Theodoret explains this further, emphasizing that “Let the God of Japheth spread Japheth, and let the Godhead dwell in the villages of Shem.” There, indeed, the sacred presence of the Divine was manifested, as within the tribe of Shem, amidst a world largely lost to ignorance of God, a people of Judah emerged who recognized their Creator, as expressed in the Psalms: ‘God is known in Judah, in Israel His name is great’ (Psalm 75:2). The tribes from Japheth and Ham fell into idolatry, yet the Jewish lineage, beginning with Abraham through Shem, served the one true God. From this lineage came the priesthood, the holy sanctuary was established, the tabernacle known as ‘the Holy of Holies’ was created, and Solomon's glorious temple was built in Jerusalem, where the Son of God, the Source of all sanctity, was born. Noah perceived this in his spirit and foresaw God's indwelling among the tribes of Shem. To expand one's domains is a sign of royal sovereignty, while having the Divine sanctuary within is a priestly honor. Noah seemingly conveyed to his sons, “Shem, perform sacred duties, offering sacrifices to God and praying; Japheth, possess the nations, liberate them and defend them; and you, Ham, with your son Canaan, serve both.”
It holds profound significance that Noah, after recovering from his wine-induced stupor, first denounced Canaan as he reflected on Ham's wrongdoing. Some scholars suggest that young Canaan, at the age of ten, witnessed his grandfather Noah's nakedness and reported it to Ham. Ham, instead of reprimanding Canaan, chose to view the situation himself, thereby encouraging his son's impudence. By failing to chastise his son when discovering Noah’s vulnerability, Ham not only allowed Canaan to speak of his father’s shame but essentially implicated both himself and his son in Noah’s curse. This serves as a lesson for parents: they are to raise their children from the beginning (as instructed by the apostles) ‘in the chastening and nurturing of the Lord’ (Eph. 6:4), instilling fear and discipline rather than indulging them, avoiding self-will and protecting them from immorality and profane actions. The lessons learned in youth are often indelible, shaping character into later life, as the young are like a blank canvas receptive to inscription. What is impressed upon them, whether virtuous or sinful, honorable or dishonorable, will remain throughout their days.
Just as a garment remains marked by its first dye, so too does a child retain the influences of their upbringing. Therefore, it is imperative that young individuals be instructed in virtuous behavior through both authority and affection, with an emphasis on discipline, as recommended by Sirach: ‘Give not to thy son power in his youth, but crush that man’s ribs, till he be young, that eateth what he will not obey’ (Sirach 30:11-12). St. Chrysostom likened youth to a wild horse or a ferocious beast, emphasizing the necessity of guidance and correction. Just as a horse is controlled by reins and a strong hand, so too does youth require boundaries and discipline, laying down rules as rigorous as shackles. Sirach wisely observes: ‘He that loveth his son shall partake of his wounds’ (Sirach 30:1). Parents should not only impart virtue but also secure caring and principled mentors for their children, ensuring they monitor their actions and conversations, correcting any misconduct and guiding them in righteous morals.
St. Chrysostom notes that robust youth needs many instructors—teachers, mentors, and companions. He questions why we seek diligent caretakers for animals but neglect proper guardianship for our children. Just as animals need protection from dangers, children require guidance to shield them from evil influences and spiritual peril. St. Gregory the Great recounted a grave situation in his dialogue with Deacon Peter, detailing how many children are barred from entering the Kingdom of Heaven due to neglectful upbringing. He described a father in Rome who adored his young son and raised him without discipline. The boy, surrounded only by affection, grew accustomed to speaking wickedly, even blaspheming against the Divine. Tragically, during a severe illness, the demons approached to claim the boy’s soul, and despite his pleas for protection, he succumbed to his blasphemous ways and passed away. This harrowing account serves as a sobering warning for parents who raise their children without discipline, fostering ungodliness. Indeed, these negligent parents, alongside their unruly offspring, will face the consequences of God’s judgment, akin to how Ham and Canaan inherited the curse. As it is written, they shall hear the admonition: ‘Depart from Me, ye cursed’ (Matthew 25:41).
THEOSIS