became the father of
This phrase indicates the genealogical and patriarchal significance of Canaan in the biblical narrative. In Hebrew culture, lineage and ancestry were crucial for identity and inheritance. The phrase underscores the importance of Canaan as a progenitor of nations that would play a pivotal role in the biblical history of Israel. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His divine plan through generations.

Sidon his firstborn
Sidon, derived from the Hebrew "צִידוֹן" (Tzidon), is historically recognized as one of the oldest and most significant Phoenician cities. As Canaan's firstborn, Sidon holds a place of prominence, symbolizing the beginning of the Canaanite lineage. The city of Sidon is frequently mentioned in the Bible, often in the context of trade and idolatry, representing the cultural and religious influences that challenged Israel's faithfulness to Yahweh. The mention of Sidon as the firstborn highlights the enduring impact of Canaan's descendants on the region's history and Israel's interactions with neighboring peoples.

and of Heth
Heth, from the Hebrew "חֵת" (Chet), is identified as the ancestor of the Hittites, a significant group in the ancient Near East. The Hittites are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, often as inhabitants of the land that Israel was to possess. The inclusion of Heth in this genealogy emphasizes the historical and theological context of the Israelites' conquest and settlement in Canaan. It serves as a reminder of the diverse and often adversarial relationships between Israel and the surrounding nations, highlighting the challenges of maintaining covenant faithfulness amidst external influences.

(13) Canaan begat Zidon his firstborn.--Or, in modern phrase, Zidon is the oldest city of Canaan. It is usually mentioned along with Tyre, the ruling city in later times. Sennacherib speaks of the flight of Luli, "king of Zidon," from Tyre. Esarhaddon mentions Baal of Tyre as a tributary. Of the eleven "sons of Canaan all but three or four have been identified in the cuneiform inscriptions of Assyria.

And Heth--that is, the Hittite race, called Heta by the Egyptians, and Hatti by the Assyrians. (See 1Chronicles 1:8, Note.) The Hittites were once the dominant race of Syria and Palestine. Carchemish, on the Euphrates, and Kadesh, as well as Hamath, appear to have been Hittite cities. Their kings had commercial relations with Solomon (1Kings 10:29). Inscriptions, in a kind of mixed hieroglyph, have been found at Hamath and Carchemish, but they still await decipherment.

(14) The Jebusite.--The men of Jebus, or Jerusalem (1Chronicles 11:4). . . .

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