Shem, one of the three sons of Noah, is a significant figure in biblical history, particularly in the context of the blessings pronounced by Noah after the flood. The account of Shem's blessing is found in Genesis 9:26-27. After the flood, Noah became a man of the soil and planted a vineyard. Following an incident where Noah became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent, his son Ham saw his father's nakedness and told his two brothers outside. Shem and Japheth, however, took a garment, walked backward, and covered their father's nakedness, showing respect and honor.

In response to this incident, Noah pronounced blessings and curses upon his sons. Shem's blessing is recorded as follows: "Blessed be the LORD, the God of Shem! May Canaan be the servant of Shem" (Genesis 9:26). This blessing is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it acknowledges the LORD as the God of Shem, indicating a special relationship between Shem and the divine. This relationship is foundational for the lineage of Shem, which is traditionally understood to include the Semitic peoples, notably the Israelites, through whom the covenantal promises and the Messiah would come.

The blessing also implies a position of prominence and spiritual leadership for Shem's descendants. The subjugation of Canaan, the son of Ham, to Shem's line is seen as a prophetic declaration of the future interactions between these peoples. The blessing of Shem is thus a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, setting the stage for the Abrahamic covenant and the eventual coming of Christ.

Noah's Death

Noah, a righteous man and the central human figure in the narrative of the Great Flood, lived a total of 950 years. His life and actions are chronicled in Genesis 5-9, where he is depicted as a man who "walked with God" (Genesis 6:9) and found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Noah's obedience to God's command to build the ark and his faithfulness during the flood are key elements of his legacy.

The account of Noah's death is succinctly recorded in Genesis 9:28-29: "After the flood, Noah lived 350 years. So Noah lived a total of 950 years, and then he died" . Noah's long life, which spanned both the antediluvian and postdiluvian worlds, marks him as a bridge between two distinct eras in biblical history. His death signifies the end of an epoch and the beginning of a new chapter in the human account, as his descendants repopulate the earth and spread across the globe.

Noah's legacy is profound, as he is remembered not only for his role in the preservation of humanity and the animal kingdom during the flood but also for his faith and righteousness. His life serves as a testament to the importance of obedience to God and the impact of one man's faithfulness on the course of history. Noah's account is a reminder of God's judgment and mercy, as well as the enduring hope found in His promises.