King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 9:36 Mean?

1 Chronicles 9:36 in the King James Version says “And his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, and Kish, and Baal, and Ner, and Nadab,” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, and Kish, and Baal, and Ner, and Nadab,”

1 Chronicles 9:36 · KJV

Context

34

These chief fathers of the Levites were chief throughout their generations; these dwelt at Jerusalem.

35

And in Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon , Jehiel, whose wife's name was Maachah:

36

And his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, and Kish, and Baal, and Ner, and Nadab,

37

And Gedor, and Ahio, and Zechariah, and Mikloth.

38

And Mikloth begat Shimeam. And they also dwelt with their brethren at Jerusalem, over against their brethren.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Genealogical Significance: This verse appears within the Post-exilic restoration community section of Chronicles' genealogical framework. The Hebrew term שְׁאֵרִית (she'erit) - remnant 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 preserves faithful remnant.

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 Post-exilic returnees and Jerusalem's inhabitants. 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 preserves faithful remnant connect to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וּבְנ֥וֹ1 of 8

“son”

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

הַבְּכ֖וֹר2 of 8

“And his firstborn”

H1060

first-born; hence, chief

עַבְדּ֑וֹן3 of 8

“Abdon”

H5658

abdon, the name of a place in palestine and of four israelites

וְצ֣וּר4 of 8

“then Zur”

H6698

tsur, the name of a midianite and of an israelite

וְקִ֔ישׁ5 of 8

“and Kish”

H7027

kish, the name of five israelites

וּבַ֥עַל6 of 8

“and Baal”

H1168

baal, a phoenician deity

וְנֵ֖ר7 of 8

“and Ner”

H5369

ner, an israelite

וְנָדָֽב׃8 of 8

“and Nadab”

H5070

nadab, the name of four 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 9:36 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 9:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 9:391 Chronicles 8:33

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