Genesis 10:20

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֵ֣לֶּה

H428

these or those

בְנֵי

H1121

These are the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

חָ֔ם

H2526

of Ham

cham, a son of noah; also (as a patronymic) his descendants or their country

לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם

H4940

after their families

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

לִלְשֹֽׁנֹתָ֑ם

H3956

after their tongues

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

בְּאַרְצֹתָ֖ם

H776

in their countries

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

בְּגֽוֹיֵהֶֽם׃

H1471

and in their nations

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of covenant community reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?

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