Topical Encyclopedia Eber is a significant figure in the genealogical records of the Bible, often regarded as the probable founder of the Hebrew race. His name is associated with the term "Hebrew," which is used to describe the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Eber is mentioned in the genealogies of Genesis, where he is identified as a descendant of Shem, one of Noah's sons.Genealogical Background Eber is introduced in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons after the flood. Specifically, Eber is a descendant of Shem, through Arphaxad and Shelah. Genesis 10:21-25 states: "And sons were also born to Shem, the older brother of Japheth. Eber was one of Shem’s descendants. 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." Eber's lineage is further detailed in Genesis 11:14-17 : "When Shelah was 30 years old, he became the father of Eber. And after he had become the father of Eber, Shelah lived 403 years and had other sons and daughters. When Eber was 34 years old, he became the father of Peleg. And after he had become the father of Peleg, Eber lived 430 years and had other sons and daughters." Significance of Eber Eber's significance is underscored by the fact that his name is believed to be the root of the term "Hebrew." This term is first used in Genesis 14:13 to describe Abram (later Abraham): "Then a fugitive came and reported to Abram the Hebrew." The designation "Hebrew" is thought to denote a people who are "from beyond" or "those who cross over," possibly referring to their origins from beyond the Euphrates River. Prophecy Concerning Eber While there is no direct prophecy concerning Eber himself, the prophetic significance of his lineage is evident in the broader narrative of the Hebrew people. The descendants of Eber, through Peleg, eventually lead to Abraham, to whom God makes a covenant promising numerous descendants and a land for his people. This covenant is foundational to the identity and destiny of the Hebrew race. In Genesis 12:1-3 , God speaks to Abram, a descendant of Eber, saying: "Go from your country, your kindred, and your father’s house to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." This promise to Abram, a descendant of Eber, is seen as a pivotal moment in biblical history, marking the beginning of God's special relationship with the Hebrew people. Through Eber's lineage, the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob unfolds, ultimately leading to the establishment of the nation of Israel and the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the blessings promised to Abraham's descendants. Conclusion Eber's role as the probable founder of the Hebrew race is integral to understanding the genealogical and prophetic framework of the Bible. His place in the lineage leading to Abraham highlights the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the Hebrew people, a plan that has profound implications for the entire world. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 24:24And ships shall come from the coast of Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber, and he also shall perish for ever. Nave's Topical Index Library [Endnotes] An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who are Semites? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the Hebrews? | GotQuestions.org Who were the sons of Noah, and what happened to them and their descendants? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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