Book of Genesis - Chapter 11 - Verse 21
Meaning
In the book of Genesis, this verse describes the lineage of Reu, the son of Peleg and the great-grandson of Noah. The verse indicates the length of Reu's life after he fathered his son Serug. It mentions that Reu lived for another 207 years after the birth of Serug, during which time he had other sons and daughters. This detail may seem like a simple genealogical record, but it serves a deeper purpose in highlighting the longevity of life in the early generations after the Great Flood. It also emphasizes the importance of family and continuity of lineage in ancient times. By providing these specific chronological details, the verse contributes to the overall narrative of the book of Genesis, tracing the genealogy of important figures in the Bible and setting the stage for future events and characters.
Theological Overview
In the genealogy of the patriarchs in the book of Genesis, the verse 'And Reu lived after he begat Serug two hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters.' might seem like a straightforward list of factual information. However, a theological interpretation reveals deeper meanings within the passage. Reu's long life after the birth of his son Serug could signify the continuation of his lineage and the fulfillment of God's promise to Adam and Eve to multiply and fill the earth. The mention of sons and daughters emphasizes the importance of family and legacy in biblical narratives. Furthermore, a word study of 'lived' in the original Hebrew could shed light on the concept of life and vitality in the context of the patriarchs' stories, highlighting the significance of each individual's existence within the larger tapestry of God's plan for humanity.