Genesis 11:16

And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg:

And Eber {H5677} lived {H2421} four {H702} and thirty {H7970} years {H8141}, and begat {H3205} Peleg {H6389}:

‘Ever lived thirty-four years and fathered Peleg.

When Eber was 34 years old, he became the father of Peleg.

And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg:

Commentary

Genesis 11:16 KJV is part of a genealogical record, detailing the lineage of Shem after the great Flood, leading directly to Abram (later Abraham). This specific verse marks the birth of Peleg to Eber, a significant moment within this biblical chronology.

Context

This verse is situated within the post-Flood genealogies found in Genesis chapters 10 and 11. Following the account of the Tower of Babel, where humanity's unified language was confounded and people were scattered across the earth, Genesis 11 provides a precise timeline from Shem to Abram. The birth of Peleg is particularly notable because his name is explicitly linked to the significant global event of division. While the immediate context of Genesis 11:16 focuses on the chronological succession, the broader narrative of Genesis highlights God's sovereign hand in shaping history and preserving a chosen lineage.

Key Themes

  • Genealogical Continuity: The verse underscores the unbroken lineage from Noah through Shem, highlighting God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen line through which His redemptive plan would unfold. This careful recording of generations emphasizes the historical foundation of biblical narrative.
  • The Significance of Names: The name "Peleg" (פֶּלֶג) means "division" or "split." As Genesis 10:25 states, "for in his days was the earth divided." This refers to the division of languages and the scattering of peoples from the Tower of Babel, making Peleg's birth a marker for this pivotal event in human history.
  • Divine Sovereignty in Human History: Even amidst human rebellion and the resulting division, God's plan progresses through specific individuals and their generations. The genealogies demonstrate God's control over the timeline and the unfolding of His purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew name Peleg (פֶּלֶג) is directly related to the verb root meaning "to divide" or "to split." This linguistic connection is crucial for understanding the verse's significance beyond mere chronological data. It serves as a mnemonic and prophetic indicator of the profound global shift that occurred during his lifetime, specifically the linguistic and geographical separation of humanity following the events at Babel.

Practical Application

While a genealogical verse might seem distant, Genesis 11:16 reminds us that every individual, even those seemingly minor figures in a long list, plays a part in God's grand narrative. It encourages us to recognize:

  • God's Meticulous Plan: God works through specific people and events across generations to achieve His purposes. Our lives, too, are part of His larger design.
  • The Impact of History: Understanding biblical genealogies helps us appreciate the historical reliability of Scripture and how past events continue to shape the present.
  • The Faithfulness of God: Through the lineage of Eber and Peleg, God faithfully preserved the line that would eventually lead to Abram and the covenant promises, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His plans despite human failings.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 1:19 (2 votes)

    And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one [was] Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name [was] Joktan.

  • Genesis 10:21 (2 votes)

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

  • Genesis 10:25 (2 votes)

    And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one [was] Peleg; for in his days was the earth divided; and his brother's name [was] Joktan.

  • Numbers 24:24 (2 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.

  • Luke 3:35 (2 votes)

    Which was [the son] of Saruch, which was [the son] of Ragau, which was [the son] of Phalec, which was [the son] of Heber, which was [the son] of Sala,