Etymology and Name Meaning:
The name Arphaxad (also spelled Arpachshad) is of uncertain origin and meaning. Some scholars suggest it may mean "healer" or "release," though the exact etymology remains debated.

Biblical References:
Arphaxad is a significant figure in the genealogies of the Bible, appearing primarily in the Book of Genesis. He is mentioned as a descendant of Noah, specifically as one of the sons of Shem. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following references:

· Genesis 10:22-24 : "The sons of Shem: Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. The sons of Aram: Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash. Arphaxad was the father of Shelah, and Shelah was the father of Eber."

· Genesis 11:10-13 : "This is the account of Shem. Two years after the flood, when Shem was 100 years old, he became the father of Arphaxad. And after he had become the father of Arphaxad, Shem lived 500 years and had other sons and daughters. When Arphaxad was 35 years old, he became the father of Shelah."

· 1 Chronicles 1:17-18 : "The sons of Shem: Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, Aram, Uz, Hul, Gether, and Meshech. Arphaxad was the father of Shelah, and Shelah was the father of Eber."

· Luke 3:36 : In the genealogy of Jesus, Arphaxad is listed as an ancestor: "the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech."

Genealogical Significance:
Arphaxad is a pivotal link in the genealogical line from Noah to Abraham, making him an ancestor of the Israelites and, by extension, a forebear of Jesus Christ. His lineage is crucial for understanding the biblical narrative of God's covenantal promises, which are traced through the line of Shem to Abraham and ultimately to Christ.

Historical and Theological Context:
Arphaxad's placement in the genealogies underscores the continuity of God's plan through specific familial lines. The genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's faithfulness to His promises. Arphaxad's descendants, including Eber, are traditionally associated with the origins of the Hebrew people, as Eber is often linked to the term "Hebrew."

Cultural and Geographical Associations:
While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Arphaxad's life or the specific region he inhabited, his descendants are associated with the broader Mesopotamian region. This area is significant in biblical history as the cradle of early post-flood civilization and the setting for many of the patriarchal narratives.

Legacy and Influence:
Arphaxad's legacy is primarily carried through his descendants, who play critical roles in the unfolding biblical account. His mention in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke highlights the importance of his lineage in the fulfillment of messianic prophecies. As such, Arphaxad is a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenantal relationships with humanity, as seen through the continuity of his family line.Arphax'ad (1 Occurrence)

Luke 3:36
the 'son' of Salah, the 'son' of Cainan, the 'son' of Arphaxad, the 'son' of Shem, the 'son' of Noah, the 'son' of Lamech,
(See RSV)

Arphax'ad (1 Occurrence)
Arphax'ad. Arphaxad, Arphax'ad. Arrange . Multi-Version Concordance
Arphax'ad (1 Occurrence). Luke 3:36 the 'son' of Salah, the ...
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Arphaxad (10 Occurrences)

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Arrange (19 Occurrences)

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