HEBREWS – DESCENDANTS OF EBER
(Identity, Covenant Lineage, and Bearers of the Promise)
(Primary References: Gen 10:21–25; 14:13)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
The term “Hebrews” first appears in Sacred Scripture to identify a distinct people descending from Eber, a son of Shem (Gen 10:21). Abraham himself is explicitly called “Abram the Hebrew” (Gen 14:13), making the designation both ethnic and covenantal. The name “Hebrew” (ʿIvri) is thus rooted in genealogy and later becomes associated with those who belong to the line chosen by God for His salvific plan.
Historical and Cultural Background
In the ancient Near East, peoples were often identified by ancestry, language, and tribal origin. The Hebrews emerged as a Semitic group distinct from surrounding nations such as the Canaanites, Egyptians, and Mesopotamians. Their identity was not primarily political but familial and religious, shaped by descent from Shem through Eber and later by God’s covenant with Abraham. The Hebrews were originally semi-nomadic, living as sojourners rather than settled city-dwellers.
Detailed Biblical Biography
Eber appears in the Table of Nations (Gen 10) as a pivotal figure in the post-Flood genealogy. Scripture notes that “to Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided, and his brother’s name was Joktan” (Gen 10:25). From Eber, the genealogical line proceeds through Peleg to Terah, and ultimately to Abram (Abraham).
When Abram is later described as “the Hebrew” (Gen 14:13), the term identifies him as belonging to this ancestral line and distinguishes him from other peoples in Canaan. From Abraham onward, the Hebrews become the bearers of God’s promises, including land, descendants, and blessing for all nations (Gen 12:1–3). Over time, the term “Hebrew” is used by outsiders and in contexts of contrast, especially in Egypt (Ex 1:15), while “Israelites” becomes the preferred self-designation after Jacob is renamed Israel.
References in Other Parts of the Bible
The term “Hebrew” appears frequently in Exodus to describe the enslaved people of God (Ex 1:15–16; 2:6; 3:18). In the prophetic and historical books, it is often used by foreigners or in military contexts (1 Sam 4:6; Jon 1:9). In the New Testament, Paul identifies himself as “a Hebrew of Hebrews” (Phil 3:5), emphasizing both ancestral purity and fidelity to Jewish tradition.
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
Jewish tradition associates the name “Hebrew” with the idea of one who “crosses over,” possibly alluding to Abraham crossing the Euphrates or standing apart from idolatrous cultures. Eber is remembered as a righteous ancestor who preserved true worship during a time of widespread apostasy. Thus, the Hebrews are seen as those who remain faithful to the one true God amid a divided world.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
The Catholic tradition understands the Hebrews as the foundational people through whom God progressively revealed Himself. The Catechism affirms that God chose Israel to prepare for the coming of Christ, and this preparation begins with the Hebrews, starting from Abraham’s call (CCC 59–64). Their history illustrates divine election, not as privilege alone, but as service for the salvation of all humanity.
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
Jesus Christ was born within the Hebrew people, inheriting the promises made to Abraham and fulfilled in the New Covenant. Mary, Daughter of Zion, stands as the culmination of Hebrew faith and obedience. The Hebrews thus occupy a central role in salvation history as the human lineage through which the Messiah entered the world (Rom 9:4–5).
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
The Hebrews prefigure the Church as a pilgrim people, called out from the nations to live by faith. Just as Abraham the Hebrew lived as a sojourner, Christians are called to live as “strangers and exiles” on earth (Heb 11:13; 1 Pet 2:11). The Letter to the Hebrews explicitly draws on this identity to show Christ as the fulfillment of all Old Covenant hopes.
What Makes This People Unique
The Hebrews are unique not because of political power or cultural dominance, but because of divine election. Their identity is rooted in promise, covenant, and faith rather than territory or empire. They are chosen to carry God’s revelation and to mediate blessing to all nations.
Strengths and Virtues
The Hebrew identity is marked by faith, perseverance, and obedience. From Eber to Abraham and beyond, the Hebrews demonstrate trust in God’s word, even when it requires leaving homeland, enduring suffering, or living as minorities among powerful nations.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
While chosen, the Hebrews were not without failure. Scripture records episodes of unbelief, disobedience, and idolatry. These failures, however, highlight God’s patience and mercy, showing that election does not eliminate human freedom or responsibility.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
The history of the Hebrews teaches that authentic leadership flows from obedience to God rather than worldly power. Christians are reminded that being chosen by God implies mission and accountability. Faithfulness in small beginnings can have universal consequences in God’s plan.
Reflection
The identity of the Hebrews reminds believers that God works through history, families, and cultures to accomplish His saving will. Chosen not for privilege but for purpose, the Hebrews stand as a testimony that faith, not power, is the true foundation of God’s kingdom. Their story invites Christians to live as people set apart, rooted in covenant fidelity, and oriented toward the fulfillment found in Christ.
Prayer
Lord God, who called Eber and Abraham and formed a people to bear Your promises, grant us the grace to live as faithful heirs of that covenant fulfilled in Christ. Help us to walk as pilgrims in this world, trusting in Your word, obedient to Your will, and open to being instruments of blessing for all. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.