Genesis 10:19

KJV

And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as thou comest to Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest, unto Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even unto Lasha.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the border {H1366} of the Canaanites {H3669} was from Sidon {H6721}, as thou comest {H935} to Gerar {H1642}, unto Gaza {H5804}; as thou goest {H935}, unto Sodom {H5467}, and Gomorrah {H6017}, and Admah {H126}, and Zeboim {H6636}, even unto Lasha {H3962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The border of the Kena‘ani was from Tzidon, as you go toward G’rar, to ‘Azah; as you go toward S’dom, ‘Amora, Admah and Tzvoyim, to Lesha.

Berean Standard Bible

and the borders of Canaan extended from Sidon toward Gerar as far as Gaza, and then toward Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, as far as Lasha.

American Standard Version

And the border of the Canaanite was from Sidon, as thou goest toward Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest toward Sodom and Gomorrah and Admah and Zeboiim, unto Lasha.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 10:19 meticulously defines the geographical boundaries of the Canaanite territory, stretching from Sidon in the north, extending southwest to Gerar and Gaza, and then eastward to encompass the infamous cities of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim near the Dead Sea, concluding at Lasha. This precise demarcation within the "Table of Nations" highlights God's sovereign ordering of peoples and lands, subtly foreshadowing both future divine judgments upon the wicked cities and the eventual dispossession of the Canaanites to make way for the inheritance of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 10, often termed the "Table of Nations," provides a comprehensive genealogical and geographical account of humanity's dispersion following the Flood, tracing the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This chapter systematically details the origins, settlements, and linguistic divisions of various peoples, establishing a foundational ethnological and geographical framework for the ancient world. Within this broader survey, Genesis 10:19 specifically focuses on the descendants of Canaan, son of Ham, delineating the precise territorial extent of their initial habitation. This detailed boundary description serves not only as a historical record but also as a crucial geographical backdrop for the subsequent narratives, particularly the Abrahamic covenant and the eventual conquest of the Promised Land by Israel.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, land ownership and territorial claims were fundamental to identity, power, and survival. Detailed descriptions of borders, like that found in Genesis 10:19, were common in ancient treaties and historical records, reflecting a keen awareness of geographical realities and political spheres of influence. The Canaanites occupied a strategically vital land bridge between Mesopotamia and Egypt, characterized by fertile plains, coastal access, and important trade routes. The cities mentioned—Sidon, Gerar, Gaza, Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboim, and Lasha—were significant urban centers or identifiable landmarks of the period, underscoring the historical precision of the biblical account. The inclusion of the "cities of the plain" (Sodom, Gomorrah, etc.) within Canaanite territory is particularly noteworthy, as it establishes their geographical and cultural affiliation *before* their cataclysmic destruction, setting the stage for later divine judgment.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 10:19 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty** over all nations and their territories. Even before the call of Abraham, God is depicted as the one who orchestrates the distribution of peoples across the earth, setting their boundaries (cf. [Deuteronomy 32:8](/deuteronomy/32-8 "When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance")). Secondly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Foreshadowing of Judgment and Promise**. The inclusion of the notoriously wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah within the Canaanite borders, prior to their destruction in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"), serves as a grim premonition of divine judgment against sin. Concurrently, this precise mapping of Canaan's land lays the geographical groundwork for God's later promise of this very land to Abraham and his descendants as their inheritance, as seen in [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "God's Promise of Land to Abraham") and [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "The Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land"), implying the eventual dispossession of the Canaanites due to their iniquity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **border (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwl'_):** (H1366) From a root meaning "to twist" or "a cord," this term properly refers to a boundary line or the territory enclosed by such a line. In Genesis 10:19, it denotes the precise geographical limits of the Canaanite domain, emphasizing a divinely ordained or recognized demarcation of land. The meticulous detailing of this "border" highlights the ordered nature of God's creation and the distribution of peoples.
* **Canaanites (Hebrew, _Kᵉnaʻanîy'_):** (H3669) This is a gentilic noun, referring to an inhabitant of Canaan, a descendant of Canaan, the son of Ham. The term also carries a secondary implication of "pedlar" or "merchant," reflecting the Canaanites' prominent role in ancient trade. Their identification here establishes the primary inhabitants of the land that would later become central to Israel's history and God's covenant promises.
* **Sodom (Hebrew, _Çᵉdôm'_):** (H5467) Derived from an unused root meaning "to scorch," indicating a burnt or bituminous district. This name identifies one of the infamous "cities of the plain" known for its profound wickedness and subsequent catastrophic destruction by divine judgment. Its inclusion within the Canaanite border in this genealogical chapter is a significant chronological and thematic detail, setting the stage for future narratives of judgment and redemption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon":** This clause establishes the northernmost point of the Canaanite territory. Sidon, a prominent Phoenician coastal city, served as a significant landmark in the ancient Near East, marking the initial point of the boundary's description.
* **"as thou comest to Gerar, unto Gaza":** This phrase delineates the southwestern extent of the Canaanite land. Gerar, located in the Negev, and Gaza, a major Philistine city on the coastal plain, indicate a significant westward and southward reach of Canaanite influence, extending towards the Mediterranean and the desert fringes. The phrase "as thou comest" implies a journey or a geographical understanding from a northern perspective.
* **"as thou goest, unto Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim":** Moving eastward and southeastward from the previous points, this specifies the infamous "cities of the plain" situated near the Dead Sea. Their inclusion here is crucial, establishing their existence and affiliation within the Canaanite sphere prior to their destruction, which is detailed later in Genesis. The repetition of "as thou goest" reinforces the directional description of the border.
* **"even unto Lasha":** This final phrase marks the easternmost boundary of the Canaanite lands. Lasha is believed to be located near the Dead Sea, possibly corresponding to the hot springs of Callirhoe, completing the comprehensive geographical outline of the territory.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 10:19 employs several literary devices that enhance its function as a precise geographical and historical record. The most prominent is **Geographical Enumeration**, where a detailed list of specific places (Sidon, Gerar, Gaza, Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboim, Lasha) systematically outlines the territorial limits. This exhaustive listing provides a sense of historical accuracy and comprehensive mapping. The **Repetition** of the phrases "as thou comest" and "as thou goest" serves to guide the reader along the described boundary, creating a mental journey across the landscape and emphasizing the directional flow of the border's definition. Furthermore, the inclusion of cities like Sodom and Gomorrah, known for their later destruction, acts as a subtle form of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at future divine judgments and the moral state of the inhabitants of this land, which would eventually lead to their dispossession. This verse, therefore, is not merely a dry geographical listing but a carefully constructed piece of narrative that contributes to the grand theological themes of Genesis.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 10:19, while seemingly a straightforward geographical description, is rich with theological and thematic significance. It powerfully illustrates God's meticulous oversight and sovereign control over the nations and their territories. Even before the call of Abraham, God is actively involved in the distribution and demarcation of peoples across the earth, setting boundaries according to His divine plan. This verse also serves as a crucial geographical prelude to God's covenant promises to Abraham, particularly concerning the land. The detailed listing of Canaan's borders defines the very territory that would later become the Promised Land for Israel, setting the stage for the narrative of their inheritance and the eventual dispossession of the Canaanites due to their escalating wickedness. The inclusion of the "cities of the plain" within this border, prior to their destruction, subtly foreshadows divine judgment against sin and underscores the principle that God's patience has limits, and His justice will ultimately prevail.

* [Deuteronomy 32:8](/deuteronomy/32-8 "God's Division of Nations")
* [Acts 17:26](/acts/17-26 "God Determines the Times and Boundaries of Nations")
* [Genesis 15:16](/genesis/15-16 "The Iniquity of the Amorites Not Yet Full")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 10:19, though a seemingly technical geographical verse, offers profound insights into God's sovereign control over human history and the distribution of nations. It reminds us that God's meticulous oversight extends not only to people but also to the very lands they inhabit, demonstrating His overarching plan for all creation. The inclusion of cities destined for judgment, like Sodom and Gomorrah, serves as a timeless reminder that divine judgment is often preceded by a period of grace and an opportunity for repentance. This verse, therefore, contributes to the grand narrative of God's promises, His justice, and His unfolding plan, providing foundational knowledge for understanding the subsequent history of Israel and the fulfillment of God's covenant. For us today, it prompts reflection on God's active involvement in the affairs of nations, His justice, and His faithfulness to His promises, even across millennia. It encourages us to recognize that our own lives and circumstances are also within the boundaries of His sovereign plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed geographical description in Genesis 10:19 reinforce the idea of God's sovereignty over the earth and its inhabitants?**
* **What spiritual lessons can be drawn from the inclusion of cities like Sodom and Gomorrah within the Canaanite borders, knowing their eventual fate?**
* **How does understanding God's historical ordering of nations, as seen in this verse, shape our perspective on contemporary geopolitical events?**
* **In what ways does this verse, by setting the stage for the Promised Land, deepen our appreciation for God's faithfulness to His covenant promises?**

### FAQ
**Why is Genesis 10 called the "Table of Nations"?**

Answer: Genesis 10 is referred to as the "Table of Nations" because it provides a comprehensive genealogical and geographical account of the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—detailing how the various nations and peoples spread across the earth after the Flood, establishing their respective territories and languages. It is a foundational text for understanding the origins and distribution of humanity.

**What is the significance of listing Sodom and Gomorrah in this verse?**

Answer: The inclusion of Sodom and Gomorrah in [Genesis 10:19](/genesis/10-19 "Sodom and Gomorrah in Canaanite Borders") is highly significant because it establishes their existence within the Canaanite territory before their dramatic destruction, which is recounted later in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"). This chronological detail underscores the historical accuracy of the biblical narrative and subtly foreshadows the divine judgment that would fall upon these cities due to their profound wickedness. It highlights that even before God's specific covenant with Abraham, the moral state of nations was a concern for divine justice.

**How does this verse relate to God's later promise of the land to Israel?**

Answer: [Genesis 10:19](/genesis/10-19 "Canaanite Borders and Israel's Inheritance") meticulously defines the very land that God would later promise to Abraham and his descendants as their inheritance, as seen in [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "God's Promise of Land to Abraham") and [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "The Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land"). By detailing the Canaanite borders, the verse sets the geographical stage for the subsequent narrative of Israel's entry into and possession of the Promised Land, highlighting God's sovereign plan to dispossess the wicked Canaanites and establish His covenant people in their place. This demonstrates God's long-term, unfolding plan for redemption and the establishment of His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Genesis 10:19 primarily details geographical boundaries, it contributes to the overarching biblical narrative that finds its ultimate culmination in Christ. The promise of a specific land to Abraham, within these very Canaanite borders, finds its ultimate fulfillment not merely in a physical territory but in the spiritual inheritance offered through Christ. Just as the Canaanites were eventually dispossessed due to their profound sin and idolatry, Christ's work on the cross dispossesses sin's dominion over humanity, offering a new spiritual "land" of redemption, freedom, and eternal life for all who believe, regardless of their earthly origin ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Redemption Through Christ")). Furthermore, Christ, as the true King of kings and Lord of lords, inherits all nations and lands, establishing a spiritual kingdom that transcends earthly borders and geographical limitations ([Psalm 2:8](/psalm/2-8 "Ask of Me, and I will give You the Nations"); [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "The Kingdoms of the World Become the Kingdoms of Our Lord")). He is the one through whom all the families of the earth are blessed ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "All Families of the Earth Blessed Through Abraham")), fulfilling the divine ordering of peoples and territories in a new and eternal covenant, bringing together a people from every tribe and nation into His glorious kingdom ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "A Multitude from Every Nation")).

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

Genesis 14:2

[That these] made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, and Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, which is Zoar.

Genesis 19:24

¶ Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;

Genesis 19:25

And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.

Genesis 18:20

And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;

Genesis 13:10

¶ And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it [was] well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, [even] as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.

Genesis 13:17

Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee.

Joshua 14:1

¶ And these [are the countries] which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed for inheritance to them.