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Aram

A son of Shem named in the Table of Nations of Genesis 10, associated with the Arameans, a people whose territory and language (Aramaic) became significant across much of the later biblical world.

Accounts of this vary across texts and traditions. This entry primarily follows Hebrew Bible (Genesis), with other tellings (Masoretic Text (Hebrew Bible), Septuagint (Greek translation), Jewish and Christian rabbinic and patristic tradition) noted where relevant.

Relationships

Parents
Shem
Siblings
Lud · Elam · Asshur · Arphaxad

Introduction

Aram is a son of Shem, named in the Table of Nations of Genesis 10:22, one of five sons listed alongside Elam, Asshur, Lud, Aram and Arphaxad (the last being the ancestor of the line continuing to Abraham). Aram is associated with the Arameans, a people whose territory and language (Aramaic) became significant across much of the later biblical world.

This article follows the biblical account in Genesis. Where later Jewish, Christian or Islamic tradition adds detail not found in the text itself, the article identifies it as such.

Family

In the Table of Nations

Genesis 10:22 lists Aram among the sons of Shem. As with most names in this chapter, the biblical text gives no independent narrative for Aram directly, and identification with specific historical peoples or regions relies on comparison with later biblical references and other ancient Near Eastern sources.

Sources

  1. Genesis 10:22-23 (primary text) — https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+10%3A22-23&version=NRSVUE

This entry is independently written for myVamsam using the sources listed above. Where traditions differ, this entry identifies the relevant tradition rather than presenting one account as universally established fact.