The Hebrew word Yoqṭân, represented by H3355, identifies an Arabian patriarch. Its base definition is "he will be made little". The name appears 6 times across 6 unique verses, consistently within genealogical lists that trace the descendants of Noah's son, Shem.
In the biblical narrative, Yoqṭân H3355 is presented as a significant link in the table of nations. He is the son of Eber H5677 and the brother of Peleg H6389 (Genesis 10:25; 1 Chronicles 1:19). His family line is noted in the context of a pivotal event, as his brother was named Peleg because in his days H3117 the earth H776 was divided H6385. The primary role of Joktan is that of a progenitor; the texts record that he begat H3205 numerous sons, including Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, and Jerah (Genesis 10:26; 1 Chronicles 1:20), as well as Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab (Genesis 10:29; 1 Chronicles 1:23).
Several related words are essential for understanding Joktan's place in the biblical genealogies:
- H5677 ʻÊbêr (Eber, the name of two patriarchs and four Israelites): He is the father of both Joktan and his brother Peleg, establishing their direct lineage from Shem Genesis 10:25.
- H6389 Peleg (earthquake; Peleg, a son of Shem): As the brother H251 of Joktan, his name marks the historical period when the earth was divided 1 Chronicles 1:19.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is repeatedly used to list the many descendants of Joktan, emphasizing his role as the father of clans and peoples Genesis 10:29.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb establishes Joktan's patriarchal function, listing the sons he begat H3205 who would go on to lead their own tribes Genesis 10:26.
The genealogical significance of H3355 is rooted in its role within the post-flood world.
- Patriarchal Lineage: Joktan is a descendant of Shem through his father, ʻÊbêr H5677, placing his offspring firmly within the Semitic family of nations Genesis 10:21.
- Progenitor of Arabian Peoples: Joktan's primary importance is as the father of the founders of various Arabian tribes. His sons, such as Sheleph H8026, Hazarmaveth H2700, and Ophir H211, are tied to locations and peoples in Arabia.
- Marker of an Era: The mention of his brother Peleg H6389 and the division of the earth H776 connects Joktan's immediate family to a foundational event in the distribution of humanity across the world Genesis 10:25.
In summary, H3355 Yoqṭân is a key figure in the biblical genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles. While his name suggests "he will be made little," his legacy in scripture is defined by his large family. As the son of Eber and brother of Peleg, he serves as the patriarch from whom numerous Arabian peoples descend, cementing his importance in the biblical account of the nations.
TRV