Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Lineage and Reference Jerah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Book of Genesis. He is identified as one of the sons of Joktan, who was a descendant of Shem, the son of Noah. The genealogical account places Jerah within the Table of Nations, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons after the Flood. The specific reference to Jerah can be found in Genesis 10:26: "Joktan became the father of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah," (Berean Standard Bible). Historical and Geographical Context Jerah's mention in the genealogical records suggests a connection to the early post-Flood civilizations. Joktan's descendants are traditionally associated with the regions in the southern Arabian Peninsula. The name "Jerah" itself is thought to be linked to the Hebrew word for "moon" or "month," which may imply a connection to a lunar calendar or a region where lunar worship was prevalent. Cultural and Theological Significance The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through specific lineages. Jerah, as a descendant of Shem, is part of the Semitic line, which holds particular significance in biblical history as it leads to the patriarch Abraham and, ultimately, to the nation of Israel. The inclusion of Jerah in the genealogical record underscores the diversity and spread of humanity as ordained by God after the Flood. Interpretation and Legacy From a conservative Christian perspective, the genealogies, including the mention of Jerah, are viewed as literal historical accounts that affirm the accuracy and reliability of Scripture. They provide insight into the early human family and the dispersion of peoples and cultures. Jerah's place in the genealogy of Joktan highlights the interconnectedness of the human family and the fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" (Genesis 9:1). Related Biblical References In addition to Genesis 10:26, Jerah is also mentioned in the parallel genealogical account in 1 Chronicles 1:20: "Joktan was the father of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah," . This repetition in the Chronicles underscores the importance of these genealogies in the biblical narrative and their role in tracing the lineage of significant biblical figures. Conclusion While Jerah himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogies serves as a testament to the breadth of God's creation and the unfolding of His divine plan through the generations. The genealogical records, including the mention of Jerah, provide a framework for understanding the origins and spread of the nations as recorded in Scripture. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:26And Joktan begat Almodad, and Sheleph, and Hazarmaveth, and Jerah, Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:20 Strong's Hebrew 3392. Yerach -- a son of Joktan, also his desc.... Definition: Jerah. Word Origin from the same as yareach Definition a son of Joktan, also his desc. NASB Word Usage Jerah (2). Jerah. The ... /hebrew/3392.htm - 6k Library Chapter x [Endnotes] An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who are Semites? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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