1 Chronicles 7
BSB1 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron—four in all. 2 The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, the heads of their families. In the days of David, 22,600 descendants of Tola were numbered in their genealogies as mighty men of valor. 3 The son of Uzzi: Izrahiah. The sons of Izrahiah: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah. All five of them were chiefs. 4 In addition to them, according to their genealogy, they had 36,000 troops for battle, for they had many wives and children. 5 Their kinsmen belonging to all the families of Issachar who were mighty men of valor totaled 87,000, as listed in their genealogies. 6 The three sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, and Jediael. 7 The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri, heads of their families—five in all. There were 22,034 mighty men of valor listed in their genealogies. 8 The sons of Becher: Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth; all these were Becher’s sons. 9 Their genealogies were recorded according to the heads of their families—20,200 mighty men of valor. 10 The son of Jediael: Bilhan. The sons of Bilhan: Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar. 11 All these sons of Jediael were heads of their families, mighty men of valor; there were 17,200 fit for battle. 12 The Shuppites and Huppites were descendants of Ir, and the Hushites were descendants of Aher. 13 The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shallum —the descendants of Bilhah. 14 The descendants of Manasseh: Through his Aramean concubine, Asriel, as well as Machir the father of Gilead. 15 Machir took a wife from among the Huppites and Shuppites. The name of his sister was Maacah. Another descendant was named Zelophehad, who had only daughters. 16 Machir’s wife Maacah gave birth to a son, and she named him Peresh. His brother was named Sheresh, and his sons were Ulam and Rekem. 17 The son of Ulam: Bedan. These were the sons of Gilead son of Machir, the son of Manasseh. 18 His sister Hammolecheth gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah. 19 And these were the sons of Shemida: Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam. 20 The descendants of Ephraim: Shuthelah, Bered his son, Tahath his son, Eleadah his son, Tahath his son, 21 Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son. Ezer and Elead were killed by the natives of Gath, because they went down to steal their livestock. 22 Their father Ephraim mourned for many days, and his relatives came to comfort him. 23 And again he slept with his wife, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. So he named him Beriah, because tragedy had come upon his house. 24 His daughter was Sheerah, who built Lower and Upper Beth-horon, as well as Uzzen-sheerah. 25 Additionally, Rephah was his son, Resheph his son, Telah his son, Tahan his son, 26 Ladan his son, Ammihud his son, Elishama his son, 27 Nun his son, and Joshua his son. 28 Their holdings and settlements included Bethel and its villages, Naaran to the east, Gezer and its villages to the west, and Shechem and its villages as far as Ayyah and its villages. 29 And along the borders of Manasseh were Beth-shean, Taanach, Megiddo, and Dor, together with their villages. The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns. 30 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah. 31 The sons of Beriah: Heber, as well as Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith. 32 Heber was the father of Japhlet, Shomer, and Hotham, and of their sister Shua. 33 The sons of Japhlet: Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath. These were Japhlet’s sons. 34 The sons of Shemer: Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah, and Aram. 35 The sons of his brother Helem: Zophah, Imna, Shelesh, and Amal. 36 The sons of Zophah: Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah, 37 Bezer, Hod, Shamma, Shilshah, Ithran, and Beera. 38 The sons of Jether: Jephunneh, Pispa, and Ara. 39 The sons of Ulla: Arah, Hanniel, and Rizia. 40 All these were the descendants of Asher—heads of their families, choice and mighty men of valor, and chiefs among the leaders. The number of men fit for battle, recorded in their genealogies, was 26,000.
Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 7
- 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 7
- Themes from 1 Chronicles 7
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Chronicles 7
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
1 Chronicles 7 presents the genealogical records of various Israelite tribes, showcasing their descendants and family lines. The chapter begins with the tribe of Issachar, listing their sons and notable descendants (1 Chronicles 7:1-5). It then proceeds to the tribes of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 7:6-12), Naphtali (1 Chronicles 7:13), Manasseh (1 Chronicles 7:14-19), Ephraim (1 Chronicles 7:20-29), and Asher (1 Chronicles 7:30-40), providing insight into their family histories and notable figures. These genealogies serve as a testament to God's providence and faithfulness to His people throughout their history.
Context for the Chapter
1 Chronicles 7 is part of the larger narrative of 1 Chronicles, which focuses on the history of the Israelites from the perspective of the kingdom of Judah. This chapter fits into the section that deals with the genealogies of the tribes of Israel, providing a backdrop for understanding the political, social, and religious landscape of Israel during the period of the monarchy. The chapter's emphasis on genealogy also connects it to the broader biblical theme of God's covenant with Abraham and His promise to make him the father of a multitude of nations (Genesis 17:1-6).
Heart Application
This chapter reminds us of the importance of family and heritage in our lives. Just as the Israelites traced their lineage to understand their place within God's plan, we should reflect on our own spiritual heritage and the faith of our ancestors, recognizing how God has worked through generations to bring us to where we are today. It encourages us to appreciate the value of family and community in our walk with God.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter in 1 Chronicles lists the families and descendants of several of Israel's tribes, showing how they fit into the bigger story of God's people. It helps us understand the importance of family and where we come from, just like 1 Chronicles 7:2 talks about the sons of Tola and their descendants. By looking at these genealogies, we can see how God has been working in the lives of people for generations.
Voices from the Church
“The genealogies of Scripture are not mere dusty records, but living testaments to the faithfulness of God to His people across the ages.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“In the genealogies, we see the hand of God guiding the course of human history, weaving together the threads of individual lives into the rich tapestry of His covenant with humanity.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Tribe of Issachar (7:1-5) — This section details the sons and descendants of Issachar, highlighting their family lines and notable figures.
- The Tribe of Benjamin (7:6-12) — The genealogy of Benjamin is presented, including his sons and their descendants, with an emphasis on their population and leadership.
- The Tribe of Naphtali (7:13) — A brief genealogical record of Naphtali is provided, mentioning his sons and their descendants.
- The Tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim (7:14-29) — The chapter gives detailed accounts of the genealogies of Manasseh and Ephraim, including their sons, descendants, and notable figures, as well as their interactions and relationships.
- The Tribe of Asher (7:30-40) — The final section of the chapter is dedicated to the genealogy of Asher, listing his sons and their descendants, and providing insight into their family history and population.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- The chapter illustrates God's providence in guiding the history of Israel's tribes, as seen in the detailed genealogies and the emphasis on God's faithfulness across generations.
- Covenant
- The emphasis on family lineage and heritage in this chapter reflects the biblical theme of God's covenant with Abraham and His promise to make him the father of a multitude of nations.
- Redemption
- Although not directly addressed, the chapter's contribution to the larger narrative of God's plan of redemption is significant, as it provides a backdrop for understanding the lineage of Jesus Christ, the ultimate redeemer.
- Family and Community
- The chapter highlights the importance of family and community in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the value of understanding one's heritage and the faith of one's ancestors.
Lessons from 1 Chronicles 7
- The Importance of Family Heritage — This chapter teaches us that understanding our family heritage is crucial for appreciating our place within God's larger plan.
- God's Faithfulness Across Generations — The detailed genealogies demonstrate God's faithfulness to His people across generations, reassuring us of His ongoing presence and care in our lives.
- The Value of Community — The emphasis on the tribes and their descendants highlights the importance of community and the interconnectedness of God's people.
- Leadership and Organizational Structure — The chapter provides insight into the leadership roles within the Israelite tribes, illustrating the significance of responsible leadership in the community of faith.
- The Connection to God's Covenant — The genealogies in this chapter connect us back to God's covenant with Abraham, reminding us of our place within the larger story of God's redemption of humanity.
Themes from 1 Chronicles 7
- Genealogy and Heritage — The chapter explores the theme of genealogy and heritage, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's family lineage and its connection to God's larger plan.
- God's Providence — The detailed records of the Israelite tribes demonstrate God's providence in guiding their history and ensuring the fulfillment of His promises.
- Family and Community — The emphasis on the tribes and their descendants highlights the significance of family and community in the biblical narrative, underscoring the value of interpersonal relationships and collective identity.
- Leadership and Responsibility — The chapter touches on the theme of leadership, illustrating the importance of responsible leadership within the community of faith and the consequences of leadership decisions.
- Covenant and Redemption — The genealogies in this chapter contribute to the broader theme of God's covenant with Abraham and the ultimate redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ, highlighting the connection between the Old and New Testaments.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the emphasis on genealogy in this chapter reveal about the importance of family and heritage in the biblical narrative?
- How do the detailed records of the Israelite tribes' descendants contribute to our understanding of God's providence and faithfulness?
- In what ways can reflecting on our own spiritual heritage and the faith of our ancestors inform our walk with God today?
- What insights does this chapter provide into the organizational structure and leadership within the Israelite tribes?
- How does the chapter's focus on the tribes of Israel relate to the broader biblical theme of God's covenant with Abraham?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Tribe of Issachar (7:1-5)
| 7:1 | The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Jashub, and Shimron, four. |
| 7:2 | The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their fathers' houses. They were descended from Tola, and their kinsmen numbered 22,600. |
2. The Tribe of Benjamin (7:6-12)
| 7:6 | The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, and Jediael, three. |
| 7:7 | The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri, five, heads of fathers' houses, mighty warriors; and their kinsmen numbered 22,034. |
3. The Tribe of Naphtali (7:13)
| 7:13 | The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shallum, the descendants of Bilhah. |
4. The Tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim (7:14-29)
| 7:14 | The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead. |
| 7:15 | And Machir took a wife for Huppim and for Shuppim; the name of the one was Maacah; and the name of the other was Zelophehad; and Zelophehad had daughters. |
5. The Tribe of Asher (7:30-40)
| 7:30 | The sons of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, and Beriah, and their sister Serah. |
| 7:31 | The sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel, who fathered Birzaith. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7 so detailed?
The detailed genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7 serve to emphasize the importance of family lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative, highlighting God's faithfulness to His people across generations, as seen in verses like 1 Chronicles 7:2.
What is the significance of the tribe of Judah in the context of these genealogies?
Although the tribe of Judah is not extensively covered in 1 Chronicles 7, its mention in the broader context of the genealogies is significant because Jesus was born from the tribe of Judah, as noted in Hebrews 7:14 and Luke 3:23-38.
How do these genealogies relate to the New Testament and the story of Jesus Christ?
The genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7, while not directly mentioning Christ, contribute to the larger narrative that points to Jesus as the Messiah. They provide a backdrop for understanding the lineage of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament, tracing His ancestry back to Adam and underscoring His role as the ultimate descendant of Abraham and the tribes of Israel.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Chronicles 7:1 → Genesis 30:18 | The mention of the sons of Issachar in 1 Chronicles 7:1 connects back to Genesis 30:18, where Issachar's birth is recorded, illustrating the continuity of the biblical narrative. |
| 2 | 1 Chronicles 7:2 → Numbers 26:23-24 | The genealogy of Tola in 1 Chronicles 7:2 is also referenced in Numbers 26:23-24, demonstrating the consistency of the biblical records across different books. |
| 3 | 1 Chronicles 7:6 → Genesis 46:21 | The sons of Benjamin listed in 1 Chronicles 7:6 are first mentioned in Genesis 46:21, highlighting the genealogical connections between the early patriarchal narratives and the later historical accounts. |
| 4 | 1 Chronicles 7:13 → Genesis 46:24 | The brief mention of Naphtali in 1 Chronicles 7:13 is complemented by Genesis 46:24 and Numbers 26:48-50, which provide more details about his descendants. |
| 5 | 1 Chronicles 7:14 → Genesis 50:23 | The reference to Machir the father of Gilead in 1 Chronicles 7:14 connects to Genesis 50:23, where Machir is first introduced as a son of Manasseh, demonstrating the continuity of the genealogical records. |
| 6 | 1 Chronicles 7:20 → Numbers 26:35-37 | The descendants of Ephraim mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:20 are also listed in Numbers 26:35-37, showing the consistency of the genealogical information across different parts of the Bible. |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 7:30 → Genesis 46:17 | The sons of Asher in 1 Chronicles 7:30 are first recorded in Genesis 46:17, illustrating the genealogical connections between the early biblical narratives and the later historical accounts. |
| 8 | 1 Chronicles 7:1-5 → Luke 3:23-38 | The genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7, including those of Issachar, contribute to the larger biblical narrative that ultimately points to Jesus Christ, whose lineage is traced back to Adam in Luke 3:23-38. |
| 9 | 1 Chronicles 7:6-12 → Matthew 1:1-17 | The genealogy of Benjamin in 1 Chronicles 7:6-12 is part of the broader context that leads to the genealogy of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1:1-17, highlighting the connection between the Old and New Testaments. |
| 10 | 1 Chronicles 7:1-40 → John 1:1 | The detailed genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7, spanning the tribes of Israel, are part of the larger biblical narrative that points to Jesus Christ, the Word who was in the beginning, as stated in John 1:1. |
Sermons on 1 Chronicles 7
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
It Went Evil With His House. by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer reflects on the tragic fate of Ephraim's sons, who faced disaster due to their inherited impulses and tendencies, symbolized by the men of Gath. He emphasizes the import |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Chronicles 7
Matthew Henry's commentary on 1 Chronicles 7 reflects on the significance of the genealogies presented in this chapter, noting that they serve as a testament to God's providence and faithfulness to His people across generations. Henry emphasizes the importance of understanding one's heritage and the value of tracing one's lineage back to the patriarchs, as seen in the detailed accounts of the tribes of Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. He also highlights the practical lessons that can be gleaned from these genealogies, including the importance of family, community, and responsible leadership. By examining the connections between these Old Testament genealogies and the New Testament narrative, particularly the lineage of Jesus Christ, Henry underscores the unity and continuity of the biblical story, demonstrating how all parts of Scripture contribute to the rich tapestry of God's plan of redemption. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Pattern of Genealogical Recording
The chapter demonstrates a consistent pattern in recording the genealogies, starting with the sons of the tribe's founder and then detailing their descendants. This pattern highlights the importance of family and lineage in the biblical narrative.
Emphasis on Numbers and Population
Throughout the chapter, there is a notable emphasis on the population sizes of the different families and tribes, which may indicate the significance of numerical strength and growth in the context of God's promises to Israel.
Variety in Genealogical Detail
The level of detail provided for each tribe varies, with some receiving more extensive treatment than others. This variation might reflect the availability of historical records or the specific interests of the chronicler.