Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Shem in the Bible?
A: Shem is one of Noah's three sons (along with Ham and Yefet) who survived the flood. According to the Torah (Genesis 10:21), Shem is called the 'father of all the children of Eber,' meaning he is the ancestor of the Hebrew people, including Abraham and the Jewish nation. Rashi explains that 'Eber' refers to the descendants who lived on the 'other side' (ever) of the river, distinguishing them from other nations.
Q: Why is Shem called the 'father of all the children of Eber'?
A: Shem is called the 'father of all the children of Eber' (Genesis 10:21) because his lineage includes Eber, the ancestor of Abraham and the Jewish people. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) teaches that Eber was a righteous man who preserved the knowledge of Hashem after the flood. The term 'Eber' (עֵבֶר) also connects to the word 'Ivri' (Hebrew), showing that Shem's descendants became the Hebrew people.
Q: What is the significance of Shem being Yefet's brother?
A: The Torah mentions that Shem is the brother of Yefet (Genesis 10:21) to highlight their relationship and the division of nations after the flood. Rashi explains that Yefet is called 'the elder' because he was born before Shem, but Shem is listed first due to his spiritual greatness. The Talmud (Yoma 10a) teaches that Yefet's descendants (like the Greeks) contributed beauty and wisdom, while Shem's descendants upheld Torah and prophecy.
Q: How does Shem's lineage connect to the Jewish people?
A: Shem's lineage is crucial because it leads directly to Abraham, the first Jew. The Torah traces the genealogy from Shem to Eber (Genesis 10:21-11:26), and later to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Rambam (Maimonides) emphasizes that the Jewish people inherit their spiritual mission from Shem's descendants, who remained faithful to Hashem while other nations turned to idolatry.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Shem in this verse?
A: From Shem (Genesis 10:21), we learn the importance of preserving our spiritual heritage. Unlike his brother Ham, who acted improperly (as seen later with Noah), Shem maintained righteousness. The Midrash praises Shem for honoring his father (Noah), showing that moral and family values are key to continuing the Jewish tradition. This teaches us to prioritize Torah values in our lives today.
The Lineage of Shem
The verse (Bereishit 10:21) highlights Shem's unique role as the progenitor of the children of Ever (עֵבֶר), from whom the term Ivri (Hebrew) is derived. Rashi explains that this designation emphasizes Shem's spiritual legacy, as his descendants—particularly Avraham Avinu—would become the bearers of monotheism and the Torah tradition. The phrase "avi kol bnei Ever" ("father of all the children of Ever") underscores his centrality in the lineage leading to Bnei Yisrael.
Shem in Contrast to Yefet
The verse mentions that Shem is the brother of Yefet the elder, alluding to the dynamic between their descendants. Ramban notes that while Yefet represents wisdom and cultural achievements (as seen later in Greek philosophy), Shem embodies spiritual and ethical greatness. The Talmud (Megillah 9b) references this distinction, suggesting that the beauty of Yefet (intellectual pursuits) must dwell in the tents of Shem—meaning wisdom must align with Torah values.
The Significance of "Ever"
The name Ever (עֵבֶר) is linked to the root avar (עבר), meaning "to cross over." Midrash Bereishit Rabbah (36:8) connects this to Avraham Avinu, who "crossed over" from idolatry to monotheism. Thus, Shem’s descendants are those who transcend materialism for spiritual devotion. The Sforno adds that this title distinguishes the lineage that would uphold the covenant with Hashem.
Structural Implications in the Genealogy