Shem

Q: What peoples came from Shem?

The 'Semitic' peoples—including Hebrews, Arabs, Assyrians, and Arameans—descend from Shem. Most importantly, Abraham came through Shem's line, making Shem the ancestor of Israel and ultimately of Jesus Christ. The blessing on Shem focused on his relationship with God.

Son of Noah, Ancestor of Semitic Peoples

Old Testament

Shem was one of Noah's three sons who survived the flood on the ark. He and his brother Japheth covered their father's nakedness when Ham had dishonored him. Shem became the ancestor of the Semitic peoples, including Abraham and ultimately Jesus Christ.

Character Traits

RespectfulBlessedAncestor of Israel

Life Timeline

Birthc. 2448 BC

Shem is born to Noah.

GEN 5:32

The Floodc. 2348 BC

Shem and his wife survive the flood in the ark.

GEN 7:13

Covers Noahc. 2347 BC

Shem and Japheth respectfully cover their father's nakedness.

GEN 9:23

Blessedc. 2347 BC

Noah blesses Shem: 'Blessed be the LORD, the God of Shem.'

GEN 9:26

DescendantsPost-flood

Shem's descendants include Abraham and the Semitic peoples.

GEN 10:21-31, 11:10-26

Deathc. 1848 BC

Shem dies at 600 years old.

GEN 11:10-11

Key Relationships

NoahFamily

Father - Noah blessed Shem's line.

HamFamily

Brother - Shem's descendants would eventually rule over Ham's.

JaphethFamily

Brother - Japheth helped Shem cover their father.

Spiritual Lessons

Honoring Parents

While Ham exposed his father's shame, Shem and Japheth walked backward to cover it. How we treat our parents' failures matters. Shem showed honor even when Noah failed. His respectful response brought blessing on his entire line.

Key Verses

Genesis 9:23-27 Genesis 10:21-31 Genesis 11:10-11

Frequently Asked Questions

What peoples came from Shem?+

View journey on map

Back