The term "Postdiluvian" refers to the period following the Great Flood described in the Book of Genesis. This era marks a significant phase in biblical history, as it encompasses the repopulation of the earth and the establishment of nations. The chronology of this period is primarily derived from genealogical records and historical narratives found in the Scriptures.

Genealogical Records

The primary source for postdiluvian chronology is found in Genesis 10 and 11, which detail the generations following Noah. Genesis 10, often referred to as the "Table of Nations," lists the descendants of Noah's three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This chapter provides a framework for understanding the spread of humanity and the formation of various ethnic groups and nations.

Genesis 11 continues with the genealogy from Shem to Abram (later Abraham), providing specific ages and years. This genealogy is crucial for constructing a timeline of events and understanding the lineage through which God's covenant promises would be fulfilled. According to Genesis 11:10-26 , the genealogy from Shem to Abram includes notable figures such as Arphaxad, Shelah, Eber, Peleg, Reu, Serug, Nahor, and Terah.

Key Events and Developments

1. The Tower of Babel: One of the significant events in postdiluvian history is the construction of the Tower of Babel, as recorded in Genesis 11:1-9. Humanity, speaking a single language, sought to build a city and a tower reaching the heavens. In response to their pride and disobedience, God confused their language, causing them to scatter across the earth. This event explains the origin of diverse languages and cultures.

2. The Call of Abram: The postdiluvian period also includes God's call to Abram, a pivotal moment in biblical history. Genesis 12:1-3 records God's command to Abram to leave his country and go to a land that He would show him. God promised to make Abram a great nation, bless him, and make his name great. This covenant established Abram as the patriarch of the Israelites and set the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

3. The Establishment of Nations: The descendants of Noah's sons spread out and established various nations. Genesis 10 provides a detailed account of these nations, including the descendants of Japheth, who settled in the coastlands; the descendants of Ham, who established cities such as Babylon and Nineveh; and the descendants of Shem, from whom the Semitic peoples, including the Israelites, arose.

Chronological Considerations

The postdiluvian chronology is often a subject of debate among scholars, particularly regarding the interpretation of genealogical data. The ages and timelines provided in Genesis are used to estimate the time elapsed between the Flood and subsequent events. Conservative interpretations typically adhere to a literal reading of the genealogies, resulting in a relatively short timespan between the Flood and the call of Abram.

Theological Implications

The postdiluvian period is significant for its theological implications. It demonstrates God's continued involvement in human history, His judgment against sin, and His grace in preserving a remnant through whom He would fulfill His promises. The scattering at Babel and the call of Abram highlight God's sovereignty and His plan to bless all nations through the descendants of Abraham.

In summary, the postdiluvian chronology provides a framework for understanding the early history of humanity after the Flood, the development of nations, and the unfolding of God's covenantal promises. The genealogies and narratives in Genesis serve as foundational elements for the biblical account of human history and God's redemptive work.Postdiluvian Chronology

We have already seen that it was 1656 years from the creation of Adam to the flood. Now in order to find how long it was from the flood To the death of Terah, we must add to the two years from the flood to The birth of Arphaxad, the ages of the patriarchs--Arphaxad, Salah, Eber, Peleg, Reu, Serug, Nahor--at the births of their first sons and To this the years that Terah lived, and we have four hundred Twenty-seven years (Genesis 11:10-32).

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