Genesis 10:21

¶ Unto Shem also, the father of all the children of Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder, even to him were [children] born.

Unto Shem {H8035} also, the father {H1} of all the children {H1121} of Eber {H5677}, the brother {H251} of Japheth {H3315} the elder {H1419}, even to him were children born {H3205}.

Children were also born to Shem, ancestor of all the descendants of ‘Ever and older brother of Yefet.

And sons were also born to Shem, the older brother of Japheth; Shem was the forefather of all the sons of Eber.

And unto Shem, the father of all the children of Eber, the elder brother of Japheth, to him also were children born.

Commentary

Genesis 10:21 introduces the lineage of Shem, one of Noah's three sons, with a particular focus on his descendants who would become central to God's redemptive plan. This verse serves as a crucial bridge, highlighting the branch from which the Hebrew people, and ultimately the Messiah, would spring.

Context

This verse is part of the "Table of Nations" in Genesis 10, which meticulously details the descendants of Noah's sons—Japheth, Ham, and Shem—after the Great Flood. This chapter outlines the foundation of the various nations and peoples of the post-flood world. While the chapter broadly covers all three sons, verse 21 specifically hones in on Shem, setting the stage for the more detailed genealogy in Genesis 11:10-26 that leads directly to Abraham. The phrase "brother of Japheth the elder" clarifies the relationship and possibly the birth order among Noah's sons, emphasizing Shem's distinct identity within the family.

Key Themes

  • The Line of Promise: Shem's lineage is divinely chosen to carry the covenant promises. This emphasis aligns with Noah's prophetic blessing upon Shem in Genesis 9:26, where God is called "the God of Shem," indicating a special relationship and a future through his descendants.
  • Origin of the Hebrews: The descriptor "the father of all the children of Eber" is highly significant. Eber is the ancestor from whom the term "Hebrew" ('ibri) is derived, directly linking Shem's line to the Israelite people. This verse establishes the ancient roots of the people of God.
  • Divine Providence in Genealogy: Even in what appears to be a dry list of names, the Bible meticulously traces specific lineages, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in guiding human history and preparing the way for the fulfillment of His promises through chosen individuals and families.

Linguistic Insights

The name Eber (עֵבֶר) is crucial here. It literally means "the region beyond" or "to pass over." From Eber comes the ethnolinguistic term 'ibri (עִבְרִי), meaning "Hebrew." Thus, this verse explicitly identifies Shem as the progenitor of the Hebrew people through his descendant Eber, firmly rooting their identity in this specific post-flood lineage.

Practical Application

Genesis 10:21 reminds us that God works through specific people and their generations to accomplish His purposes. It highlights the importance of spiritual heritage and the continuity of God's plan throughout history. For the believer, understanding this verse underscores the meticulous nature of God's redemptive plan, tracing a clear path from Noah through Shem and Eber, ultimately leading to the lineage of Christ. It encourages us to appreciate the faithfulness of God in preserving a people through whom His ultimate salvation would come, as detailed in the broader biblical narrative culminating in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 24:24 (3 votes)

    And ships [shall come] from the coast of Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber, and he also shall perish for ever.

  • Genesis 11:10 (2 votes)

    ¶ These [are] the generations of Shem: Shem [was] an hundred years old, and begat Arphaxad two years after the flood:

  • Genesis 11:26 (2 votes)

    And Terah lived seventy years, and begat Abram, Nahor, and Haran.