Definition: And the sons of Javan; Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Genesis 10:4: “And the sons of Javan; Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim.” Essentially, it’s a list of names that originated from an ancient group of people called the Javanites. Here's what we can glean from it: “The sons of Javan” : This refers to a specific group of people who lived in the region around the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea during the early days of the Bible. “Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim” : These are the names of several prominent individuals within that group. Let's look at each: Elishah: This name likely means "God is my judge" or something similar, suggesting a leader or figure of importance. Tarshish: This name points to a city – Tarshish was a significant port and trading center in the ancient world. It suggests a place of wealth and influence. Kittim: This is a tricky one. "Kittim" likely means "people of the mountain" or “those who dwell on the mountains.” This could be a reference to a particular clan or tribe. Dodanim: This name simply means “the distant” or “foreign.” It highlights their connection to other cultures and peoples. So, what does this verse tell us? It’s a foundational detail about the origins of several groups in ancient Middle Eastern history. The Javanites were a diverse group of people who played a significant role in shaping the development of civilizations like Canaan and later, the Levant. This list highlights their geographical spread and influences. Why is this important? Origins of Nations: It shows that these names have roots in a very ancient and specific region, contributing to our understanding of how cultures developed and migrated. Historical Context: Knowing this list helps us understand the historical landscape where the Bible was written – the Middle East. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a more detailed explanation of any of these names?