King James Version

What Does Genesis 11:16 Mean?

Genesis 11:16 in the King James Version says “And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg: Peleg: Gr. Phalec” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg: Peleg: Gr. Phalec”

Genesis 11:16 · KJV

Context

14

And Salah lived thirty years, and begat Eber:

15

And Salah lived after he begat Eber four hundred and three years, and begat sons and daughters.

16

And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg: Peleg: Gr. Phalec

17

And Eber lived after he begat Peleg four hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters.

18

And Peleg lived thirty years, and begat Reu:

Read Genesis 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg:... 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.

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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 understanding this verse shape our doctrine of humanity, sin, or salvation?
  2. What obstacles prevent us from living out the truths presented in this verse?
  3. How does understanding Christ as the ultimate fulfillment illuminate this passage's meaning?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַֽיְחִי1 of 8

“lived”

H2421

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

עֵ֕בֶר2 of 8

“And Eber”

H5677

eber, the name of two patriarchs and four israelites

אַרְבַּ֥ע3 of 8

“four”

H702

four

וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים4 of 8

“and thirty”

H7970

thirty; or (ordinal) thirtieth

שָׁנָ֑ה5 of 8

“years”

H8141

a year (as a revolution of time)

וַיּ֖וֹלֶד6 of 8

“and begat”

H3205

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

אֶת7 of 8
H853

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

פָּֽלֶג׃8 of 8

“Peleg”

H6389

peleg, a son of shem

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 11:16 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 11:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 24:24Genesis 10:251 Chronicles 1:19Genesis 10:21Luke 3:35

Test Your Knowledge

Genesis 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterGenesis Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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