King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 2:44 Mean?

1 Chronicles 2:44 in the King James Version says “And Shema begat Raham, the father of Jorkoam: and Rekem begat Shammai.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Shema begat Raham, the father of Jorkoam: and Rekem begat Shammai.”

1 Chronicles 2:44 · King James Version

Context

42

Now the sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel were, Mesha his firstborn, which was the father of Ziph; and the sons of Mareshah the father of Hebron.

43

And the sons of Hebron; Korah, and Tappuah, and Rekem, and Shema.

44

And Shema begat Raham, the father of Jorkoam: and Rekem begat Shammai.

45

And the son of Shammai was Maon: and Maon was the father of Bethzur.

46

And Ephah, Caleb's concubine, bare Haran, and Moza, and Gazez: and Haran begat Gazez.

Read 1 Chronicles 2 full chapter

Commentaries2 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Judah's lineage and David's royal line section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term יְהוּדָה (Yehudah) - praise 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 Messianic line through Judah to David.

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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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 of Judah and David's lineage - royal line emphasis. 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 Messianic line through Judah to David connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Compare 2 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְשֶׁ֣מַע1 of 10

“And Shema”

H8087

shema, the name of a place in palestine and of four israelites

הוֹלִ֥יד2 of 10

“begat”

H3205

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

אֶת3 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

רַ֖חַם4 of 10

“Raham”

H7357

racham, an israelite

אֲבִ֣י5 of 10

“the father”

H1

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

יָרְקֳעָ֑ם6 of 10

“of Jorkoam”

H3421

jorkeam, a place in palestine

וְרֶ֖קֶם7 of 10

“and Rekem”

H7552

rekem, the name of a place in palestine, also of a midianite and an israelite

הוֹלִ֥יד8 of 10

“begat”

H3205

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

אֶת9 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

שַׁמָּֽי׃10 of 10

“Shammai”

H8060

shammai, the name of three israelites

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 2:44 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Places in This Verse

JorkeamSettlement · Modern: Khirbet er Raqqa · 31.46°N, 35.12°E1 verse across 1 book
View all places in 1 Chronicles 2 →

Test Your Knowledge

1 Chronicles 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Chronicles Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 1 Chronicles 2 with CommentaryAll 1 Chronicles ChaptersComplete 1 Chronicles QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes