King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 8:18 Mean?
“Ishmerai also, and Jezliah, and Jobab, the sons of Elpaal;”
1 Chronicles 8:18 · KJV
Context
16
And Michael, and Ispah, and Joha, the sons of Beriah;
17
And Zebadiah, and Meshullam, and Hezeki, and Heber,
18
Ishmerai also, and Jezliah, and Jobab, the sons of Elpaal;
19
And Jakim, and Zichri, and Zabdi,
20
And Elienai, and Zilthai, and Eliel,
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryIshmerai also, and Jezliah, and Jobab, the sons of Elpaal—this genealogical snippet lists three Benjamite names in the Elpaal clan. Ishmerai (יִשְׁמְרַי 'Yahweh guards'), Jezliah (יִזְלִיאָה 'God will draw out'), and Jobab (יוֹבָב 'a desert') demonstrate typical Hebrew naming patterns: theophoric names incorporating Yahweh/El (first two) alongside common nouns (third).
These obscure names appear nowhere else in Scripture—no heroic deeds, prophetic words, or dramatic failures recorded. Yet their inclusion in Chronicles testifies to a profound theological truth: every covenant member matters to God's record-keeping, not just heroes and kings. The Holy Spirit inspired preservation of otherwise forgotten names, suggesting God's encyclopedic memory of His people (Malachi 3:16; Philippians 4:3) and anticipating the Lamb's Book of Life (Revelation 21:27).
The name Jobab ('desert') appears as both an Edomite king (Genesis 36:33) and these Benjamite clan members, showing name-sharing across ethnic boundaries. That 'desert' became a personal name may reflect circumstances of birth (born during wilderness wandering?) or character traits (austere, hardy). Scripture's willingness to memorialize even 'desert'-named minor figures shows God values all His image-bearers, not merely the illustrious.
These obscure names appear nowhere else in Scripture—no heroic deeds, prophetic words, or dramatic failures recorded. Yet their inclusion in Chronicles testifies to a profound theological truth: every covenant member matters to God's record-keeping, not just heroes and kings. The Holy Spirit inspired preservation of otherwise forgotten names, suggesting God's encyclopedic memory of His people (Malachi 3:16; Philippians 4:3) and anticipating the Lamb's Book of Life (Revelation 21:27).
The name Jobab ('desert') appears as both an Edomite king (Genesis 36:33) and these Benjamite clan members, showing name-sharing across ethnic boundaries. That 'desert' became a personal name may reflect circumstances of birth (born during wilderness wandering?) or character traits (austere, hardy). Scripture's willingness to memorialize even 'desert'-named minor figures shows God values all His image-bearers, not merely the illustrious.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
This genealogy belongs to Benjamin's families dwelling in Jerusalem after some period of displacement (v. 28 says 'these dwelt in Jerusalem'). The context suggests post-exilic resettlement (Nehemiah 11 lists Benjamites who settled Jerusalem), though the genealogy extends back to pre-exilic ancestors. The Chronicler's preservation of these names validated the tribal claims of returning exiles, confirming their legitimate descent from ancient Benjamite clans despite 70-year Babylonian interruption.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's preservation of 'nobodies' like Ishmerai, Jezliah, and Jobab in Scripture encourage you about your own significance in His kingdom?
- What does the inclusion of seemingly unimportant genealogical details teach about God's comprehensive care for every member of His covenant community?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsבְּנֵ֥י4 of 5
“the sons”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
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 8:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.