Mesech is a name that appears in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament, and is often associated with the descendants of Japheth, one of Noah's sons. In the Table of Nations found in Genesis 10, Mesech is listed as one of the sons of Japheth: "The sons of Japheth: Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras" (Genesis 10:2). This genealogical listing suggests that Mesech was a patriarch of a group of people or a tribe.

The name Mesech is also mentioned in the context of prophecy and judgment. In Ezekiel 38, Mesech is included in the prophecy against Gog, a leader from the land of Magog: "Son of man, set your face against Gog of the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal. Prophesy against him" (Ezekiel 38:2). This passage is part of a larger eschatological narrative concerning the end times and the nations that will rise against Israel.

In Psalm 120, Mesech is used metaphorically to describe a place of distress and alienation: "Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!" (Psalm 120:5). Here, Mesech is depicted as a distant and hostile place, symbolizing the psalmist's sense of being surrounded by adversaries.

Historically, Mesech is often identified with the Mushki, an ancient people who lived in the region of Anatolia, corresponding to modern-day Turkey. This identification is based on historical and archaeological evidence, as well as the geographical context provided in the biblical text.

Kedar

Kedar is a name that appears in the Bible as one of the sons of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. In Genesis 25, Kedar is listed among the twelve sons of Ishmael: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam" (Genesis 25:13). As a descendant of Ishmael, Kedar is considered one of the patriarchs of the Arab tribes.

The descendants of Kedar are frequently mentioned in the Bible as a nomadic people known for their skill in archery and their pastoral lifestyle. In Isaiah 21, the prophet speaks of the "glory of Kedar" being diminished: "Within one year, as a hired worker would count it, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end" (Isaiah 21:16). This prophecy indicates the prominence and eventual decline of Kedar's influence.

Kedar is also referenced in the context of trade and commerce. In Ezekiel 27, the merchants of Kedar are noted for their trade in lambs, rams, and goats: "Arabia and all the princes of Kedar were your customers, trading in lambs, rams, and goats" (Ezekiel 27:21). This highlights the economic interactions between Kedar and other nations.

In Psalm 120, Kedar is mentioned alongside Mesech as a place of dwelling for the psalmist, symbolizing a sense of exile and longing for peace: "Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!" (Psalm 120:5). This usage underscores the theme of alienation and the desire for deliverance from hostile surroundings.

Historically, Kedar is associated with the nomadic tribes of the Arabian Peninsula, and their presence is attested in various ancient inscriptions and records. The people of Kedar played a significant role in the cultural and economic exchanges of the ancient Near East.