Seba: Son of Cush
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Seba is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Book of Genesis. He is identified as one of the sons of Cush, who was a son of Ham, the son of Noah. This places Seba within the Table of Nations, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons after the Flood. The relevant passage in Genesis 10:7 states: "The sons of Cush: Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabteca. And the sons of Raamah: Sheba and Dedan."

Genealogical Context

Seba's position in the genealogical record is significant as it connects him to the post-diluvian world and the repopulation of the earth. As a descendant of Cush, Seba is part of the Hamitic line, which is traditionally associated with the peoples of Africa and parts of the Near East. The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as a record of lineage but also as a means of explaining the origins of various nations and ethnic groups known to the ancient Israelites.

Geographical and Historical Associations

The name Seba is also associated with a region or people group, often identified with the ancient kingdom of Meroë, located in what is now Sudan. This association is supported by references in other parts of the Bible, such as Isaiah 43:3 , which states: "For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your place." This passage suggests that Seba was a significant and recognizable entity during the time of the prophet Isaiah, known for its wealth and resources.

Cultural and Theological Significance

In the biblical narrative, the descendants of Noah's sons are often seen as the progenitors of various nations, each with its own role in the unfolding account of God's interaction with humanity. Seba, as a son of Cush, is part of the broader narrative of the dispersion of peoples and the establishment of nations following the Tower of Babel incident. The mention of Seba alongside other nations in prophetic literature underscores the interconnectedness of these groups and their place in God's plan for history.

Biblical References and Interpretations

The mention of Seba in the genealogies and prophetic texts highlights the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of the biblical world. Conservative interpretations often emphasize the literal and historical aspects of these genealogies, viewing them as accurate records of human history as revealed by God. The inclusion of Seba in these records serves as a testament to the diversity and complexity of the ancient world, as well as the overarching sovereignty of God in guiding the destinies of nations.

In summary, Seba, as a son of Cush, represents both a historical figure and a geographical entity within the biblical narrative. His mention in the genealogies and prophetic literature reflects the broader themes of lineage, nationhood, and divine providence that permeate the Scriptures.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 10:7
And the sons of Cush; Seba, and Havilah, and Sabtah, and Raamah, and Sabtechah: and the sons of Raamah; Sheba, and Dedan.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:9
And the sons of Cush; Seba, and Havilah, and Sabta, and Raamah, and Sabtecha. And the sons of Raamah; Sheba, and Dedan.
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew
5434. Seba -- son of Cush, also his desc. and their land
... and their land NASB Word Usage Seba (4). Seba. Of foreign origin; Seba, a son of
Cush, and the country settled by him -- Seba. 5433b, 5434. Seba. 5435 . ...
/hebrew/5434.htm - 6k
Library

Chapter x
... Canaan. The son is the same one referred to in 9:22, 25. 7. And the sons
of Cush: Seba and Havilah and Sabtah and Raamah and Sabteca. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... "There are three that can bear record in heaven" (1 John 5:7-9). These three are
called "the Father, the Son [Word], and the Holy Spirit"; each of which is ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

[Endnotes]
... Peter, the fifth Philip, the ninth James the son of Alpheus ... Aram, "Cush, Mizraim,
Phut. Canaan, Salah, Uz, "Seba, Ludim, Sidon, Eber, Hul, "Havilah, Anamim, Heth ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/endnotes.htm

Resources
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Seba: A Region in Ethiopia
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