Book of Genesis - Chapter 5 - Verse 32

Genesis 5:32 records that Noah was five hundred years old when he became the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This verse marks a significant moment in the biblical narrative as it establishes the lineage of Noah, an important figure in the story of the Great Flood. The fact that Noah was already five hundred years old at the time of his sons' birth underscores the longevity of human life in the early chapters of Genesis. It also highlights the role of Noah as a patriarch who played a crucial part in the survival of living creatures during the catastrophic event of the flood. By providing this specific detail about Noah's age at the time of his sons' birth, the verse sets the stage for the continuation of the story and the eventual construction of the ark that would save Noah's family and pairs of animals from the impending deluge.

When examining the verse "And Noah was five hundred years old: and Noah begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth," it is important to consider the theological implications of the age of Noah at the time of his sons' births. In the context of the biblical narrative, the age of five hundred years is significant as it emphasizes the longevity of life in the early generations of humanity. This detail serves to underscore the importance of Noah as a central figure in the genealogy leading to the establishment of the covenant between God and humanity. Additionally, the names of Noah's sons - Shem, Ham, and Japheth - hold symbolic meaning in Hebrew. Shem means "name" or "fame," Ham means "hot" or "burnt," and Japheth means "may God enlarge." These meanings hint at the destinies and characteristics of Noah's descendants, illustrating the divine plan unfolding through generations. Overall, this verse showcases the intricate web of theological themes and symbolism woven throughout the biblical text, inviting readers to delve deeper into the mysteries and significance of each detail.