1:4–27 Beginning with Noah, the account shows how God chose some nations over others. The sons of Noah are treated separately: Japheth (1:5–7), Ham (1:8–16), and Shem (1:17–27). Relying selectively on Gen. 10:1–32 (Gen. 10 note), the Chronicler places the chosen line last. From the descendants of Noah, the Shemites (Semitic peoples) alone were in special covenant relationship with God.