King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 4:40 Mean?
“And they found fat pasture and good, and the land was wide , and quiet, and peaceable; for they of Ham had dwelt there of old.”
Context
38
These mentioned by their names were princes in their families: and the house of their fathers increased greatly. mentioned: Heb. coming
39
And they went to the entrance of Gedor, even unto the east side of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks.
40
And they found fat pasture and good, and the land was wide , and quiet, and peaceable; for they of Ham had dwelt there of old.
41
And these written by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and smote their tents, and the habitations that were found there, and destroyed them utterly unto this day, and dwelt in their rooms: because there was pasture there for their flocks.
42
And some of them, even of the sons of Simeon, five hundred men, went to mount Seir, having for their captains Pelatiah, and Neariah, and Rephaiah, and Uzziel, the sons of Ishi.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(40) **And they found fat pasture and good.**—If Gerar was the right reading in 1Chronicles 4:39, we might compare Genesis 26:17 *seq.*
**And the land was wide.**—Genesis 34:21. Literally, *broad of both hands*—*i.e.,* on both sides. An open plain is meant.
**And quiet and peaceable.**—Like Laish, which the Danites took by surprise (Judges 18:7; Judges 18:28).
**They of Ham had dwelt there of old.**—That is, *they who were then dwelling there were Hamites or Canaanites* (1Chronicles 1:8).
**Of old.**—Literally, *before *(*lephānîm*)*;* that is, *before the Simeonite invasion.*
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 4:40 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 4:40
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge