King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 1:19 Mean?

1 Chronicles 1:19 in the King James Version says “And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brot...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name was Joktan. Peleg: that is, division”

1 Chronicles 1:19 · KJV

Context

17

The sons of Shem; Elam, and Asshur, and Arphaxad, and Lud, and Aram, and Uz, and Hul, and Gether, and Meshech. Meshech: or, Mash

18

And Arphaxad begat Shelah, and Shelah begat Eber.

19

And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name was Joktan. Peleg: that is, division

20

And Joktan begat Almodad, and Sheleph, and Hazarmaveth, and Jerah,

21

Hadoram also, and Uzal, and Diklah,

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Primeval and patriarchal genealogies section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term תּוֹלְדוֹת (toledot) - generations is central to understanding this passage's purpose. The Chronicler, writing to post-exilic Israel (c. 450-400 BCE), uses these genealogies not merely as historical records but as theological statements about covenant continuity and divine faithfulness.

The genealogical structure serves multiple purposes: (1) establishing Israel's connection to God's creatio n plan from Adam, (2) legitimizing post-exilic community's claim to covenant promises, (3) emphasizing Judah and Levi's special roles in God's redemptive plan, and (4) demonstrating that despite exile, God's covenant purposes continue. The selection and arrangement of names is intentional, highlighting God's sovereign plan through chosen lineage.

Chronicles diverges from Genesis and Samuel-Kings in its genealogical presentation, reflecting the Chronicler's distinct theological agenda. Where earlier texts focus on narrative history, Chronicles emphasizes continuity, legitimacy, and hope for restoration. This verse contributes to the larger argument that the post-exilic community is the rightful heir of God's ancient covenant promises.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Post-Exilic Context: The Chronicler wrote during the Persian period (450-400 BCE) to a community returned from Babylonian exile, struggling with identity and purpose. These genealogies answered crucial questions: Who are we? What is our relationship to ancient Israel? Do God's promises still apply to us?

The historical setting influences the text's emphasis on Genealogies from Adam to Edom - establishing covenant continuity. Ancient Near Eastern cultures valued genealogies for establishing land rights, royal legitimacy, and tribal identity. Chronicles' genealogies served similar functions while adding theological depth. The inclusion of specific names and details reflects the author's access to temple archives, royal records, and earlier biblical texts.

Archaeological evidence from Persian-period Judah shows a small, struggling community centered around Jerusalem and the rebuilt temple. The genealogies reinforced their connection to the glorious past and provided hope for future restoration through God's covenant faithfulness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding genealogies as theological statements rather than mere historical records change your reading of Chronicles and other biblical genealogies?
  2. What does this verse teach about God's faithfulness across generations, and how does that apply to your own family's spiritual legacy?
  3. How does God's sovereign plan through chosen lineage connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
וּלְעֵ֥בֶר1 of 14

“And unto Eber”

H5677

eber, the name of two patriarchs and four israelites

יֻלַּ֖ד2 of 14

“were born”

H3205

to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage

שְׁנֵ֣י3 of 14

“two”

H8147

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

בָנִ֑ים4 of 14

“sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

וְשֵׁ֥ם5 of 14

“name”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הָֽאֶחָ֞ד6 of 14

“of the one”

H259

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

פֶּ֗לֶג7 of 14

“was Peleg”

H6389

peleg, a son of shem

כִּ֤י8 of 14
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

בְיָמָיו֙9 of 14

“because in his days”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

נִפְלְגָ֣ה10 of 14

“was divided”

H6385

to split (literally or figuratively)

הָאָ֔רֶץ11 of 14

“the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְשֵׁ֥ם12 of 14

“name”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

אָחִ֖יו13 of 14

“and his brother's”

H251

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

יָקְטָֽן׃14 of 14

“was Joktan”

H3355

joktan, an arabian patriarch

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 1:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 1:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 10:21Genesis 10:25Genesis 11:16-17Numbers 24:24

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