Genesis 10:27 kjv

And Hadoram, and Uzal, and Diklah,

Genesis 10:27 nkjv

Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah,

Genesis 10:27 niv

Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah,

Genesis 10:27 esv

Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah,

Genesis 10:27 nlt

Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah,

Genesis 10 verses

Genesis 10 27 Meaning

Genesis 10:27 presents a genealogical record, listing Hadoram, Uzal, and Diklah as direct descendants, specifically sons, of Joktan. This verse is part of the "Table of Nations" (Gen 10), which meticulously documents the spread and diversification of humanity after the Great Flood through Noah's three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. These specific names trace the lineage from Shem through his son Arphaxad, then Salah, then Eber, and finally Joktan. The verse serves to catalog early Arabian tribes and peoples, highlighting their place within God's single family of nations, emphasizing divine order and a common human origin.

Genesis 10 27 Context

Genesis chapter 10, often called the "Table of Nations" or "Genealogy of Nations," is a foundational text in biblical history. It details the spread of humanity after the Flood through the descendants of Noah's three sons: Japheth (Gen 10:2-5), Ham (Gen 10:6-20), and Shem (Gen 10:21-31). This chapter serves multiple critical purposes: it demonstrates the fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth" (Gen 9:1); it establishes a common human ancestry, counteracting polytheistic notions of multiple human origins; and it provides the backdrop for understanding the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East from a divine perspective.

Verse 27 specifically falls within the section concerning Shem's descendants. Joktan, mentioned as a son of Eber, is identified as the progenitor of various Arab tribes. The verse follows the listing of Joktan's many sons, contributing to the detailed genealogical framework that transitions from the global reset of the Flood to the specific lineage chosen by God to bring forth Abraham. These genealogies are not merely lists; they establish divine order, sovereignty over all peoples, and set the stage for the narrative of God's redemptive plan through Israel.

Genesis 10 27 Word analysis

• And (וְ - ve): A conjunction, literally "and" or "then." In Hebrew narrative, this simple particle is crucial for continuity, linking ideas and actions, or in this case, individual names into a cohesive list within the genealogy. It indicates the sequential naming of Joktan's sons.
• Hadoram (חֲדוֹרָם - Ḥădôrāam):
  • Meaning: The etymology is debated but possibly relates to "Hadad is exalted" or "glory of Ram." Hadad was a prominent Semitic storm and fertility god, so the name could signify a cultural or geographical association, or perhaps predate specific pagan connotations in its earliest usage.
  • Significance: As a name, it indicates a distinct branch of Joktan's lineage. Its recurrence in 1 Chr 1:21 confirms its authenticity as part of the genealogical record. Its specific location or tribal identity is not explicitly stated in the Bible but is generally associated with areas in southern Arabia.
• and (וְ - ve): Connective particle, as above.
• Uzal (אוּזָל - ’Ûzāl):
  • Meaning: Its meaning is less clear but may relate to "leaving," "going out," or possibly refer to a place name.
  • Significance: Historically and archaeologically, Uzal is strongly linked to the city of Sana'a (anciently Auzal) in Yemen. This connection is affirmed by ancient geographers like Ptolemy and Islamic traditions, making Uzal one of the most identifiable names in Joktan's line regarding specific geography. This anchors the biblical genealogy to a verifiable location, confirming the historical dimension of the Table of Nations.
• and (וְ - ve): Connective particle, as above.
• Diklah (דִּקְלָה - Diqlāh):
  • Meaning: Means "palm grove" or "palm tree."
  • Significance: This name is particularly evocative of the Arabian landscape, known for its date palms. It suggests a region abundant in palm trees, possibly located in the fertile areas of southern Arabia where date cultivation was, and remains, vital. The name provides a subtle descriptive geographical clue embedded within the genealogy, painting a picture of the tribal lands.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "And Hadoram, and Uzal, and Diklah": This phrasing highlights the specific individual branches that stemmed from Joktan, illustrating the expansion of humanity as commanded by God. The repetitive "and" underscores the extensive and orderly listing of the various families, portraying them as distinct yet interconnected parts of a larger lineage. This direct listing emphasizes that these were distinct peoples or tribal groups that contributed to the ancient Near Eastern landscape, all tracing their ancestry back to Noah.

Genesis 10 27 Bonus section

The Table of Nations in Genesis 10 has often been viewed as both a historical record and a theological manifesto. In ancient Near Eastern literature, "tables of nations" or similar genealogical lists existed, but none matched the comprehensive and geographically structured approach found in Genesis. This indicates its unique purpose: to present a divinely organized, rather than chaos-born, origin of the diverse peoples of the earth. The emphasis on a single origin from Noah challenges contemporary myths of disparate origins for different peoples.

The identification of Uzal with Sana'a is one of the stronger extrabiblical confirmations for the place-names mentioned in the Table of Nations. This connection provides tangible evidence that these are not mythical names but point to real geographical entities known to ancient audiences. While Hadoram and Diklah are less definitively identified with specific modern locations, scholarly consensus often places them in the southern Arabian Peninsula due to the broader context of Joktan's descendants. This consistent regional association validates the historical coherence of the account.

From a spiritual perspective, the existence of these ancient names, passed down through millennia, underscores the biblical God's interest in the details of human history and lineage. It connects the seemingly disparate peoples of the world to a singular, foundational family, setting the stage for the universal call of the Gospel that transcends all national and tribal boundaries (Gal 3:28).

Genesis 10 27 Commentary

Genesis 10:27, though brief, is a vital component of the Table of Nations, showcasing the orderly diversification of humanity after the Flood. It continues the specific lineage of Shem through Joktan, documenting three of his thirteen sons: Hadoram, Uzal, and Diklah. These names are more than mere entries; they represent distinct family units or nascent tribal groups that contributed to the demographic mosaic of ancient Arabia. The precision in these genealogies underlines the Bible's commitment to historical veracity and its portrayal of God's overarching sovereignty.

The inclusion of these specific names, particularly Uzal, which strongly corresponds to ancient Sana'a, underscores the historical and geographical accuracy of the biblical narrative, placing these families within a tangible world. Diklah's name, meaning "palm grove," hints at the agricultural and environmental context of these emerging societies. This level of detail in such an ancient text reinforces its unique authoritative character.

Furthermore, these genealogical lists serve a crucial theological purpose: they refute polytheistic origins of various peoples by affirming a single, common ancestry from Noah. Every nation, regardless of its later development or idolatrous practices, originates from one source blessed by the one true God. This lays the groundwork for understanding God's relationship with all nations, culminating in the call of Abraham and the ultimate promise that "all the families of the earth shall be blessed" through him (Gen 12:3), extending grace even to those outside the direct covenant line. The verse thus subtly yet profoundly contributes to the grand narrative of God's universal plan for humanity.