Genesis 11:14 - Shelah lived thirty years, and became the father of Eber.

Generated Verse: Genesis 11:14

What does "Genesis 11:14" mean?


This verse, "Shelah lived thirty years, and became the father of Eber," from Genesis 11:14 is a simple statement within a genealogy in the Book of Genesis. It means:

Shelah: Refers to a specific individual, a descendant in the line leading from Noah to Abraham.
Lived thirty years: States the age of Shelah at a specific point in his life.
And became the father of Eber: Indicates that at the age of thirty, Shelah fathered a son named Eber. This is a crucial point in the lineage, as Eber is a significant figure in Jewish tradition, often associated with the Hebrew people (the term "Hebrew" is believed by some to be derived from his name).

Context and Significance:

This verse is part of a longer genealogy that traces the lineage from Noah's son Shem down to Abraham. The genealogies in Genesis serve several purposes:

Establish Lineage and History: They create a sense of historical connection and establish the origins of the Israelite people.
Demonstrate God's Covenant: The genealogies show the continuation of God's promise and blessing through specific lines of descendants.
Provide a Chronological Framework: While not always precise, they offer a framework for understanding the timeline of events in early human history.
Highlight Important Figures: While many names are simply listed, the genealogy highlights key figures, like Eber, who play significant roles in the narrative.

In summary, the verse is a factual statement about Shelah's life, providing his age when his son Eber was born. Its significance lies within the larger context of the Genesis genealogy, which aims to connect the Israelites to their ancestral roots and demonstrate the unfolding of God's plan.

What categories does "Genesis 11:14" have?