Genesis 11:10 - This is the history of the generations of Shem: Shem was one hundred years old when he became the father of Arpachshad two years after the flood.

Generated Verse: Genesis 11:10

What does "Genesis 11:10" mean?


Genesis 11:10 is a genealogical marker and a chronological statement within the larger "Table of Nations" (Genesis 10-11) that traces the descendants of Noah after the flood. Let's break it down:

"This is the history of the generations of Shem:" This is a standard phrase used in Genesis to introduce the lineage and subsequent history of a particular individual or family. It signifies that the following verses will focus on Shem's descendants.

"Shem was one hundred years old..." This gives us Shem's age at a specific point in time.

"...when he became the father of Arpachshad..." This tells us that Shem was 100 years old when his son Arpachshad was born.

"...two years after the flood." This places the birth of Arpachshad two years after the great flood described earlier in Genesis. This is crucial for the chronological framework that the Bible is presenting.

In summary, the verse is saying:

The following text will detail the lineage of Shem.
Shem had a son named Arpachshad.
Arpachshad was born two years after the flood.
Shem was 100 years old at the time of Arpachshad's birth.

Significance:

Genealogy: The verse forms part of a larger genealogy connecting Shem to later figures in the Bible, including Abraham. Genealogies were important in ancient cultures for establishing lineage, inheritance, and social standing.
Chronology: The verse contributes to a chronological timeline that stretches from creation to the time of Abraham. The specified time frame of two years after the flood is important for establishing the date of the flood.
Shem's importance: It highlights the importance of Shem, as the genealogy establishes him as an important ancestor of the Israelites.

It's important to note that the historicity and interpretation of these genealogies are debated. Some view them as literal historical accounts, while others see them as symbolic or theological narratives meant to convey broader truths about the relationship between God and humanity.

What categories does "Genesis 11:10" have?