Gomer
Gomer is traditionally linked to the Cimmerians, an ancient people who lived in what is now southern Russia and Ukraine. The name "Gomer" (גֹּמֶר) in Hebrew may be related to the idea of completion or perfection, suggesting a fully developed people or nation. Historically, the Cimmerians were known for their movements across the Near East, and their mention here reflects the broad geographical spread of Japheth's descendants.

Magog
Magog is often associated with the Scythians, a nomadic group from the steppes of Central Asia. The Hebrew name "Magog" (מָגוֹג) is sometimes interpreted as "land of Gog," a figure mentioned in prophetic literature (Ezekiel 38-39). This connection to prophecy highlights the enduring significance of these ancient peoples in biblical eschatology.

Madai
Madai is identified with the Medes, an ancient Iranian people. The Hebrew "Madai" (מָדַי) reflects a group that played a significant role in the history of the Near East, particularly in the rise of the Medo-Persian Empire. This inclusion in Japheth's lineage emphasizes the historical and cultural impact of his descendants.

Javan
Javan is the Hebrew name (יָוָן) for the Greeks, specifically the Ionians. This connection is significant as it links the biblical narrative to the broader history of Western civilization. The Greeks' contributions to philosophy, politics, and culture are well-documented, and their mention here underscores the interconnectedness of biblical and secular history.

Tubal
Tubal is often associated with a people living in the region of modern-day Turkey. The Hebrew "Tubal" (תּוּבַל) may be related to the Tabali, an ancient Anatolian group. This reference highlights the spread of Japheth's descendants into Asia Minor, a region of significant historical and biblical events.

Meshech
Meshech is linked to a people who lived in the area of modern-day Turkey and possibly the Caucasus. The Hebrew "Meshech" (מֶשֶׁךְ) is sometimes associated with the Mushki, an ancient group known from Assyrian records. This connection illustrates the diverse and widespread nature of Japheth's lineage.

Tiras
Tiras is traditionally associated with the Thracians, an ancient people of Southeast Europe. The Hebrew "Tiras" (תִּירָס) reflects a group known for their warrior culture and influence in the Balkans. This mention completes the list of Japheth's sons, emphasizing the broad geographical and cultural impact of his descendants across Europe and Asia.

The Oriental theory of political and even social communities refers each to a common ancestor. The Israelites are known as "sons of Israel," the Ammonites as "sons of Ammon" (Authorised version, "children"). In the same way, an Arab tribe is called. the "Beni Hassan" (sons of Hassan), and Assurbanipal styles his subjects "sons of Asshur." Sometimes a people is called "sons" of the land or city they inhabit; e.g., the Babylonians are styled "sons of Babel." The "sons of Japheth" are probably the fair Caucasian race.

(5) Gomer.--The Cimmerians of the Greek writers; called Gi-mir-ra-a-a in Assyrian inscriptions. Their country was Cappadocia, called Gamir by the ancient Armenians. The Arabic version has "Turkey."

Magog.--Ezekiel 38:2-3; Ezekiel 38:6 speaks of Gog, king of Magog, and suzerain of Tubal, Meshech, Gomer and the house of Togarmah. With the name Gog compare Gagu, king of Salii, mentioned in connection with Assurbanipal's campaign against the Manna-a. Magog appears to be a general name for the peoples north of Assyria, i.e., in Armenia.

Madai.--The Medes. 2Kings 17:6; Isaiah 13:17. Assyr., Ma-da-a-a. . . .