King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 8:38 Mean?
“And Azel had six sons, whose names are these, Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan. All these were the sons of Azel.”
Context
36
And Ahaz begat Jehoadah; and Jehoadah begat Alemeth, and Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begat Moza,
37
And Moza begat Binea: Rapha was his son, Eleasah his son, Azel his son:
38
And Azel had six sons, whose names are these, Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan. All these were the sons of Azel.
39
And the sons of Eshek his brother were, Ulam his firstborn, Jehush the second, and Eliphelet the third.
40
And the sons of Ulam were mighty men of valour, archers , and had many sons, and sons' sons, an hundred and fifty. All these are of the sons of Benjamin.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(38) **Bocheru.**—Some MSS. read “his firstborn,” with which, with different points, the LXX. and the Syriac agree. This seems right, as the conjunctive particle is wanting between Azrikam and the doubtful word, and Bocheru would be anomalous as a proper name. (See Note on 1Chronicles 8:40.)
**Azel.**—A place near Jerusalem was so called (Zechariah 14:5; Micah 1:11).
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 8:38 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.