Genesis 9:19

These three were the sons of Noah, and from them the whole earth was populated.

Study Bible

These three
The phrase "These three" refers specifically to the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. In the Hebrew text, the word for "three" is "שְׁלֹשָׁה" (sheloshah), emphasizing the completeness and sufficiency of Noah's sons in fulfilling God's command to repopulate the earth. The number three often symbolizes divine wholeness and completeness in the Bible, suggesting that through these three individuals, God's plan for humanity's continuation and diversity would be perfectly executed.

were the sons of Noah
The term "sons of Noah" highlights the direct lineage and covenantal relationship between Noah and his descendants. In Hebrew, "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which not only indicates biological offspring but also implies a continuation of Noah's legacy and righteousness. Noah, a man who found favor in God's eyes, serves as a patriarchal figure whose faithfulness and obedience are to be mirrored by his sons. This phrase underscores the importance of familial lines in the biblical narrative, where blessings and responsibilities are passed down through generations.

and from them
The phrase "and from them" signifies the origin and dispersion of all post-flood humanity. The Hebrew preposition "מִן" (min) indicates source or origin, pointing to the sons of Noah as the starting point for the repopulation of the earth. This phrase sets the stage for the unfolding of the Table of Nations in Genesis 10, where the descendants of Shem, Ham, and Japheth spread across the earth, forming the various nations and peoples known to the ancient world.

the whole earth
"The whole earth" in Hebrew is "כָּל הָאָרֶץ" (kol ha'aretz), emphasizing the totality and universality of the human population that would arise from Noah's sons. This phrase reflects the biblical worldview that all humanity shares a common ancestry, reinforcing the unity and interconnectedness of all people. It also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the entire world, as He orchestrates the movements and settlements of nations according to His divine plan.

was populated
The phrase "was populated" comes from the Hebrew verb "נָפַץ" (nafatz), meaning to scatter or spread out. This verb conveys the idea of growth, expansion, and fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 9:1). It suggests a dynamic process of human proliferation and cultural development, as the descendants of Noah spread across the earth, establishing civilizations and fulfilling their God-given mandate to steward creation. This phrase encapsulates the hope and promise of new beginnings after the flood, as humanity embarks on a renewed journey under God's providential care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to survive the flood and repopulate the earth. He is a central figure in the account of Genesis, representing obedience and faithfulness.

2. Shem, Ham, and Japheth
The three sons of Noah. They are significant as the progenitors of the nations that would arise after the flood. Each son represents a different lineage and set of nations.

3. The Flood
A cataclysmic event that God used to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness. It serves as a backdrop to the repopulation of the earth through Noah's family.

4. The Earth
Refers to the entire world that was to be repopulated by Noah's descendants. This highlights the universality of God's plan for humanity.

5. Repopulation
The event of the earth being filled again with people through the descendants of Noah's sons, emphasizing God's covenant and promise to never again destroy the earth with a flood.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
God orchestrates the events of history, including the repopulation of the earth, to fulfill His divine purposes.

Unity of Humanity
All nations and peoples trace their origins back to Noah's family, emphasizing the unity and equality of all humans before God.

Faithfulness and Obedience
Noah's obedience led to the preservation and continuation of humanity. Our faithfulness can have far-reaching impacts.

God's Covenant and Promises
The repopulation of the earth is a testament to God's faithfulness to His promises, reminding us to trust in His word.

The Importance of Family
The role of Noah's sons in repopulating the earth highlights the significance of family in God's plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the repopulation of the earth through Noah's sons demonstrate God's sovereignty and plan for humanity?

2. In what ways does the unity of humanity, as seen in Genesis 9:19, challenge us to view others in light of God's creation?

3. How can Noah's faithfulness and obedience inspire us in our daily walk with God?

4. What are some modern-day implications of God's covenant promises, as seen in the aftermath of the flood?

5. How can we apply the importance of family, as demonstrated by Noah's sons, in our own lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 10
This chapter provides the genealogies of Noah's sons, detailing the nations that emerged from each lineage, fulfilling the statement in Genesis 9:19.

Acts 17:26
This verse speaks to the unity of humanity, created from one man, which echoes the repopulation of the earth from Noah's family.

1 Peter 3:20
References Noah and the flood, drawing a parallel to salvation and God's patience, which connects to the new beginning for humanity post-flood.