Genesis 11:21 states: "And Shem lived after he begat Arphaxad five hundred years, and begat sons and daughters." This verse summarizes a portion of Shem's life following the birth of his son, Arphaxad, and emphasizes his long life and the continuity of his lineage.

This passage, while seemingly straightforward, opens the door to significant thematic and genealogical explorations in the Bible:

• Lineage and Legacy: Shem, being one of the three sons of Noah, holds a vital role in the genealogical structure of the Bible. His lineage is crucial, as it leads to Abraham and ultimately to the Jewish people.
• Longevity as Divine Favor: The extended lifespan of Shem and others of his generation illustrates the early divine favor and vitality bestowed upon humanity post-Flood. This theme resonates throughout early chapters of Genesis.
• The Importance of Sons and Daughters: The mention of Shem's sons and daughters signifies the importance of family and the continuation of one's name and heritage, highlighting a significant biblical theme of family and community.

In summary, this verse reveals important socio-religious values such as lineage, divine favor, and the significance of family in God’s broader redemptive plans.

• Genesis 10:21 - Establishes Shem as the ancestor of all children of Eber.
• Hebrews 7:14 - References Jesus' lineage through the tribe of Judah, linked back to Shem.
• Genesis 12:3 - God promises Abraham that through his lineage, all nations will be blessed.
• Genesis 9:26 - Noah prophesies blessing on Shem, establishing a covenantal relationship.
• 1 Chronicles 1:24-27 - Provides a detailed genealogical record of Shem's descendants.
• Luke 3:36 - Traces the genealogy of Jesus back to Shem through Abraham.
• Romans 9:5 - Details Christ's lineage which connects back to Shem as part of his divine ancestry.
• Matthew 1:1 - The genealogy of Jesus Christ includes Shem's lineage, emphasizing God's promise to this family line.

Understanding Genesis 11:21 involves recognizing how it connects to broader themes and narratives in Scripture:

• The Unity of Humanity: This verse is part of the larger narrative of Genesis, focusing on God’s plan for humanity and the establishment of nations.
• Redemptive History: Shem’s lineage is ultimately pivotal in the unfolding of God’s redemptive history through Israel and the coming of Christ.

Through comparative Bible verse analysis, we see how Shem's extended life may contrast with the shorter lifespans of post-Flood generations, reflecting a shift in God's relationship with humanity:

• Genesis 6:3 - Introduces the limitation of human lifespan as a divine response to sin.
• Psalm 90:10 - Reflects on the general brevity of life compared to the early generations.

The exegetical conversations surrounding Genesis 11:21 invite theological discourse on creation, fall, and divine promise. Shem is more than a historical figure; he represents the rich tapestry of God’s covenant workings through generations:

• Shem's role in covenant theology: His lineage is integral in the divine narrative of redemption, connecting the Old and New Testaments.
• Family as a Theological Theme: The significance of progeny in the biblical narrative is echoed across various texts highlighting the blessings of family.

This analysis incorporates important keywords relevant to Bible verse cross-references, connections between Bible verses, and thematic Bible verse connections. By using tools for Bible cross-referencing and Bible concordance, readers can delve deeper into the connections that Genesis 11:21 establishes within scripture.

Through understanding the life of Shem and the implications of his legacy, one can explore the Bible verses that relate to each other and see how they weave a cohesive narrative of faith, family, and the continued unfolding of God’s plan. This approach is foundational in Bible cross-reference guide methodologies, enriching Bible study and aiding in sermon preparation.

In conclusion, an in-depth study of Genesis 11:21 offers not only a glimpse into Shem's immediate impact but invites readers to explore the broader familial networks and the profound theological implications of divine legacy and covenant continuity.