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Book of Genesis - Chapter 11 - Verse 12

11:12
And Arphaxad lived five and thirty years, and begat Salah:

Meaning

According to the book of Genesis, chapter 11, verse 12, the verse "And Arphaxad lived five and thirty years, and begat Salah" signifies the lineage of Arphaxad, who is believed to be one of the descendants of Noah. In this verse, it is noted that Arphaxad was thirty-five years old when he bore a son named Salah. This genealogy is significant as it traces the line of descendants from Shem, one of Noah's sons, and provides a historical record of the generations following the Great Flood. The mentioning of Arphaxad and Salah in the Bible serves to connect the narratives of the Old Testament and highlight the continuation of God's plan for humanity through the generations. It reminds readers of the importance of family and the passing down of traditions and beliefs from one generation to the next. Overall, the verse serves as a piece of the larger tapestry of biblical history, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people throughout time.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Genesis, the genealogy of the descendants of Noah is being traced, specifically focusing on the line of Shem. Arphaxad, the son of Shem, is said to have lived for thirty-five years before fathering Salah. This genealogy is important in understanding the lineage of key figures in biblical history and helps to establish a timeline of events. The name Arphaxad has been the subject of various interpretations and studies, with some scholars suggesting that it may be linked to the Assyrian king known as Arphaxad. Additionally, the name Salah means "sprout" or "shoot" in Hebrew, signifying the continuation and growth of the lineage. The theological significance of this verse lies in the continuity of God's plan for humanity, as each generation plays a role in His unfolding story. By examining the meanings of the names and considering the context within the larger biblical narrative, we can glean insights into the spiritual symbolism and lessons that can be derived from this simple yet profound verse.

American Standard Version

And Arpachshad lived five and thirty years, and begat Shelah:
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