King James Version

What Does Genesis 10:15 Mean?

Genesis 10:15 in the King James Version says “And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth, Sidon: Heb. Tzidon” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth, Sidon: Heb. Tzidon”

Genesis 10:15 · KJV

Context

13

And Mizraim begat Ludim, and Anamim, and Lehabim, and Naphtuhim,

14

And Pathrusim, and Casluhim, (out of whom came Philistim,) and Caphtorim.

15

And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth, Sidon: Heb. Tzidon

16

And the Jebusite, and the Amorite, and the Girgasite,

17

And the Hivite, and the Arkite, and the Sinite,

Read Genesis 10 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth,... This passage belongs to the primeval history section (Genesis 1-11) which establishes universal truths about God, humanity, sin, and divine purposes before focusing on Abraham and Israel. These chapters answer fundamental questions about human origins, the spread of wickedness, God's judgment, and the preservation of a righteous remnant.

Recurring patterns emerge: human sin escalating from individual disobedience to societal corruption, divine patience followed by judgment, gracious preservation of a remnant, and covenant promises ensuring redemptive purposes continue. The genealogies connect historical persons, demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises (blessing and multiplication), and trace the line leading to Abraham and ultimately Christ.

Key theological themes in this section include: (1) sin's destructive progression affecting all humanity; (2) God's righteous judgment while preserving mercy; (3) human pride and autonomy opposing divine sovereignty; (4) cultural development as both blessing and potential idolatry; (5) God's sovereign plan advancing despite human rebellion. These narratives provide the necessary context for understanding God's calling of Abraham and the covenant promises through which all nations will be blessed.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The primeval history (Genesis 1-11) parallels ancient Near Eastern traditions including Sumerian King Lists (pre-flood longevity), Akkadian flood traditions (Atrahasis, Gilgamesh), and Mesopotamian city foundation myths. However, Genesis demythologizes these traditions, presenting monotheistic history rather than polytheistic mythology. The genealogies connecting Adam to Noah to Abraham provide historical framework absent in pagan myths.

Archaeological evidence confirms ancient urbanization (chapter 4's cities), agricultural development, metallurgy, and musical instruments emerging in Mesopotamia's early history. The Babel account reflects Mesopotamian ziggurat construction (stepped pyramid temples), particularly in Babylon. Linguistic diversity requiring explanation was obvious to ancient peoples, making the Babel narrative culturally relevant.

For Israel in covenant with Yahweh, these chapters explained their relationship to surrounding nations. All peoples descended from Noah, but Israel descended from Shem through Abraham—chosen for blessing all nations. The flood demonstrated God's justice and mercy: judging wickedness while preserving the righteous. This pattern would recur throughout Israel's history, assuring them that God's covenant faithfulness endures despite judgment on the wicked.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen our understanding of God's character and His relationship with creation?
  2. How can we apply the principles from this passage to contemporary challenges in family, work, or church?
  3. In what ways does this narrative foreshadow or typify aspects of Christ's redemptive work?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וּכְנַ֗עַן1 of 7

“And Canaan”

H3667

kenaan, a son a ham; also the country inhabited by him

יָלַ֛ד2 of 7

“begat”

H3205

to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage

אֶת3 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

צִידֹ֥ן4 of 7

“Sidon”

H6721

tsidon, the name of a son of canaan, and of a place in palestine

בְּכֹר֖וֹ5 of 7

“his firstborn”

H1060

first-born; hence, chief

וְאֶת6 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

חֵֽת׃7 of 7

“and Heth”

H2845

cheth, an indigenous canaanite

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Genesis 10:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Genesis 10:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 34:2-15Exodus 34:11Genesis 15:18-21Genesis 23:31 Chronicles 1:13Genesis 49:13

Test Your Knowledge

Genesis 10 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterGenesis Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Genesis 10 with CommentaryAll Genesis ChaptersComplete Genesis QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes