Genesis 10:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Sidon, from which the Phoenician city derives its name, was the firstborn of Canaan. Following this was Arakei, the founder of Arkas, a city located across from Tripoli at the base of Lebanon. Close to this city was another named Sin, which, after suffering destruction in various conflicts, left behind only its name associated with the area. The Arads inhabited the island of Arad, which is separated from the Phoenician coastline by a narrow channel. The renowned city of Emessa, perched on the Syrian heights, is under the control of the Samaritans. Amath continues to bear its ancient name to this day, recognized by both Jews and Syrians. The Macedonians, who governed the East following Alexander’s reign, renamed the city Epiphanius. Some believe this Amath may refer to Antioch.

The Hivvi tribe resided in Lebanon (Judg. 3:3) and prior to engaging in conflict with the Israelites, inhabited other regions of Palestine (Num. 11:19). The name Arches is linked by Bochart to the city of Arqa, located at the base of Lebanon, as referenced by both Josephus and Ptolemy. Regarding Sini, Jerome notes that it was situated close to Arki (Quaese. Heb. in Genes), while Strabo refers to a fortified area in Lebanon known as Sinna (L. XVI).