Old Testament

Genesis 11:22

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

When Serug was thirty years old, he became the father of Nahor.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And Serug lived thirty years, and begat Nahor:

What Genesis 11:22 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we learn about Serug, who became a father at the age of thirty. This moment is significant as it marks a continuation of family lineage, which is a recurring theme in the early chapters of Genesis. Each generation builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of history and relationships. Serug's life and his role as a father highlight the importance of family in shaping identity and legacy. The act of becoming a parent is not just about bringing a child into the world; it’s about the responsibilities and hopes that come with it. This verse reminds us that every individual has a story that contributes to a larger narrative. Serug's decision to start a family at thirty reflects the choices we all make that impact future generations. It encourages us to think about our own legacies and the values we pass on to those who come after us. In essence, this verse invites us to reflect on our own journeys and the significance of our relationships with family.

How to apply Genesis 11:22 to your life

Consider the relationships in your life and how they shape who you are. Reflect on the values you want to pass on to future generations. Every choice you make can influence those who come after you, so choose wisely and with intention. Embrace the role of being a mentor or guide in someone’s life, just as Serug did for Nahor. Your influence can create a lasting legacy that matters deeply to others and to yourself.

Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Genesis 11:22

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Genesis 11:22

At a Glance — the Book of Genesis

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Genesis 11:22 mean?

Genesis 11:22 tells us that Serug became a father at the age of thirty, marking an important moment in the family lineage. This verse emphasizes the significance of parenthood and how each generation contributes to the ongoing story of humanity.

How does Genesis 11:22 relate to family legacy?

Genesis 11:22 relates to family legacy by showing how Serug's decision to start a family at thirty is part of a broader theme of lineage in the Bible. It reminds us that our choices and relationships can influence future generations.

What themes are present in Genesis 11:22?

The themes present in Genesis 11:22 include family lineage, parenthood, legacy, identity, and the impact of one generation on another. These themes highlight the importance of relationships and the stories we create through our lives.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.