Genesis 10:28

KJV

And Obal, and Abimael, and Sheba,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Obal {H5745}, and Abimael {H39}, and Sheba {H7614},

Complete Jewish Bible

‘Oval, Avima’el, Sheva,

Berean Standard Bible

Obal, Abimael, Sheba,

American Standard Version

and Obal, and Abimael, and Sheba,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 10:28 is a concise yet significant verse within the expansive "Table of Nations," meticulously detailing three of the thirteen sons of Joktan: Obal, Abimael, and Sheba. As direct descendants of Shem, these individuals represent the eponymous founders of distinct tribal groups and nations, primarily associated with the southern Arabian Peninsula. This verse contributes to the biblical account of humanity's post-Flood repopulation, illustrating the divine order in the diversification and spread of peoples across the earth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within [Genesis chapter 10](/genesis/10 "Genesis 10 - The Table of Nations"), often heralded as the "Table of Nations." This chapter serves as a comprehensive genealogical record, tracing the lineages of Noah's three sons—Japheth, Ham, and Shem—following the Great Flood. Its primary purpose is to account for the repopulation of the earth and the establishment of various peoples and geographical regions. Specifically, [Genesis 10:25-29](/genesis/10-25-29 "The Sons of Joktan") focuses on the descendants of Joktan, a prominent figure in the lineage of Shem, from whom Abraham and, subsequently, the nation of Israel would ultimately emerge. The names Obal, Abimael, and Sheba in [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba") continue this detailed enumeration, identifying the progenitors of tribes believed to have settled in the southern Arabian Peninsula.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, genealogies were not merely dry lists but vital historical, legal, and social documents. They established identity, land rights, tribal affiliations, and religious legitimacy. The "Table of Nations" reflects this cultural emphasis, providing a divinely inspired framework for understanding the origins and relationships of various peoples. Following the cataclysmic Flood, humanity's repopulation was a central concern, and this chapter systematically maps out the fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" ([Genesis 9:1](/genesis/9-1 "God's Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply")). The specific mention of Obal, Abimael, and Sheba points to early tribal formations in the Arabian Peninsula, a region known for its ancient trade routes and distinct cultural identities. The inclusion of these names underscores the biblical worldview that all humanity shares a common ancestry, yet diversifies into distinct nations under God's sovereign plan.
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 10](/genesis/10 "The Table of Nations"), and by extension [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba"), contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Order and Sovereignty** in the unfolding of human history, demonstrating God's meticulous plan for the repopulation and organization of the world after the Flood. Secondly, it powerfully asserts the **Common Origin of All Humanity**, tracing every nation back to Noah's family, thereby emphasizing our shared ancestry and fundamental unity despite subsequent diversity, a theme echoed in [Acts 17:26](/acts/17-26 "All Nations from One Man"). Thirdly, it illustrates the **Fulfillment of God's Command** to be fruitful and multiply, as the earth is indeed replenished by Noah's descendants, as seen in [Genesis 9:1](/genesis/9-1 "God's Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply") and [Genesis 1:28](/genesis/1-28 "The Creation Mandate"). Finally, these genealogies lay the crucial **Foundation for Redemptive History**, meticulously tracing the lineage through Shem, which will eventually lead to Abraham in [Genesis 12](/genesis/12 "The Call of Abraham") and, ultimately, to the Messiah.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Obal (Hebrew, _ʻÔwbâl_):** This name is noted as being "of foreign derivation." In the context of genealogies, the name Obal signifies an individual who became the eponymous ancestor of a particular tribe or people group. Its foreign origin suggests a linguistic or cultural distinction, aligning with the diversification of languages and peoples described in the broader narrative of Genesis. As a son of Joktan, Obal's descendants are traditionally associated with regions in the southern Arabian Peninsula.
* **Abimael (Hebrew, _ʼĂbîymâʼêl_):** Derived from the Hebrew word for "father" (`אב`, _ʼāb_) and an "elsewhere unused (probably foreign) word," this name means "father of Mael" (apparently some Arab tribe). This etymology suggests an ancient tribal connection, where Abimael served as the patriarchal figure or founder of a group known as "Mael." The inclusion of this name further solidifies the historical and genealogical intent of the "Table of Nations," marking the origin of another distinct people group within the Joktanite lineage, also situated in the southern Arabian sphere.
* **Sheba (Hebrew, _Shᵉbâʼ_):** This name is also "of foreign origin" and is significant because it refers to "the name of three early progenitors of tribes and of an Ethiopian district." In this specific verse, Sheba is a son of Joktan, a descendant of Shem. This Sheba is distinct from the Sheba descended from Ham through Cush (listed in [Genesis 10:7](/genesis/10-7 "Sheba, son of Cush")) and is the progenitor of the well-known Sabaean kingdom, a powerful and wealthy civilization in ancient Yemen, famous for its trade in spices and precious goods. The recurrence of the name highlights the complexity of ancient tribal nomenclature and the need for careful contextual interpretation within the biblical narrative.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Obal":** This introduces the first of the three sons of Joktan mentioned in this specific verse. Obal, as a progenitor, signifies the beginning of a distinct tribal line. The simple conjunction "And" continues the enumeration from the preceding verses, maintaining the rhythmic and systematic nature of the genealogical list.
* **"and Abimael":** Following Obal, Abimael is presented as another son of Joktan. His name, potentially meaning "father of Mael," points to his role as the founder or patriarch of a specific tribal entity. The repetition of "and" reinforces the comprehensive nature of the list, ensuring that each son is given individual recognition as a distinct ancestral head.
* **"and Sheba":** The final name in this verse, Sheba, is particularly notable due to its historical prominence. As a son of Joktan, this Sheba is the ancestral figure behind the powerful Sabaean kingdom, renowned for its wealth and trade. The inclusion of Sheba here connects this ancient genealogy directly to later historical and biblical narratives, such as the visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon ([1 Kings 10:1](/1_kings/10-1 "The Queen of Sheba's Visit to King Solomon")), demonstrating the long-term impact of these foundational lineages.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba") and indeed throughout [Genesis 10](/genesis/10 "The Table of Nations") is **Genealogy**. This meticulous listing of names and lineages serves not only as a historical record but also as a theological statement, emphasizing divine order and the fulfillment of God's command to fill the earth. The verse also employs **Enumeration**, a simple yet effective technique of listing names sequentially, which provides a sense of completeness and systematic organization to the vast task of detailing the repopulation of the world. Furthermore, the names themselves often function as **Eponymous Naming**, where the individual's name becomes synonymous with the tribe or nation that descends from them, providing a clear and memorable link between the ancestor and their progeny. This device allows the biblical text to efficiently convey the origins of diverse peoples through a concise list of their foundational patriarchs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 10:28, though a mere listing of names, is deeply significant within the broader biblical narrative. It underscores God's meticulous sovereignty over human history, demonstrating that even the seemingly disparate origins of nations are part of His grand design. The precise enumeration of these sons of Joktan, like all the genealogies in the "Table of Nations," highlights the divine intention for humanity to multiply and fill the earth, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the chosen line of Shem. This verse, therefore, is not just a historical record but a testament to God's faithfulness in bringing about His purposes, culminating in the establishment of a people through whom all the families of the earth would be blessed.

* [Genesis 9:1](/genesis/9-1 "God's Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply"): This verse directly reflects God's post-Flood command to Noah and his sons to "be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth," showcasing the fulfillment of divine decree through the expansion of these lineages.
* [Acts 17:26](/acts/17-26 "All Nations from One Man"): Paul's declaration that God "hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth" finds its historical and theological grounding in the "Table of Nations," affirming the common ancestry of all humanity as detailed in Genesis.
* [Galatians 3:8](/galatians/3-8 "Gospel Preached to Abraham"): The promise to Abraham that "in thee shall all nations be blessed" is rooted in the Shemite lineage, which includes Joktan and his sons. This demonstrates how these early genealogies are foundational to understanding God's universal redemptive purpose for all peoples.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Even in the seemingly mundane details of a genealogical list like [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba"), profound spiritual truths are embedded for our reflection and application. This verse reminds us that God is a God of order and meticulous detail, actively involved in the formation and distribution of humanity across the globe. It challenges us to see every nation and people group, no matter how distinct, as originating from a common source under God's sovereign hand, fostering a sense of shared humanity and interconnectedness rather than division. For believers, this historical foundation reinforces the reliability of Scripture and the faithfulness of God's plan, assuring us that His purposes, from the repopulation of the earth to the ultimate redemption of mankind, are meticulously executed and will surely come to pass. It encourages us to appreciate the diversity of cultures and peoples as part of God's design, recognizing that each has a unique place in His unfolding story.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of genealogies in Genesis, including [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba"), deepen your understanding of God's character and His involvement in human history?**
* **In what ways does the "Table of Nations" challenge contemporary notions of racial or national superiority, emphasizing the common origin of all humanity?**
* **How might understanding the historical and geographical context of these ancient peoples, like the descendants of Joktan, enrich your reading of other biblical narratives or even current events?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies, like the one in [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba"), so detailed in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible serve multiple crucial purposes beyond mere historical record. They establish **historical continuity**, demonstrating God's faithfulness across generations and His meticulous involvement in human affairs. They also **validate claims of lineage**, particularly important for priestly and royal lines, and ultimately for the Messiah's descent. In the context of the [Table of Nations](/genesis/10 "The Table of Nations"), they show the **fulfillment of God's command** to "be fruitful and multiply" ([Genesis 9:1](/genesis/9-1 "God's Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply")) and illustrate the **common origin of all humanity** from Noah's family, despite their subsequent diversification into distinct nations and languages. This detailed record highlights God's sovereign plan for the repopulation and ordering of the world.

**Is the Sheba mentioned in [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba") the same as the Queen of Sheba who visited King Solomon?**

Answer: The [Sheba](/genesis/10-28 "Sheba, son of Joktan") in [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba") is listed as a son of Joktan, a descendant of Shem. This Sheba is the ancestral founder of the Sabaean kingdom, a prominent and wealthy civilization in ancient southern Arabia (modern-day Yemen). While this Sheba is not the *person* of the Queen of Sheba, the famous [Queen of Sheba](/1_kings/10-1 "The Queen of Sheba's Visit to King Solomon") who visited King Solomon ([1 Kings 10:1](/1_kings/10-1 "The Queen of Sheba")) is widely believed to have ruled over the kingdom that descended from this very Shemite lineage. It is crucial to distinguish this Sheba from the [Sheba](/genesis/10-7 "Sheba, son of Cush") descended from Ham through Cush in [Genesis 10:7](/genesis/10-7 "Sheba, son of Cush"), indicating different tribal origins and often different geographical associations.

**Where did the descendants of Joktan, including Obal, Abimael, and Sheba, primarily settle?**

Answer: While the precise geographical locations for all of Joktan's descendants are subject to scholarly debate, there is a general consensus that they primarily settled in the **southern Arabian Peninsula**. This region, known for its ancient trade routes, incense production, and rich resources, aligns with later biblical and historical references to the wealth and influence of the kingdoms that emerged from these lineages. The mention of [Sheba](/genesis/10-28 "Sheba, son of Joktan") in particular points directly to the prominent Sabaean kingdom, a powerful entity in what is now modern-day Yemen, renowned for its sophisticated civilization and extensive trade networks.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Though [Genesis 10:28](/genesis/10-28 "Obal, Abimael, and Sheba") appears to be a simple genealogical list, it serves as an integral thread in the grand tapestry of God's redemptive plan, ultimately culminating in Christ. The "Table of Nations" ([Genesis 10](/genesis/10 "The Table of Nations")) meticulously traces humanity's lineage from Noah, with a specific and intentional focus on the line of Shem, from whom Abraham ([Genesis 11:27](/genesis/11-27 "The Lineage of Terah")) and, eventually, Jesus Christ ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")) would descend. This seemingly dry list of names underscores God's meticulous providence in preparing the way for the Messiah, demonstrating that every nation and tribe, though distinct in their origins, finds its ultimate purpose, reconciliation, and unity in Christ. In Him, the divisions of nations are transcended, as people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "The Lamb is worthy")) are called to be united into one spiritual family, fulfilling God's original intention for humanity to be fruitful, fill the earth, and ultimately reflect His glory. Christ's redemptive work bridges the divides created by sin and Babel, bringing all who believe into a new humanity where there is "neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "One in Christ Jesus")).

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

1 Kings 10:1

¶ And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to prove him with hard questions.

1 Chronicles 1:20

And Joktan begat Almodad, and Sheleph, and Hazarmaveth, and Jerah,

1 Chronicles 1:28

¶ The sons of Abraham; Isaac, and Ishmael.

Genesis 25:3

And Jokshan begat Sheba, and Dedan. And the sons of Dedan were Asshurim, and Letushim, and Leummim.