MPV Commentary

1. The sons of Noah - The historian has arranged this list in a way that doesn't follow birth order. The descendants of Japheth are listed first, followed by those of Ham, even though Shem is described as the younger son (Ge 10:21). In fact, Shem was the older brother of Japheth.

Generations and nations - This list likely includes only the main nations that existed during Moses' time. Although it mentions the descendants of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, not all their descendants are included. The names given often indicate tribes or nations, ending in "-ite" (e.g., "Canaanite").

5. The isles of the Gentiles - This phrase refers to countries accessible by sea, such as Europe, Asia Minor, and regions east of the Black Sea. These areas were where Japheth's descendants first settled.

6. The sons of Ham migrated southward, establishing their settlements in Cush (Arabia), Canaan (the land known by that name), and Mizraim (Egypt). It is believed that Noah himself accompanied his son Ham to Egypt, which is why it was called "the land of Ham" (Ps 105:23, 27; 106:22).

8. Nimrod - He gained fame for his bravery in hunting wild beasts and earned a reputation as a leader. By providing useful services, he secured the gratitude of the people and established the first kingdom in the world.

10. The beginning of his kingdom - This early kingdom was relatively small, with towns that served as fortified settlements.

11. From there, Nimrod led an army into Assyria (Ge 10:11) and founded Nineveh, a city opposite modern-day Mosul on the Tigris River. He also established other nearby cities. This invasion of Assyria marked a rebellion against God's original plan for humanity.

21. Shem - The historian highlights him as "the father of Eber," the ancestor of the Hebrews.

23. Aram - In the division of the earth, the territories of Armenia, Mesopotamia, and Syria were allocated to his descendants.

24. Arphaxad - His posterity settled in the valley of Shinar, near the Tigris River in southern Mesopotamia, including the region known as Eden.

25. Peleg - During his lifetime, the earth was divided (Ge 11:10-16). After the flood, Noah's descendants had settled and enjoyed the undivided land. However, according to divine instruction, possibly through Eber, who was known for his piety or prophetic character, the earth was divided, and Peleg's name commemorated this event.

32. These are the families of the sons of Noah - The historian presents a clear and orderly division of the nations, with each nation ranked according to its families and territories assigned accordingly.