King James Version

What Does Exodus 1:4 Mean?

Exodus 1:4 in the King James Version says “Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.”

Exodus 1:4 · KJV

Context

2

Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah,

3

Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin,

4

Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.

5

And all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob were seventy souls: for Joseph was in Egypt already. loins: Heb. thigh

6

And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Dan, and Naphtali, Gad, and Asher—The sons of the handmaids (Bilhah and Zilpah) complete the twelve. Though born of secondary status, these tribes receive equal inheritance in God's covenant economy. Dan (דָּן, "judge") would provide judges for Israel (Judges 13-16). Naphtali (נַפְתָּלִי, "my wrestling") recalls Rachel's struggle. Gad (גָּד, "fortune") and Asher (אָשֵׁר, "happy") represent blessing despite difficult origins. This inclusivity demonstrates that God's covenant extends beyond natural privilege to all He sovereignly chooses.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

These four tribes, though from concubines, occupied strategic territories in Canaan—Dan in the north, Naphtali in Galilee (where Jesus later ministered, Matthew 4:13-15), Gad east of Jordan, and Asher along the Mediterranean coast. Their inclusion validates all Israelites as covenant children.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's equal treatment of all twelve sons challenge worldly notions of status and privilege?
  2. In what ways does this passage affirm that spiritual heritage transcends social origins?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
דָּ֥ן1 of 4

“Dan”

H1835

dan, one of the sons of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory; likewise a place in palestine colonized by them

וְנַפְתָּלִ֖י2 of 4

“and Naphtali”

H5321

naphtali, a son of jacob, with the tribe descended from him, and its territory

גָּ֥ד3 of 4

“Gad”

H1410

gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet

וְאָשֵֽׁר׃4 of 4

“and Asher”

H836

asher, a son of jacob, and the tribe descended from him, with its territory; also a place in palestine

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 1:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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