Genesis 10:22

Authorized King James Version

The children of Shem; Elam, and Asshur, and Arphaxad, and Lud, and Aram.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
שֵׁ֖ם
of Shem
shem, a son of noah (often including his posterity)
#3
עֵילָ֣ם
Elam
elam, a son of shem and his descendants, with their country; also of six israelites
#4
וְאַשּׁ֑וּר
and Asshur
ashshur, the second son of shem; also his descendants and the country occupied by them (i.e., assyria), its region and its empire
#5
וְאַרְפַּכְשַׁ֖ד
and Arphaxad
arpakshad, a son of noah; also the region settled by him
#6
וְל֥וּד
and Lud
lud, the name of two nations
#7
וַֽאֲרָֽם׃
and Aram
aram or syria, and its inhabitants; also the name of the son of shem, a grandson of nahor, and of an israelite

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation 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

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources