Riphath: A Son of Gomer
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Riphath is a biblical figure mentioned in the Table of Nations, a genealogical record found in the Book of Genesis. He is identified as one of the sons of Gomer, who is a descendant of Japheth, the son of Noah. The reference to Riphath is brief, yet it holds significance in the broader context of biblical genealogy and the dispersion of nations.

Biblical Reference:

Riphath is mentioned in Genesis 10:3: "The sons of Gomer: Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah." . This passage is part of the genealogical account that outlines the descendants of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—after the Flood. The Table of Nations serves to explain the origins of various peoples and nations known to the ancient Israelites.

Genealogical Context:

Riphath is listed as a son of Gomer, who is the firstborn of Japheth. Gomer's lineage is associated with the peoples who settled in the regions north of Israel, often linked to the Indo-European groups. The descendants of Japheth are traditionally understood to have spread into Europe and parts of Asia, and Riphath's lineage is considered part of this expansive migration.

Historical and Cultural Associations:

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Riphath himself, historical and traditional sources have attempted to associate him with various ancient peoples. Some scholars and historians have speculated that Riphath may be connected to the Rhipaean Mountains, a term used in classical antiquity to describe a range of mountains in Eastern Europe. Others have suggested links to the Celtic or Scythian tribes, although these connections remain speculative.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Riphath in the Table of Nations underscores the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and the unity of humanity under the Creator. The genealogies in Genesis serve to trace the spread of humanity from a common origin, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all peoples. Riphath, as part of this lineage, contributes to the narrative of human history as understood within the biblical framework.

Conclusion:

Riphath's brief mention in the Bible invites readers to consider the broader implications of the genealogical records in Genesis. While specific details about his life and descendants are not provided, his inclusion in the Table of Nations highlights the biblical interest in the origins and relationships of the world's peoples. Through Riphath and others, the Scriptures present a vision of humanity that is diverse yet unified under God's providential care.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 10:3
And the sons of Gomer; Ashkenaz, and Riphath, and Togarmah.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:6
And the sons of Gomer; Ashchenaz, and Riphath, and Togarmah.
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew
7384. Riphath -- a son of Gomer, also his desc.
Riphath or Diphath. 7383, 7384. Riphath or Diphath. 7385 . a son of Gomer,
also his desc. Transliteration: Riphath or Diphath Phonetic ...
/hebrew/7384.htm - 6k
Library

How Every Nation was Denominated from their First Inhabitants.
... Of the three sons of Gomer, Aschanax founded the ... So did Riphath found the Ripheans,
now called Paphlagonians; and ... three sons of Javan also, the son of Japhet ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 how every nation.htm

Chapter x
... 3. And the sons of Gomer: Ashkenaz and Riphath and ... "Riphath," most likely, refers
to the Paphlagonians who dwelt by the ... The son is the same one referred to in 9 ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

[Endnotes]
... Thus the first is always Peter, the fifth Philip, the ninth James the son of Alpheus,
and the twelfth ... Gomer, Magog ... Ashkenaz, Elishah, Riphath, Tarshish, Togarmah ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/endnotes.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... "There are three that can bear record in heaven" (1 John 5:7-9). These three are
called "the Father, the Son [Word], and the Holy Spirit"; each of which is ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

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