Genesis 10:26 (KJV)

What does Genesis 10:26 mean?

Genesis 10:26 lists some of the sons of Joktan: Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, and Jerah. This verse is part of a genealogy, showing the descendants of Joktan as part of the larger family line after Noah.

Genesis 10 is known as the "Table of Nations," where the descendants of Noah's sons are recorded. Here, the focus is on Joktan, a descendant of Shem, and the verse simply names four of his sons. These names represent early tribal or regional groups in the ancient Near East, helping to trace the spread of peoples after the flood.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 10:26

• יָקְטָן (Yoqtan, "Joktan"): This name means "he will be made small" or "he will diminish," and Joktan is presented as a key ancestor of several Arabian tribes.
• יָלַד (yalad, "begat"): This Hebrew verb means "to give birth to" or "to father," emphasizing direct lineage and descent.
• אַלְמוֹדָד (Almodad), שֶׁלֶף (Sheleph), חֲצַרְמָוֶת (Hazarmaveth), יֶרַח (Jerah): These are personal names, each likely linked to ancient peoples or regions, especially in southern Arabia. Their mention roots the genealogy in real-world geography and history.

Why Genesis 10:26 matters

• Genesis 10:26 helps clarify the spread of Shem's descendants, showing how different peoples and tribes emerged after the flood.
• The verse ties specific names to later known regions, especially in Arabia, grounding the biblical story in the broader ancient world.
• By listing these names, Genesis 10:26 emphasizes the diversity and expansion of humanity, a key theme in the Table of Nations.