King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 3:5 Mean?

1 Chronicles 3:5 in the King James Version says “And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter o...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel: Shimea: or, Shammua 2.Sam.5.14. Bathshua: or, Bathsheba 2Sam.11.13. Ammiel: or, Eliam 2.Sam.11.3.”

1 Chronicles 3:5 · KJV

Context

3

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

4

These six were born unto him in Hebron; and there he reigned seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.

5

And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel: Shimea: or, Shammua 2.Sam.5.14. Bathshua: or, Bathsheba 2Sam.11.13. Ammiel: or, Eliam 2.Sam.11.3.

6

Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet, Elishama: or, Elishua 2Sa.5.15.

7

And Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Davidic royal succession section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term מַלְכוּת (malkhut) - kingdom 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 Eternal covenant with David's house.

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 David's descendants and royal succession. 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 Eternal covenant with David's house connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
וְאֵ֥לֶּה1 of 13
H428

these or those

נוּלְּדוּ2 of 13

“And these were born”

H3205

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

ל֖וֹ3 of 13
H0
בִּירֽוּשָׁלָ֑יִם4 of 13

“unto him in Jerusalem”

H3389

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

שִׁ֠מְעָא5 of 13

“Shimea”

H8092

shima, the name of four israelites

וְשׁוֹבָ֞ב6 of 13

“and Shobab”

H7727

shobab, the name of two israelites

וְנָתָ֤ן7 of 13

“and Nathan”

H5416

nathan, the name of five israelites

וּשְׁלֹמֹה֙8 of 13

“and Solomon”

H8010

shelomah, david's successor

אַרְבָּעָ֔ה9 of 13

“four”

H702

four

לְבַת10 of 13
H0
שׁ֖וּעַ11 of 13

“of Bathshua”

H1340

bath-shua

בַּת12 of 13

“the daughter”

H1323

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

עַמִּיאֵֽל׃13 of 13

“of Ammiel”

H5988

ammiel, the name of three or four 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 3:5 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 3:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 11:32 Samuel 12:24-25Matthew 1:6Luke 3:312 Samuel 7:2-42 Samuel 12:1-15

Places in This Verse

JerusalemSettlement · Modern: Jerusalem · 31.78°N, 35.23°E955 verses across 37 books
View all places in 1 Chronicles 3 →

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