Devine Scripture

Genesis 10:21

What does Genesis 10:21 mean?

A plain-English look at Genesis 10:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Genesis 10:21 means

This verse introduces the lineage of Shem, referring to him as "the father of all the children of Eber" and "the elder brother of Japheth." The designation of Shem as the ancestor of Eber's children is particularly significant because Eber is the patriarch from whom the Hebrews—Abraham's lineage—descend. This clearly distinguishes Shem's line as the one through which God's redemptive plan will unfold. The verse sets apart this genealogy as possessing unique spiritual importance.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And unto Shem, the father of all the children of Eber, the elder brother of Japheth, to him also were children born.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And unto Shem, the father of all the children of Eber, the elder brother of Japheth, to him also were children born.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Shem, the older brother of Japheth, the father of the children of Eber, had other sons in addition.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

As to Shem, father of all sons of Eber, brother of Japheth the elder, he hath also begotten:

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Of Sem also the father of all the children of Heber, the elder brother of Japheth, sons were born.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And to Shem — to him also were [sons] born; he is the father of all the sons of Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder.

Context

Following the complete account of Ham's descendants, this verse transitions to Shem, the third and last of Noah's sons. The specific descriptors for Shem, particularly linking him to Eber, are critical. This introduction is more detailed than those for Japheth or Ham, subtly signaling the special significance of Shem's lineage, which will lead to Abraham and ultimately to Christ.

v.20These are the sons of Ham, after their families, after their tongues, in their lands, in their nations.

v.21This passage

v.22The sons of Shem: Elam, and Asshur, and Arpachshad, and Lud, and Aram.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Genesis 11:10

    These are the generations of Shem. Shem was a hundred years old, and begat Arpachshad two years after the flood:

  • Numbers 24:24

    But shipsshall comefrom the coast of Kittim, And they shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber; And he also shall come to destruction.

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