King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 3:1 Mean?

“Now these were the sons of David, which were born unto him in Hebron; the firstborn Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second Daniel, of Abigail the Carmelitess: Daniel: or, Chileab 2Sam.3.3.”

Context

Now these were the sons of David, which were born unto him in Hebron; the firstborn Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second Daniel, of Abigail the Carmelitess: Daniel: or, Chileab 2Sam.3.3.

The third, Absalom the son of Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur: the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith:

The fifth, Shephatiah of Abital: the sixth, Ithream by Eglah his wife.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**I.—The sons of David.**—This section is parallel to 2Samuel 3:2-5 (comp. 1Chronicles 3:1-4) and 2Samuel 5:14-16 (1Chronicles 3:5-9), with which comp. 1Chronicles 14:3-7. (1-4) The six sons born in Hebron. The sons and mothers agree with those of the parallel passage in Sam., with the one exception of the second son, who is here called Daniel, but in Samuel, Chileab. The LXX. (2Samuel 3:3) has Δαλουια, which may represent Heb. *Delaiah *(*Iah hath freed*)*,* though in our 1Chronicles 3:24 that name is spelt Δαλααια*,* or Δαλαια. In the present passage the Vatican LXX. has Δαμνιήλ, the Alex. Δαλουνια*.* Perhaps Daniel is a corruption of Delaiah, as this name recurs in the line of David. Chileab may have had a second name (comp. Uzziah-Azariah, Mattaniah-Zedekiah), especially as Chileab appears to be a nickname, meaning “dog.” (Comp. the Latin Canidius, Caninius, as a family name.) (1) **Amnon.**—For his story see 2 Samuel 13 **Of Ahinoam.**—Literally, *to Ahin.* (1Samuel 25:43). **The second Daniel of Abigail the Carmelitess.**—Better, *A second, Daniel, to Abigail, &c.* Sam. adds, “wife of Nabal the Carmelite.” (See 1 Samuel 25 for her story.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 3:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.