Interesting Facts

• Uzal is recorded as the sixth among the sons of Joktan.
• His name is included in the genealogical lists that trace the descendants of Shem.

Genealogy

• Father: Joktan.
• He is listed as one of the twelve (or possibly thirteen) sons of Joktan, among his brothers are Almodad, Sheleph/Shelaf, Hazarmaveth/Chazarmoveth, Jerah/Yerach, Hadoram/Hadurom, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and perhaps Jobab.

Historical Context

The lifetime of Uzal, being a son of Joktan, is situated within the post-diluvian era, following the great flood and the subsequent division of tongues and dispersal of peoples at the Tower of Babel in the land of Shinar. As a descendant of Shem, Uzal would have been part of the migration eastward of this lineage. The sources specify that the territory of Joktan and his sons extended “from Mesha, as thou goest unto Sephar a mount of the east”. This geographical marker suggests their settlement in regions to the east of Shinar. Furthermore, the text of Jasher provides an interpretation of the name Joktan, indicating a period in which the lifespan of humankind began to diminish. Therefore, Uzal was likely born into a world experiencing significant demographic changes, the formation of distinct linguistic groups, and the initial stages of rebuilding and societal organization following the scattering from Babel. The emergence of figures like Nimrod and the early development of kingdoms also characterize this historical period.

Narrative

The narrative pertaining to Uzal within the extant sources is strictly genealogical in nature. His presence is noted through his inclusion in the lists that enumerate the sons of Joktan, thereby placing him within the broader lineage of Shem subsequent to the flood and the events at Babel. The sources do not ascribe any specific actions, pronouncements, or personal history to Uzal. His existence is documented through his familial connection to Joktan and his position amongst his brothers. As the sixth son listed, he forms a part of a family that established itself in the eastern regions following the scattering from Shinar. While the historical context describes a transformative era marked by migrations, the building of cities, and the diversification of human culture and language, Uzal’s individual role or experiences during this time are not recounted in these sources. His significance, therefore, resides in his place within the genealogical record as a descendant of Shem, contributing to the repopulation and diversification of the earth in the world after the deluge.