King James Version

What Does Genesis 11:20 Mean?

Genesis 11:20 in the King James Version says “And Reu lived two and thirty years, and begat Serug: Serug: Gr. Saruch” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Reu lived two and thirty years, and begat Serug: Serug: Gr. Saruch”

Genesis 11:20 · KJV

Context

18

And Peleg lived thirty years, and begat Reu:

19

And Peleg lived after he begat Reu two hundred and nine years, and begat sons and daughters.

20

And Reu lived two and thirty years, and begat Serug: Serug: Gr. Saruch

21

And Reu lived after he begat Serug two hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters.

22

And Serug lived thirty years, and begat Nahor:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Reu lived two and thirty years, and begat Serug:... 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. How should this truth about Abrahamic Line shape our daily decisions and priorities?
  3. In what ways does this narrative foreshadow or typify aspects of Christ's redemptive work?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיְחִ֣י1 of 8

“lived”

H2421

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

רְע֔וּ2 of 8

“And Reu”

H7466

reu, a postdiluvian patriarch

שְׁתַּ֥יִם3 of 8

“two”

H8147

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

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)

שְׂרֽוּג׃8 of 8

“Serug”

H8286

serug, a postdiluvian patriarch

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 11:20 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 11:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 3:35

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