn, and Heth,

Genesis 15:18

In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:

Genesis 15:21

And the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Girgashites, and the Jebusites.

Genesis 23:3

¶ And Abraham stood up from before his dead, and spake unto the sons of Heth, saying,