Topical Encyclopedia Shem, one of the three sons of Noah, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly noted for his respectful and honorable conduct towards his father. The account of Shem's filial conduct is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, which provides insight into his character and the blessings that followed his actions.Biblical Account The most notable incident highlighting Shem's filial conduct occurs in Genesis 9:20-27. After the flood, Noah became a man of the soil and planted a vineyard. He drank some of the wine, became drunk, and lay uncovered inside his tent. Ham, the father of Canaan, saw his father's nakedness and told his two brothers outside. In contrast to Ham's disrespectful behavior, Shem, along with his brother Japheth, took a garment, walked backward, and covered their father's nakedness. Their faces were turned away so that they would not see their father's nakedness. Genesis 9:23 states, "Then Shem and Japheth took a garment, placed it across their shoulders, and walking backward, they covered their father’s nakedness. Their faces were turned away, and they did not see their father’s nakedness." Significance of Shem's Conduct Shem's actions demonstrate a deep respect for his father and an adherence to the cultural and moral standards of honoring one's parents. In the ancient Near Eastern context, filial piety was a highly valued virtue, and Shem's conduct exemplifies this ideal. By covering Noah without looking upon his nakedness, Shem showed a commitment to preserving his father's dignity and honor. Blessings and Legacy Noah's response to the actions of his sons further underscores the importance of Shem's conduct. Upon awakening and learning what had transpired, Noah pronounced a curse on Canaan, the son of Ham, while blessing Shem and Japheth. Genesis 9:26-27 records Noah's blessing: "He also said, 'Blessed be the LORD, the God of Shem! May Canaan be the servant of Shem. May God expand the territory of Japheth; may he dwell in the tents of Shem, and may Canaan be his servant.'" The blessing upon Shem is significant, as it not only honors his respectful behavior but also establishes a covenantal relationship with the LORD, the God of Shem. This blessing foreshadows the future role of Shem's descendants in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Shem is traditionally considered the ancestor of the Semitic peoples, including the Israelites, through whom the Messiah would eventually come. Theological Implications Shem's filial conduct is often viewed as a model of righteousness and respect for divine order. His actions reflect a heart aligned with God's values, emphasizing the importance of honoring one's parents as commanded in the Decalogue (Exodus 20:12). The narrative of Shem serves as a reminder of the blessings that flow from obedience and respect for God's established authority structures within the family. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 9:23-27And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid it on both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces were backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter ix The Book of Jubilees Godly Fear and Its Goodly Consequence The Three Parables of the Gospel: of the Recovery of the Lost - of ... Resources Who was Shem in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the biblical account of Shem, Ham, and Japheth? | 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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