Arphaxad / Arpachshad

The name that is transliterated as “Arphaxad” or “Arpachshad” in English means “one that releases,” “a jar pouring forth,” “I shall fail at the breast.” (Source: Cornwall / Smith 1997 )

In Libras (Brazilian Sign Language) it is translated with a sign that suggests “expansion of people.” Arphaxad is the grandson of Noah and is known for being a pioneer in the expansion of people. (Source: Missão Kophós )


“Arphaxad / Arpachshad” in Libras (source )

See also Cainan (son of Arphaxad).

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

Eber

The name that is transliterated as “Eber” in English means “he who passed over,” “the region beyond.” (Source: Cornwall / Smith 1997 )

In Libras (Brazilian Sign Language) it is translated with a sign that shows him as a one of Jesus’ ancestors, linking Jesus to the lineage of the Hebrews (“Hebrews” historically was understood as coming from “Eber” ). Therefore, the sign shows “descended from the Hebrew people.” (Source: Missão Kophós )


“Eber” in Libras (source )

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

complete verse (1 Chronicles 1:18)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of 1 Chronicles 1:18:

  • Kupsabiny: “Arphaxad produced Shelah who produced Eber.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “Arphaxad was the father of Shelah,
    and Shelah was the father of Eber.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “Arfaxad was the father of Shela, and Shela was the father of Eber.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)

Translation commentary on 1 Chronicles 1:18

Arpachshad was the father of Shelah: Shelah represents the thirteenth generation of humankind. He is the son of Arpachshad in the Masoretic Text, but in the Septuagint he is the son of Cainan and the grandson of Arpachshad. The genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3.35-36 also lists Cainan as the father of Shelah.

And Shelah was the father of Eber: Eber represents the fourteenth generation since Adam. From his name the word “Hebrew” is derived. He was in direct line as an ancestor of Abraham (Gen 11.16-26) and of Jesus (Luke 3.23-35).

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .