Praise be to the LORD, the God of Shem! — Genesis 9:26

Shem is likely Noah’s first son, as his name appears first (Genesis 5:32). Together with his brothers, he helped build the ark, gather creatures and care for them through the judgement of the flood. While little is said about his character in the Bible, God’s blessings over him were vividly clear. Shem lived in a world filled with corruption and evil yet entered the ark in obedience with his family. It is notable that his survival was not by his own merit but because of God’s grace and faithfulness. Shem and his brothers became the forefathers of all humanity, and Shem, through Abraham, became the custodian of God’s covenant.

Shem stands out as a remarkable figure among Noah’s sons. His actions not only brought honour to his family but also glorified God. When Noah lay uncovered in his tent after becoming drunk, Shem’s response reflected deep respect and responsibility. Instead of exposing his father’s shame like Ham did, Shem, along with Japheth, chose a careful and respectful way to cover him. This act became a testimony to Shem’s character of honour and faith.

Noah, recognizing this, blessed Shem and Japheth while cursing Ham for his dishonour. In Shem’s case, Noah went even further by declaring, “Praise be to the LORD, the God of Shem!” (Genesis 9:26). It is noticeable that this blessing is unique because its focus was not on Shem, but on the LORD, the God of Shem. What a privilege for Shem! God is being recognized as his God, similar to the way later generations referred to the LORD as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. God’s name is being glorified through him.

Moreover, this statement showed that God’s presence and favour rested on Shem and that Shem enjoyed a close fellowship with God, demonstrated through acts of worship and through a strong living testimony. Shem’s greatest treasure was not his own identity and fame but that the LORD was his God. One writer puts it this way, “This is the starting point of true blessing: belonging to God.” Shem’s identity was that he belongs to the LORD, which is above every other blessing. This reminds us that the greatest honour is not glorifying ourselves but being connected to God.

In Pakistan, Christians live as a minority and often experience discrimination, prejudice and signifi cant marginalization on the basis of their faith. Just as it was a privilege for Shem that God was recognized as his God, it is likewise a privilege for Christians in Pakistan to be recognized as God’s people. This identity gives them dignity and courage to live with confidence in a society that ostracizes them. All who face such challenges should be mindful to remember that their true identity is in Christ, who has called them to take up their cross and follow Him, promising to be with them even in their sufferings. Shem’s story reminds Pakistani Christians that their true worth and calling do not come from social status or the opinions of others but from belonging to the Lord Jesus Himself.

Shem holds a significant place in God’s redemptive plan. From his lineage came the Semitic nations and, most notably, Abraham, through whom God established His covenant. The people of Israel came from Abraham, and through them, God gave His written revelation to the world. The blessing on Shem found its ultimate fulfilment in Jesus Christ, who brought salvation to the world for all people, regardless of lineage. Despite disruptions like the Tower of Babel, God’s plan continued through Shem’s line, making him a vital link in the chain of divine promises and blessings which culminate in Jesus Christ for the whole of humanity.