### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yepheth**, represented by `{{H3315}}`, is defined as **expansion**. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** and refers specifically to **Japheth**, a son of Noah, and his posterity. The name is foundational to the biblical account of humanity's repopulation after the flood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3315}}` is consistently used to identify Japheth as one of the three sons of Noah who survived the flood in the ark [[Genesis 7:13]]. He is first mentioned as being born to Noah alongside his brothers Shem and Ham [[Genesis 6:10]]. Following the flood, Japheth participates with his brother Shem in the honorable act of covering their father's nakedness [[Genesis 9:23]]. This event precedes a significant prophecy from Noah: "God shall enlarge Japheth{H3315}, and he shall dwell in the tents of Shem" [[Genesis 9:27]]. The genealogies in Genesis and 1 Chronicles list the sons of Japheth as the progenitors of various nations ([[Genesis 10:2]], [[1 Chronicles 1:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the familial context for Japheth:
* `{{H5146}}` **Nôach** (rest; Noach, the patriarch of the flood; Noah): This is Japheth's father. The narrative is centered on Noah's actions and the role of his sons, with nearly every mention of Japheth connecting him to Noah [[Genesis 5:32]].
* `{{H8035}}` **Shêm** (name; Shem, a son of Noah): This is Japheth's brother. They are often named together and acted in unison to show respect for their father [[Genesis 9:23]]. They are also linked in Noah's prophecy [[Genesis 9:27]].
* `{{H2526}}` **Châm** (hot; Cham, a son of Noah; Ham): The third brother, completing the trio of Noah's sons who are the forefathers of post-flood humanity [[Genesis 10:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word defines Japheth's identity in relation to his father, Noah. The phrase "sons of Noah" is used repeatedly to describe Japheth and his brothers [[Genesis 9:18]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb establishes the direct lineage of Japheth, specifying that Noah "begat" him along with his brothers [[Genesis 6:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3315}}` is primarily genealogical and prophetic.
* **Progenitor of Nations:** Japheth is presented as a patriarchal head from whom a significant portion of humanity descends. The "generations of the sons of Noah" explicitly list the nations that came from him [[Genesis 10:1-2]].
* **Prophetic Destiny:** Noah's blessing carries theological weight, forecasting a destiny of "enlargement" for Japheth and his descendants, as well as a close relationship with the lineage of Shem [[Genesis 9:27]].
* **Filial Honor:** Japheth's action of covering his father's nakedness, along with Shem, serves as a scriptural example of honoring one's parents, an act that precedes the prophetic blessings they receive [[Genesis 9:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3315}}` is more than just a personal name; it represents a primary branch of humanity in the biblical record. Japheth's identity is inseparable from his father, Noah, and his brothers, Shem and Ham. Through his actions of honor and the specific prophecy concerning his future, he stands as a key figure in the narrative of the world's repopulation and the establishment of the nations.
TRV