Learn more about Nahor

Introduction to Nahor

The name “Nahor” appears multiple times in the Bible and is associated with individuals closely linked to the patriarch Abraham. Nahor is a significant figure in the Genesis narrative, belonging to the genealogical line through which God’s covenant with Abraham is later established. The name "Nahor" (Hebrew: נָחוֹר, *Nāḥôr*) likely means "snorting" or "panting," though some interpretations suggest “a snorting sound” as indicative of vigor or strength.

Nahor Pronunciation

“Nahor” is pronounced as NAY-hor, with emphasis on the first syllable. In Hebrew, it is pronounced more like naw-KHOR with a guttural “kh” sound common in Semitic languages.

Nahor in the Bible

Nahor is the name of two distinct individuals in the Old Testament, both within the lineage of Shem, the son of Noah:

• Nahor, Son of Serug: This Nahor is the grandfather of Abraham. He appears in the genealogies of Genesis 11:22–25. He fathered Terah, who in turn fathered Abram (later Abraham), Nahor (the second Nahor), and Haran. Nahor lived 148 years after becoming the father of Terah.
• Nahor, Son of Terah: This Nahor is Abraham’s brother and thus a more immediate figure in the patriarchal narrative. He is mentioned in Genesis 11:26–29. He married Milcah, the daughter of his brother Haran, and settled in the region of Mesopotamia. His descendants include Bethuel (father of Rebekah) and Laban, both of whom play major roles in the stories of Isaac and Jacob.

Nahor’s Role in Biblical History and Genealogy

Nahor’s significance lies in his familial connections and in the broader ancestral lineage of the Hebrew patriarchs. Key points include:

• His descendants maintained ties with Abraham’s family, evidenced by Abraham sending his servant to Nahor’s descendants to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24).
• The town of “Nahor” mentioned in Genesis 24:10 refers to the city where Abraham’s relatives lived in Aram-Naharaim (Mesopotamia). It underscores the continued relationship between Abraham’s line and Nahor’s descendants.
• Nahor’s granddaughter, Rebekah, becomes the wife of Isaac, strengthening the family lineage. Her brother Laban is the future father-in-law of Jacob, further intertwining the patriarchal families.

Related Themes and Meanings to Nahor

Several related themes emerge from Nahor’s role in the Bible:

• Patriarchal Lineage: Nahor is crucial in preserving the genealogical line that leads to the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham.
• Family Alliances: His descendants formed marital ties with the main patriarchal line, showing the importance of kinship in biblical narratives.
• Mesopotamian Roots: The references to Nahor and his city reflect the cultural and geographical origins of the patriarchs, rooted in the broader ancient Near East.

Scriptures Involving Nahor

• Genesis 11:22–26: Genealogy of Shem down to Terah and his sons, including Nahor.
• Genesis 11:27–29: Family of Terah; introduces Nahor, Haran, and Abram.
• Genesis 22:20–24: Details about Nahor’s children, including Bethuel, the father of Rebekah.
• Genesis 24:10, 15, 24, 47: Story of Abraham’s servant traveling to Nahor’s city to find a wife for Isaac; mentions Rebekah and her family.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Nahor

• Nahor, the brother of Abraham, is one of several individuals in Genesis with overlapping names across generations, which reflects a common cultural practice of naming descendants after ancestors.
• The land or city of “Nahor” was known to be in the region of Aram-Naharaim (Northern Mesopotamia), suggesting that Nahor’s descendants established a community or town significant enough to be referenced geographically.
• Although not a patriarch in the direct line of the covenant, Nahor's family served as an important link in the divine plan by providing wives for Isaac and Jacob, ensuring continuity of the covenantal promises.

Nahor’s Legacy

Though a relatively minor character in terms of narrative scope, Nahor’s legacy is profound through his descendants. His genealogical link to Rebekah and Laban ties him closely to pivotal moments in the stories of Isaac and Jacob. His role as both brother and ancestor within the patriarchal family frames him as a foundational figure in the background of Israel’s origin story.