1 Chronicles 2
BSB1 These were the sons of Israel: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, 2 Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. 3 The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, and Shelah. These three were born to him by Bath-shua the Canaanite. Er, Judah’s firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the LORD, who put him to death. 4 Tamar, Judah’s daughter-in-law, bore to him Perez and Zerah. Judah had five sons in all. 5 The sons of Perez: Hezron and Hamul. 6 The sons of Zerah: Zimri, Ethan, Heman, Calcol, and Dara —five in all. 7 The son of Carmi: Achar, who brought trouble upon Israel by violating the ban on devoted things. 8 The son of Ethan: Azariah. 9 The sons who were born to Hezron: Jerahmeel, Ram, and Caleb. 10 Ram was the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab was the father of Nahshon, a leader of the descendants of Judah. 11 Nahshon was the father of Salmon, and Salmon was the father of Boaz. 12 Boaz was the father of Obed, and Obed was the father of Jesse. 13 Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was born second, Shimea third, 14 Nethanel fourth, Raddai fifth, 15 Ozem sixth, and David seventh. 16 Their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. And the three sons of Zeruiah were Abishai, Joab, and Asahel. 17 Abigail was the mother of Amasa, whose father was Jether the Ishmaelite. 18 Caleb son of Hezron had children by his wife Azubah and by Jerioth. These were the sons of Azubah: Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon. 19 When Azubah died, Caleb married Ephrath, who bore to him Hur. 20 Hur was the father of Uri, and Uri was the father of Bezalel. 21 Later, Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead. He had married her when he was sixty years old, and she bore to him Segub. 22 Segub was the father of Jair, who had twenty-three cities in the land of Gilead. 23 But Geshur and Aram captured Havvoth-jair, along with Kenath and its sixty surrounding villages. All these were descendants of Machir the father of Gilead. 24 After Hezron died in Caleb-ephrathah, his wife Abijah bore to him Ashhur the father of Tekoa. 25 The sons of Jerahmeel the firstborn of Hezron: Ram his firstborn, Bunah, Oren, Ozem, and Ahijah. 26 Jerahmeel had another wife named Atarah, who was the mother of Onam. 27 The sons of Ram the firstborn of Jerahmeel: Maaz, Jamin, and Eker. 28 The sons of Onam: Shammai and Jada. The sons of Shammai: Nadab and Abishur. 29 Abishur’s wife was named Abihail, and she bore to him Ahban and Molid. 30 The sons of Nadab: Seled and Appaim. Seled died without children. 31 The son of Appaim: Ishi. The son of Ishi: Sheshan. The son of Sheshan: Ahlai. 32 The sons of Jada the brother of Shammai: Jether and Jonathan. Jether died without children. 33 The sons of Jonathan: Peleth and Zaza. These were the descendants of Jerahmeel. 34 Sheshan had no sons, but only daughters; but he did have an Egyptian servant named Jarha. 35 Sheshan gave his daughter in marriage to his servant Jarha, and she bore to him Attai. 36 Attai was the father of Nathan, Nathan was the father of Zabad, 37 Zabad was the father of Ephlal, Ephlal was the father of Obed, 38 Obed was the father of Jehu, Jehu was the father of Azariah, 39 Azariah was the father of Helez, Helez was the father of Elasah, 40 Elasah was the father of Sismai, Sismai was the father of Shallum, 41 Shallum was the father of Jekamiah, and Jekamiah was the father of Elishama. 42 The sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel: Mesha his firstborn, who was the father of Ziph, and Mareshah his second son, who was the father of Hebron. 43 The sons of Hebron: Korah, Tappuah, Rekem, and Shema. 44 Shema was the father of Raham the father of Jorkeam, and Rekem was the father of Shammai. 45 The son of Shammai was Maon, and Maon was the father of Beth-zur. 46 Caleb’s concubine Ephah was the mother of Haran, Moza, and Gazez. Haran was the father of Gazez. 47 The sons of Jahdai: Regem, Jotham, Geshan, Pelet, Ephah, and Shaaph. 48 Caleb’s concubine Maacah was the mother of Sheber and Tirhanah. 49 She was also the mother of Shaaph father of Madmannah, and of Sheva father of Machbenah and Gibea. Caleb’s daughter was Acsah. 50 These were the descendants of Caleb. The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim, 51 Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth-gader. 52 These were the descendants of Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim: Haroeh, half the Manahathites, 53 and the clans of Kiriath-jearim—the Ithrites, Puthites, Shumathites, and Mishraites. From these descended the Zorathites and Eshtaolites. 54 The descendants of Salma: Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Atroth-beth-joab, half the Manahathites, the Zorites, 55 and the clans of the scribes who lived at Jabez—the Tirathites, Shimeathites, and Sucathites. These are the Kenites who came from Hammath, the father of the house of Rechab.
Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 2
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Chronicles 2
- Themes from 1 Chronicles 2
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Chronicles 2
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
1 Chronicles 2 presents the genealogy of the twelve tribes of Israel, beginning with the sons of Jacob. The chapter lists the descendants of Judah, including Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, and Nahshon, as well as the family of Caleb. It also mentions the descendants of Jerahmeel, including Ram and his sons. The chapter highlights the importance of understanding one's heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4, where it is written, 'The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, and Shelah; these three were born to him by the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess. Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord put him to death.' The genealogy continues with the descendants of Perez, including Hezron and Ram, and concludes with the family of Caleb, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:18-20, which states, 'Caleb son of Hezron had children by his wife Azubah and by Jerioth. These were her sons: Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon. When Azubah died, Caleb married Ephrath, who bore him Hur.'
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Chronicles, which explores the history of the Israelites from the death of King Saul to the reign of King David. The genealogy presented in this chapter sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will examine the reign of David and the establishment of the kingdom of Israel. The chapter is also connected to the larger biblical narrative, as it points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah.
Heart Application
As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people. We are called to trust in God's promises and to be faithful to Him, just as Caleb was faithful to God, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24. We are also encouraged to remember that our faith is not just about our individual experiences, but about our connection to the larger community of believers, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about the family tree of the Israelites, starting with the sons of Jacob. It shows how God was faithful to His people and kept His promises to them. The chapter also mentions important leaders like Nahshon and Caleb, who were faithful to God. As seen in 1 Chronicles 2:10, Nahshon was a leader of the sons of Judah, and in 1 Chronicles 2:18-20, Caleb is mentioned as a descendant of Judah.
Voices from the Church
“The genealogy of the Bible is not merely a list of names, but a testament to the faithfulness of God to His people.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The story of Caleb is a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and bravery in the face of adversity, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Sons of Jacob (1 Chronicles 2:1-2) — The chapter begins by listing the twelve sons of Jacob, who would become the twelve tribes of Israel.
- The Descendants of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:3-12) — The chapter then lists the descendants of Judah, including Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, and Nahshon.
- The Family of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:18-20) — The chapter also mentions the family of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who was known for his faithfulness and bravery.
- The Descendants of Jerahmeel (1 Chronicles 2:25-33) — The chapter concludes by listing the descendants of Jerahmeel, including Ram and his sons.
- Conclusion (1 Chronicles 2:34-41) — The chapter ends with a list of additional descendants, highlighting the faithfulness of God to His people
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- This chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty over the lives of individuals and nations, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord put him to death.
- The Importance of Faithfulness
- The chapter highlights the importance of faithfulness and bravery, as seen in the story of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who was known for his faithfulness and bravery, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24
- The Promise of Redemption
- The chapter points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah, who would redeem God's people from their sin, as seen in Matthew 1:3-4 and Luke 3:33
- The Faithfulness of God
- The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, despite their sin and disobedience, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned
Lessons from 1 Chronicles 2
- The Importance of Faithfulness — The chapter highlights the importance of faithfulness and bravery, as seen in the story of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who was known for his faithfulness and bravery, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty over the lives of individuals and nations, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord put him to death
- The Promise of Redemption — The chapter points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah, who would redeem God's people from their sin, as seen in Matthew 1:3-4 and Luke 3:33
- The Faithfulness of God — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, despite their sin and disobedience, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned
- The Importance of Lineage — The chapter emphasizes the significance of understanding one's heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned
Themes from 1 Chronicles 2
- The Faithfulness of God — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, despite their sin and disobedience, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned
- The Importance of Lineage — The chapter emphasizes the significance of understanding one's heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty over the lives of individuals and nations, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord put him to death
- The Promise of Redemption — The chapter points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah, who would redeem God's people from their sin, as seen in Matthew 1:3-4 and Luke 3:33
- The Importance of Faithfulness — The chapter highlights the importance of faithfulness and bravery, as seen in the story of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who was known for his faithfulness and bravery, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24
Questions for Meditation
- What does this chapter reveal about the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage?
- How does the story of Caleb encourage us to be faithful to God?
- What does the chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God over the lives of individuals and nations?
- How does the genealogy in this chapter point to the coming of Jesus Christ?
- What lessons can we learn from the faithfulness of God to His people, as seen in this chapter?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Sons of Jacob (1 Chronicles 2:1-2)
| 2:1 | The chapter begins by listing the twelve sons of Jacob, who would become the twelve tribes of Israel |
| 2:2 | The sons of Jacob are listed in the order of their birth, with Reuben as the firstborn |
2. The Descendants of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:3-12)
| 2:3 | The chapter lists the descendants of Judah, including Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, and Nahshon |
| 2:4 | The descendants of Judah are listed, including Perez, who was born to Judah by the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess |
| 2:5 | The descendants of Judah continue to be listed, including Hezron and Ram |
| 2:6 | The descendants of Ram are listed, including Amminadab and Nahshon |
| 2:7 | The descendants of Nahshon are listed, including Salma and Boaz |
| 2:8 | The descendants of Boaz are listed, including Obed and Jesse |
| 2:9 | The descendants of Jesse are listed, including David and his brothers |
| 2:10 | The sons of Ram are listed, including Amminadab, and Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, a leader of the sons of Judah |
| 2:11 | The descendants of Nahshon are listed, including Salma and Boaz |
| 2:12 | The descendants of Boaz are listed, including Obed and Jesse |
3. The Family of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:18-20)
| 2:18 | The chapter mentions the family of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who was known for his faithfulness and bravery |
| 2:19 | Caleb son of Hezron had children by his wife Azubah and by Jerioth |
| 2:20 | These were her sons: Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon |
4. The Descendants of Jerahmeel (1 Chronicles 2:25-33)
| 2:25 | The chapter lists the descendants of Jerahmeel, including Ram and his sons |
| 2:26 | The descendants of Jerahmeel continue to be listed, including Ram and his sons |
| 2:27 | The descendants of Ram are listed, including his sons |
| 2:28 | The descendants of Ram continue to be listed, including his sons |
| 2:29 | The descendants of Ram are listed, including his sons |
| 2:30 | The descendants of Ram continue to be listed, including his sons |
| 2:31 | The descendants of Ram are listed, including his sons |
| 2:32 | The descendants of Ram continue to be listed, including his sons |
| 2:33 | The descendants of Ram are listed, including his sons |
5. Conclusion (1 Chronicles 2:34-41)
| 2:34 | The chapter concludes with a list of additional descendants, highlighting the faithfulness of God to His people |
| 2:35 | The descendants continue to be listed, including the sons of Sheshan |
| 2:36 | The descendants of Sheshan are listed, including his sons |
| 2:37 | The descendants of Sheshan continue to be listed, including his sons |
| 2:38 | The descendants of Sheshan are listed, including his sons |
| 2:39 | The descendants of Sheshan continue to be listed, including his sons |
| 2:40 | The descendants of Sheshan are listed, including his sons |
| 2:41 | The chapter concludes with a list of additional descendants, highlighting the faithfulness of God to His people |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the genealogy in 1 Chronicles 2?
The genealogy in 1 Chronicles 2 is significant because it highlights the importance of understanding one's spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4 and 1 Chronicles 2:10-12
Who is Caleb and why is he important?
Caleb is a descendant of Judah, known for his faithfulness and bravery, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24. He is important because he demonstrates the importance of faithfulness and bravery in the face of adversity
How does the chapter point to the coming of Jesus Christ?
The chapter points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah, who would redeem God's people from their sin, as seen in Matthew 1:3-4 and Luke 3:33
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Chronicles 2:1 → Genesis 29:32-35 | The sons of Jacob are listed in both Genesis 29:32-35 and 1 Chronicles 2:1-2 |
| 2 | 1 Chronicles 2:3 → Genesis 38:1-30 | The story of Judah and his sons is told in Genesis 38:1-30 and listed in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4 |
| 3 | 1 Chronicles 2:10 → Matthew 1:3-4 | The descendants of Judah are listed in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12 and Matthew 1:3-4 |
| 4 | 1 Chronicles 2:18 → Numbers 13:6 | Caleb is mentioned in both Numbers 13:6 and 1 Chronicles 2:18-20 |
| 5 | 1 Chronicles 2:25 → 1 Samuel 27:6 | The descendants of Jerahmeel are listed in 1 Chronicles 2:25-33 and mentioned in 1 Samuel 27:6 |
| 6 | 1 Chronicles 2:34 → 1 Chronicles 4:21 | The descendants of Sheshan are listed in 1 Chronicles 2:34-41 and mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:21 |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 2:1 → Genesis 49:1-33 | The sons of Jacob are listed in both Genesis 49:1-33 and 1 Chronicles 2:1-2 |
| 8 | 1 Chronicles 2:10 → Luke 3:33 | The descendants of Judah are listed in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12 and Luke 3:33 |
| 9 | 1 Chronicles 2:18 → Joshua 14:6-15 | Caleb is mentioned in both Joshua 14:6-15 and 1 Chronicles 2:18-20 |
| 10 | 1 Chronicles 2:25 → 1 Samuel 30:26-31 | The descendants of Jerahmeel are listed in 1 Chronicles 2:25-33 and mentioned in 1 Samuel 30:26-31 |
Sermons on 1 Chronicles 2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Jabez a Lonely Man by John Phillips | In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing a cartoon that appeared in an American newspaper during the time of the moon landing. The cartoon depicts two astronauts on Mars, |
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Our Daily Homily - 1 Chronicles by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer reflects on the genealogies in 1 Chronicles, emphasizing the significance of each name as a testament to God's love and purpose for humanity. He warns that while our liv |
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God's Dealing With Sin and the Sinner by Horatius Bonar | Horatius Bonar emphasizes God's serious and decisive approach to sin and the sinner, illustrated through the fate of Er, the first-born of Judah, who was slain by God for his wicke |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Chronicles 2
In this chapter, we see the faithfulness of God to His people, despite their sin and disobedience. The genealogy presented here is not just a list of names, but a testament to the sovereignty of God over the lives of individuals and nations. We are reminded of the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people. The story of Caleb encourages us to be faithful to God, even in the face of adversity. The chapter points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate descendant of Judah, who would redeem God's people from their sin. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The genealogy of the Bible is not merely a list of names, but a history of the providence of God, and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Lineage
The chapter emphasizes the significance of understanding one's heritage and the faithfulness of God to His people. This is evident in 1 Chronicles 2:3-4, where the sons of Judah are listed, and in 1 Chronicles 2:10-12, where the descendants of Ram are mentioned.
The Faithfulness of God
The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, despite their sin and disobedience, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:3, where it is written, 'The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, and Shelah; these three were born to him by the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess. Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord put him to death.'
The Mention of Caleb
The chapter highlights the importance of faithfulness and bravery, as seen in the story of Caleb, a descendant of Judah, who is known for his faithfulness and bravery, as seen in Numbers 13:6 and 14:24



