The descendants of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—are foundational to understanding the genealogical and ethnological divisions of the post-flood world as described in the Bible. According to Genesis 10, often referred to as the Table of Nations, these three sons of Noah became the progenitors of the nations that spread across the earth after the flood.

Shem

Shem is often associated with the Semitic peoples, and his lineage is considered significant in biblical history due to its connection to the Hebrew people and, ultimately, to Jesus Christ. Genesis 10:21-31 outlines the descendants of Shem, including Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. Arphaxad is particularly notable as he is an ancestor of Eber, from whom the term "Hebrew" is derived. The line of Shem is further detailed in Genesis 11, leading to Abram (later Abraham), a central figure in the biblical narrative.

Ham

Ham is traditionally linked to the peoples of Africa and parts of the Near East. His descendants, as listed in Genesis 10:6-20, include Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan. Cush is associated with regions in Africa, while Mizraim is often identified with Egypt. The Canaanites, descendants of Canaan, are frequently mentioned in the Bible as inhabitants of the land promised to Abraham's descendants. The narrative of Ham's descendants is marked by the account of the curse of Canaan in Genesis 9:25, which has been historically interpreted in various ways.

Japheth

Japheth is considered the ancestor of many Indo-European peoples. Genesis 10:2-5 lists his sons as Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. These names are often associated with regions and peoples in Europe and Asia Minor. For instance, Javan is linked to the Greeks, while Madai is associated with the Medes. The descendants of Japheth are described as spreading out over the "islands of the nations" (Genesis 10:5), indicating a wide geographical dispersion.

Theological Significance

The genealogies of Noah's sons are not merely historical records but carry theological significance. They demonstrate the fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" (Genesis 9:1). Furthermore, these genealogies set the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the line of Shem, leading to the calling of Abraham and the establishment of Israel as God's chosen people.

The Table of Nations in Genesis 10 serves as a framework for understanding the origins of different peoples and languages, which is further elaborated in the account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. This dispersion of nations and languages underscores the biblical theme of unity and diversity within God's creation, ultimately pointing to the future gathering of all nations in worship of the one true God.