King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 4:1 Mean?

1 Chronicles 4:1 in the King James Version says “The sons of Judah; Pharez, Hezron, and Carmi, and Hur, and Shobal. Carmi: or, Chelubai Chap.2.9. or Caleb Chap.2.18.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The sons of Judah; Pharez, Hezron, and Carmi, and Hur, and Shobal. Carmi: or, Chelubai Chap.2.9. or Caleb Chap.2.18.”

1 Chronicles 4:1 · KJV

Context

1

The sons of Judah; Pharez, Hezron, and Carmi, and Hur, and Shobal. Carmi: or, Chelubai Chap.2.9. or Caleb Chap.2.18.

2

And Reaiah the son of Shobal begat Jahath; and Jahath begat Ahumai, and Lahad. These are the families of the Zorathites. Reaiah: or, Haroe Chap.2.52.

3

And these were of the father of Etam; Jezreel, and Ishma, and Idbash: and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi:

Read 1 Chronicles 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Judah's expansion and conquest section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term נַחֲלָה (nachalah) - inheritance 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 faithfulness in land promises.

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 of Judah's clans and territorial expansions. 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 faithfulness in land promises connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
בְּנֵ֖י1 of 7

“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

יְהוּדָ֑ה2 of 7

“of Judah”

H3063

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

פֶּ֧רֶץ3 of 7

“Pharez”

H6557

perets, the name of two israelites

חֶצְר֛וֹן4 of 7

“Hezron”

H2696

chetsron, the name of a place in palestine; also of two israelites

וְכַרְמִ֖י5 of 7

“and Carmi”

H3756

karmi, the name of three israelites

וְח֥וּר6 of 7

“and Hur”

H2354

chur, the name of four israelites and one midianite

וְשׁוֹבָֽל׃7 of 7

“and Shobal”

H7732

shobal, the name of an edomite and two 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 4:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 4:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 46:12Genesis 38:29Numbers 26:20-21Luke 3:33Matthew 1:3Ruth 4:18

Test Your Knowledge

1 Chronicles 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Chronicles Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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