Generations

(Heb. toledoth) (5:7; Gen. 10:1; Ruth 4:18) Strong’s #8435

The Hebrew toledoth is derived from the verb yalad, meaning “to give birth.” Toledoth usually introduces an extended genealogical list, such as those in Genesis (Gen. 5:1; 10:1) and 1 Chronicles (5:7; 26:31). Ancient Hebrew culture depended on detailed genealogical lists to determine questions of inheritance and land use rights. After the conquest of Canaan, each tribe received its portion of the Promised Land to divide between its clans (Josh. 13–19). Land rights remained in the clans, passed down as part of the inheritance from father to the oldest son, or daughter if there was no son (see Num. 27). Other matters, such as service in the temple and royal succession, were also determined by genealogy. Old Testament genealogies attest to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to make Israel a “great nation” (Gen. 12:1–3), and the genealogy of Matt. 1 shows Jesus as the legitimate heir to David’s throne.

Taken from NKJV Study Bible