Book of Genesis - Chapter 10 - Verse 4

Genesis 10:4 mentions the sons of Javan, who was a descendant of Noah through his son Japheth. The verse lists Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim as the sons of Javan. Elishah is believed to have settled in Cyprus, while Tarshish is associated with a city known for its maritime trade, possibly located in modern-day Spain. Kittim is often associated with the island of Cyprus or regions in the Mediterranean, and Dodanim is thought to have inhabited a coastal area near the Mediterranean Sea. The mention of these sons of Javan provides insight into the spread of human civilization after the great flood according to biblical genealogy. It highlights the diversity of the descendants of Noah and the various regions they settled in, contributing to the development of ancient cultures and societies.

In this verse from Genesis 10:4, the names mentioned are the sons of Javan, who was the son of Japheth and one of Noah's grandsons. The mention of Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Javan, and although specific details are sparse in the Bible, some scholars have attempted to identify these names with geographical locations or tribes. For example, Tarshish is often associated with a location known for its wealth and ships, possibly referring to a region in Spain or the Mediterranean. Kittim has been linked with Cyprus or regions in the Mediterranean as well. Elishah and Dodanim are less certain, with various interpretations pointing towards areas such as Greece, Italy, or other Mediterranean territories. Some theological interpretations focus on the scattering of nations from Noah's descendants and how these names represent various peoples and tribes emerging from the dispersion. Overall, this verse serves as a starting point for delving into historical and theological interpretations of the descendants of Javan and their significance in biblical genealogy.