Topical Encyclopedia Ophir is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the descendants of Shem, the son of Noah. He is identified as one of the sons of Joktan, who was a descendant of Shem through Eber. The lineage of Joktan is significant as it represents the early post-Flood generations that spread out and populated various regions. Ophir's mention in the genealogical records highlights his importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the lands and wealth associated with his name.Genealogical Context Ophir is listed among the sons of Joktan in the Book of Genesis. The relevant passage reads: "Joktan was the father of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab. All these were the sons of Joktan" (Genesis 10:26-29). This genealogy is repeated in the First Book of Chronicles: "Joktan was the father of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab. All these were the sons of Joktan" (1 Chronicles 1:20-23). These passages place Ophir within the broader context of the Table of Nations, which outlines the dispersion of peoples and the establishment of various tribes and regions following the Flood. The Land of Ophir The name Ophir is most famously associated with a region renowned for its wealth, particularly its gold. The biblical texts frequently mention the "gold of Ophir," which was highly prized for its purity and quality. The exact location of the land of Ophir has been the subject of much speculation and debate among scholars and historians. Various theories suggest locations ranging from the Arabian Peninsula to parts of Africa or even the Indian subcontinent. Despite the uncertainty of its precise location, the wealth of Ophir is well-documented in the biblical narrative. Biblical References to Ophir's Wealth The wealth of Ophir is highlighted in several passages throughout the Bible. In the account of King Solomon's reign, Ophir is noted as a source of immense riches. The Book of Kings records: "They went to Ophir and brought back 420 talents of gold, which they delivered to Solomon" (1 Kings 9:28). Similarly, the Book of Chronicles states: "They sailed to Ophir, brought back 450 talents of gold, and delivered it to King Solomon" (2 Chronicles 8:18). These references underscore the significance of Ophir as a land of great economic importance during the time of Solomon. Symbolism and Legacy In addition to its literal wealth, the gold of Ophir carries symbolic meaning in the biblical text. It is often used as a metaphor for purity and value. For instance, the Book of Job uses the gold of Ophir to illustrate the incomparable worth of wisdom: "It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire" (Job 28:16). This metaphorical use of Ophir's gold emphasizes the enduring legacy of Ophir as a symbol of unparalleled excellence and divine blessing. Ophir, as a son of Joktan, represents both a historical figure within the genealogical records and a symbol of prosperity and divine favor. His association with a land of immense wealth has captured the imagination of generations, making Ophir a significant topic of study and reflection in biblical scholarship. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:29And Ophir, and Havilah, and Jobab: all these were the sons of Joktan. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:23 Strong's Hebrew 211. Ophir -- a son of Joktan, also his desc., also a region from ...... Or (shortened) pophiyr {o-feer'}; and fowphir {o- feer'}; of uncertain derivation; Ophir, the name of a son of Joktan, and of a gold region in the East -- Ophir ... /hebrew/211.htm - 6k Library Chapter x The Nations of the South-East [Endnotes] An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who are Semites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Solomon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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