Overview
Sheleph appears in the genealogical records of Scripture as a son of Joktan, who was himself a son of Eber and a descendant of Shem. The Table of Nations in Genesis 10 records the distribution of peoples after the flood, establishing the lineage of various ancient nations and peoples. Sheleph's inclusion in this genealogy indicates his significance in the early settlement patterns of the ancient world.
Key Scriptures
"Joktan fathered Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab; all these were the sons of Joktan." (Genesis 10:26-27, ESV)
"Joktan fathered Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab; all these were sons of Joktan." (1 Chronicles 1:20, ESV)
Application
Studying the Table of Nations reminds us that God established boundaries and times for all nations, demonstrating His sovereign plan for human history and peoples.