Genesis 10:31

These [are] the sons of Shem, after their families, after their tongues, in their lands, after their nations.

These are the sons {H1121} of Shem {H8035}, after their families {H4940}, after their tongues {H3956}, in their lands {H776}, after their nations {H1471}.

These were the descendants of Shem, according to their families and languages, in their lands and in their nations.

These are the sons of Shem, according to their clans, languages, lands, and nations.

These are the sons of Shem, after their families, after their tongues, in their lands, after their nations.

Commentary

Genesis 10:31 serves as a concluding summary for the section detailing the descendants of Shem within the comprehensive Table of Nations. This verse reiterates the organizational principles β€” families, languages, lands, and nations β€” by which humanity spread across the earth after the Great Flood.

Context

Chapter 10 of Genesis is a remarkable ethnographic and geographical document, outlining the origins and distribution of the world's peoples from the three sons of Noah: Japheth, Ham, and Shem. This "Table of Nations" describes how the descendants of Noah populated the earth, forming distinct groups. While Genesis 10 presents the *result* of this dispersion, the subsequent chapter, Genesis 11, provides the underlying reason for the linguistic and national divisions: the incident at the Tower of Babel. Verse 31, specifically mentioning "tongues," foreshadows or summarizes the linguistic separation described later.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order in Diversity: The verse highlights God's sovereignty in orchestrating the spread of humanity into distinct ethnic and linguistic groups. It underscores that this diversity is not chaotic but divinely ordered.
  • Consequences of Babel: The explicit mention of "tongues" (languages) points directly to the linguistic division that occurred at Babel, emphasizing that language was a primary factor in the separation of peoples into nations.
  • Foundation for Future Narratives: The lineage of Shem is particularly significant in biblical history, as it is through his line that Abraham, the patriarch of Israel, emerges. This chapter, therefore, sets the stage for God's redemptive plan through a chosen people (see Genesis 12:1).
  • Common Origin: Despite the subsequent divisions, the entire chapter, including this verse, subtly reminds readers that all humanity shares a common ancestry, tracing back to Noah and, ultimately, to Adam.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "tongues" is leshonot (לְשֹׁנֹΧͺ), which directly refers to languages. Its inclusion here is crucial, as it indicates that the division of humanity into distinct groups was not merely geographical or familial but fundamentally linguistic. The term "nations" (Hebrew: goyim - גּוֹיִם) refers to peoples or ethnic groups, often implying distinct territories and political entities.

Practical Application

Genesis 10:31 offers profound insights into human identity and diversity. It teaches us that while humanity is diverse in language, culture, and nationality, we all share a common origin. This understanding can foster a sense of shared humanity and encourage respect for different cultures. For believers, it also underscores God's meticulous plan, which unfolds through specific lineages and historical events, ultimately leading to Christ, who breaks down barriers between peoples (Ephesians 2:14).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 10:20 (4 votes)

    These [are] the sons of Ham, after their families, after their tongues, in their countries, [and] in their nations.

  • Genesis 10:5 (4 votes)

    By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue, after their families, in their nations.

  • Acts 17:26 (3 votes)

    And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;