King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 3:9 Mean?

1 Chronicles 3:9 in the King James Version says “These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.”

1 Chronicles 3:9 · KJV

Context

7

And Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

8

And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphelet, nine. Eliada: or, Beeliada IChro.14.7.

9

These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.

10

And Solomon's son was Rehoboam, Abia his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son, Abia: or, Abijam I.king.15.1.

11

Joram his son, Ahaziah his son, Joash his son, Ahaziah: or, Azariah 2.Chr.22.6.& 21.17.

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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 · 8 words
כֹּ֖ל1 of 8
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בְּֽנֵי2 of 8

“These were all the 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

דָוִ֑יד3 of 8

“of David”

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

מִלְּבַ֥ד4 of 8
H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

בְּֽנֵי5 of 8

“These were all the 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

פִֽילַגְשִׁ֖ים6 of 8

“of the concubines”

H6370

a concubine; also (masculine) a paramour

וְתָמָ֥ר7 of 8

“and Tamar”

H8559

tamar, the name of three women and a place

אֲחוֹתָֽם׃8 of 8

“their sister”

H269

a sister (used very widely [like h0251], literally and figuratively)

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 3:9 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 3:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 13:1-202 Samuel 5:13

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