zebaim

Zebaim is a term derived from Hebrew that refers to the descendants of Noah's son Japheth in biblical genealogy. The term is found in the Table of Nations in Genesis chapter 10, which outlines the lineages of Noah's three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their subsequent descendants. Zebaim, along with other groups like Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, and Meshech, are listed as sons of Japheth.

The specific identity and geographical location of the Zebaim people are not definitively known and have been subject to various interpretations by scholars and biblical commentators throughout history. Some interpretations suggest a connection to populations in the northern regions, consistent with the general geographical association of Japheth's descendants in biblical tradition. However, there is no consensus on their precise ancestral homeland or their historical interactions with other ancient peoples. The genealogical lists in Genesis are primarily theological and cosmological in nature, aiming to establish the origins of humanity and its dispersion across the earth from a divine perspective, rather than providing precise historical or anthropological data. Therefore, understanding Zebaim within the context of their biblical origin is key to interpreting the term.