Shem, Ham, and Japheth are the three sons of Noah, who play a significant role in the biblical narrative, particularly in the account of the Great Flood and the subsequent repopulation of the earth. Their account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 6 through 10.

Shem

Shem is often considered the eldest of Noah's sons, although the order of their birth is not explicitly stated in the Bible. He is traditionally associated with the Semitic peoples, including the Israelites, and is regarded as the ancestor of several significant biblical figures. Genesis 10:21 states, "And sons were also born to Shem, the older brother of Japheth; Shem was the forefather of all the sons of Eber." The descendants of Shem are listed in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10, which includes Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. Shem's lineage is particularly important as it leads to Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites, and ultimately to Jesus Christ, according to the genealogies presented in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Ham

Ham is often considered the youngest of Noah's sons. He is the father of several nations that are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. Genesis 10:6-7 lists his sons as Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan. The descendants of Ham are traditionally associated with regions in Africa and the Near East. A significant event involving Ham is recorded in Genesis 9:20-25, where Ham sees his father Noah's nakedness and tells his two brothers outside. As a result, Noah curses Ham's son Canaan, saying, "Cursed be Canaan! A servant of servants shall he be to his brothers" (Genesis 9:25). This passage has been the subject of much interpretation and discussion throughout history.

Japheth

Japheth is often considered the middle son of Noah. His descendants are associated with the peoples of Europe and parts of Asia. Genesis 10:2-5 lists his sons as Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. The Table of Nations describes the spread of Japheth's descendants, stating, "From these, the coastlands of the nations spread out into their lands, each with its own language, by their clans within their nations" (Genesis 10:5). Japheth is often associated with the expansion and diversification of human populations after the Flood.

The Role in the Flood Narrative

Shem, Ham, and Japheth are central figures in the narrative of the Great Flood. According to Genesis 6:10, "Noah had three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth." They, along with their wives, were saved from the Flood by entering the ark with Noah and his wife. After the Flood, God blessed Noah and his sons, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth" (Genesis 9:1). This blessing underscores their role in the repopulation of the earth and the establishment of post-Flood civilizations.

The Table of Nations

The genealogies of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, as recorded in Genesis 10, are collectively known as the Table of Nations. This passage outlines the origins of various peoples and nations, providing a framework for understanding the distribution of human populations in the ancient world. The Table of Nations is significant for its theological implications, emphasizing the unity and diversity of humanity under God's providence.

In summary, Shem, Ham, and Japheth are foundational figures in the biblical account of human history, representing the origins of many nations and peoples. Their account highlights themes of divine judgment, mercy, and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.