Genesis 10:7

And the sons of Cush; Seba, and Havilah, and Sabtah, and Raamah, and Sabtecha: and the sons of Raamah; Sheba, and Dedan.

And the sons {H1121} of Cush {H3568}; Seba {H5434}, and Havilah {H2341}, and Sabtah {H5454}, and Raamah {H7484}, and Sabtecha {H5455}: and the sons {H1121} of Raamah {H7484}; Sheba {H7614}, and Dedan {H1719}.

The sons of Kush were S’va, Havilah, Savta, Ra‘mah and Savt’kha. The sons of Ra‘mah were Sh’va and D’dan.

The sons of Cush: Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabteca. And the sons of Raamah: Sheba and Dedan.

And the sons of Cush: Seba, and Havilah, and Sabtah, and Raamah, and Sabteca; and the sons of Raamah: Sheba, and Dedan.

Commentary

Genesis 10:7 is a foundational verse within the "Table of Nations," detailing a specific branch of humanity's lineage after the great Flood. It meticulously lists some of the direct descendants of Cush, who was one of the sons of Ham, and then further specifies two prominent grandsons through Cush's son, Raamah.

Context

This verse is part of Genesis chapter 10, often referred to as the "Table of Nations." This comprehensive genealogical record outlines the origins and distribution of the various peoples and nations that emerged from Noah's three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Following the post-Flood command to be fruitful and multiply, this chapter demonstrates how the earth began to be repopulated and how distinct ethnic groups formed. Genesis 10:7 specifically focuses on the descendants of Cush, who is introduced as a son of Ham in Genesis 10:6.

Key Themes

  • Genealogical Record: The verse highlights the Bible's commitment to preserving detailed family histories, establishing the origins of various ancient peoples.
  • Divine Order: It implicitly shows God's sovereign hand in the formation and distribution of nations across the globe, fulfilling His command for humanity to fill the earth.
  • Geographical and Tribal Origins: The names listed are not merely abstract; they represent the ancestral heads of distinct tribal groups or nations that would later inhabit specific regions, primarily in Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Linguistic and Historical Insights

The names in this verse carry significant historical weight:

  • Cush: Generally identified with ancient Ethiopia or Nubia, a region south of Egypt. The descendants of Cush likely spread across parts of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, Sabtecha: These are presented as the direct sons of Cush. Many scholars associate these names with regions and tribes in the Arabian Peninsula, particularly along its southern and eastern coasts, and possibly parts of Africa. Havilah, for instance, is also mentioned in connection with gold in Genesis 2:11, suggesting a region known for its resources.
  • Sheba and Dedan: These are the sons of Raamah. Sheba and Dedan are particularly well-known in later biblical and extra-biblical texts as powerful trading nations in the Arabian Peninsula. Sheba, famous for its wealth, spices, and gold, is most notably associated with the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon. Dedan was also a significant commercial center. Their inclusion here establishes their ancient lineage directly from Noah through Ham and Cush, underscoring their prominence from early times.

Practical Application

Though an ancient genealogy, Genesis 10:7 offers enduring truths:

  • Human Interconnectedness: It underscores the common origin of all humanity from a single family, reminding us that despite our diverse cultures and geographies, we share a fundamental unity.
  • God's Sovereignty Over Nations: The meticulous listing of these early peoples demonstrates that God has been involved in the formation and distribution of nations from the very beginning. His plan encompasses all peoples.
  • Appreciation for Diversity: The "Table of Nations" celebrates the rich tapestry of human ethnicity and culture, all stemming from God's design. This ancient record encourages us to appreciate the unique contributions and histories of different peoples.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 27:22 (4 votes)

    The merchants of Sheba and Raamah, they [were] thy merchants: they occupied in thy fairs with chief of all spices, and with all precious stones, and gold.

  • Ezekiel 27:15 (3 votes)

    The men of Dedan [were] thy merchants; many isles [were] the merchandise of thine hand: they brought thee [for] a present horns of ivory and ebony.

  • Psalms 72:10 (2 votes)

    The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

  • 1 Kings 10:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ 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.

  • Isaiah 21:13 (2 votes)

    ¶ The burden upon Arabia. In the forest in Arabia shall ye lodge, O ye travelling companies of Dedanim.

  • Genesis 2:11 (2 votes)

    The name of the first [is] Pison: that [is] it which compasseth the whole land of Havilah, where [there is] gold;