Don’t be such a “Ham”

“Ham, the father of Canaan, saw that his father was naked and went outside and told his brothers.” Genesis 9:22 (NLT)

There is a great deal going on in this verse. First, this offense will cause the cursing of Canaan and lead to the conquest of the land of Canaan. Second, the breakdown of respect in the home, although inexcusable for Ham, is brought on by a breakdown of virtue by Noah.

Many are troubled at what appears to be a relatively minor offense (Ham mocking his father) which results in such extreme consequences (Cursing of descendants) for a seemingly innocent by-stander (Ham’s son Canaan). Many bible scholars believe that the account of Ham’s actions are euphemistic—meaning that he did more than just “see his father naked” and talk about it. In addition, Noah isn’t able to curse Ham because God had blessed him, so the sins of the father are placed upon the children. Further, many theorize that Canaan isn’t innocent, “like father, like son.” However, you wish to interpret this text, it is clearly a pivotal moment in God’s choosing a people to be His special possession.

Leaving the theological debates, I want to reflect on the second aspect of this story, the breakdown of the relationship between Noah and Ham. Just as nobody knows a child like a parent, conversely, nobody knows a parent like a child. Our true self can be seen in those unguarded, seemingly private moments when we think nobody is looking. But, somebody always is. Even if they aren’t earthly eyes, someone sees and knows what we are.

Ham saw his father at his worse, and decided that he would share that with his brothers. Ham’s actions do not excuse Noah, but neither does Noah’s drunkenness give license to his son. As Peter reminds us, “love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8) We are not to have a permissive love that refuses to hold any accountable, but an enduring love that doesn’t wish to add to the sin, or to be found “sinning” itself.

ONETHING: Don’t be a “Ham”, drawing attention to yourself by drawing attention to other’s failures.

The Habit of Virtue is something we need to add to our faith. If Faith is believing and doing the right thing, then virtue is doing the right thing—in the right way. We need to not only reflect on what we should do but also think about how we should do it. Our actions will impact others, especially where they are entangled in sin. We need to demonstrate the virtue of considering how we can demonstrate “grace” as well as “truth.”

Plus ONE: Do the right thing—in the right way.