Jews Descended from Canaanites?

Question

Hello again, Rabbi(s).

I have heard that a 2020 study proves that Jews are descended from Canaanites. They say that — consistent across various Jewish and even Arabic groups — Jews’ DNA originates from Canaanite samples in ancient sites.

Biblically, Canaan is Cham’s son, whereas Yisrael and Yishmael (Arabs) are Shem’s descendants.

In your tradition, is there an explanation for these findings?

Thank you.

 

Jews and Arabs Descended from Canaanites

https://api.nationalgeographic.com/distribution/public/amp/history/2020/05/dna-from-biblical-canaanites-lives-modern-arabs-jews

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Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    I am not sure why this should be so shocking. After all Canaan was a grandson of Noach which means that the DNA must share many similarities with Shem’s descendants. Shem and Cham were brothers and their DNA was pretty much identical and their children’s DNA onwards will show signs of resemblance.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team