Topical Encyclopedia Cainan, also referred to as Kenan in some translations, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is noted as the son of Arphaxad and the father of Shelah. The mention of Cainan is somewhat unique due to its presence in certain genealogical records and absence in others, leading to discussions among biblical scholars regarding textual variations and interpretations.Genealogical Context Cainan is primarily mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. In Luke 3:35-36 , the genealogy lists, "the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech." This inclusion in the genealogy of Christ highlights the significance of Cainan within the biblical narrative, as it traces the lineage from Adam to Jesus. Textual Variations The mention of Cainan as the son of Arphaxad is not found in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible, which forms the basis for most Old Testament translations. Instead, it appears in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, which includes Cainan in the genealogical record of Genesis 10 and 11. This discrepancy has led to various interpretations and discussions regarding the textual transmission and the reliability of different manuscript traditions. Theological Implications The presence of Cainan in the genealogy of Jesus as recorded in Luke underscores the importance of genealogical records in establishing the fulfillment of messianic prophecies. The inclusion of Cainan serves to bridge the genealogical gap between Arphaxad and Shelah, ensuring a complete lineage from Noah to Abraham and ultimately to Jesus Christ. This continuity is crucial for understanding the fulfillment of God's promises through the generations. Historical and Cultural Context In the broader historical and cultural context, genealogies in the Bible serve not only as records of ancestry but also as theological affirmations of God's covenantal faithfulness. The mention of Cainan, despite textual variations, reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of preserving lineage and heritage, which was vital for identity and inheritance. Conclusion While the figure of Cainan may not be as prominent as other biblical patriarchs, his inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the meticulous care with which the biblical authors preserved the lineage of the Messiah. The textual variations surrounding his mention invite further study and reflection on the transmission of biblical texts and the providence of God in preserving His Word through history. Nave's Topical Index Luke 3:36Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Nave's Topical Index Greek 742. Arphaxad -- Arphaxad, a son of Shem and an ancestor of Christ ... Indeclinable Transliteration: Arphaxad Phonetic Spelling: (ar-fax-ad') Short Definition: Arphaxad Definition: Arphaxad, son of Shem, and father of Cainan. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/742.htm - 6k Library Genealogy According to Luke. C. The Genealogy of Jesus. Ch. 3:23-38 Chronology from Adam. Of the Genealogy of Shem, in Whose Line the City of God is ... Of the Generations of the Three Sons of Noah. The Book of Jubilees Miller's views on the Second Coming of Christ. The Pentateuch. An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Why did God condone such terrible violence in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the cave of Machpelah? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that “the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure” (Genesis 15:16)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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