1 Chronicles 5:1

1 Chronicles 5:1 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

These were the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. Though he was the firstborn, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, because Reuben defiled his father’s bed. So he is not reckoned according to birthright.

King James Version KJV

Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father’s bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.

American Standard Version ASV

And the sons of Reuben the first-born of Israel (for he was the first-born; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father’s couch, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel; and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And the sons of Reuben, the oldest son of Israel, (for he was the oldest son, but, because he made his father's bride-bed unclean, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph, the son of Israel; but he is not to be given the place of the oldest.

Free Bible Version FBV

The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. (Though he was the firstborn, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel because he had defiled his father's bed. That is why Reuben is not listed in the genealogy according to birthright,

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

The sonnes also of Reuben the eldest sonne of Israel (for he was the eldest, but had defiled his fathers bed, therefore his birthright was giuen vnto the sonnes of Ioseph the sonne of Israel, so that the genealogie is not rekoned after his birthright.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

As to sons of Reuben, first-born of Israel — for he [is] the first-born, and on account of his profaning the couch of his father hath his birthright been given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, and [he is] not to be reckoned by genealogy for the birthright,

World English Bible WEB

The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (for he was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s couch, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel; and the genealogy is not to be listed according to the birthright.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Now the sons of Reuben the first-born of Israel, (for he was the first-born; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birth-right was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birth-right.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Now the sons of Ruben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was his firstborn: but forasmuch as he defiled his father’s bed, his first birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel, and he was not accounted for the firstborn.

Translation for Translators T4T

Reuben was the oldest son of Jacob. Therefore, he should have received the special rights/privileges that belonged to firstborn sons. But he had sex with his father’s slave wife, so his father gave the rights if a firstborn son to the sons of Reubers younger brother Joseph. And in the family records, Reuben is not mentioned first, like the firstborn sons always are.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Chronicles 5:1

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Chronicles 5:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וּ/בְנֵ֨י רְאוּבֵ֥ן בְּכֽוֹר יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ כִּ֣י ה֣וּא הַ/בְּכוֹר֒ וּֽ/בְ/חַלְּל/וֹ֙ יְצוּעֵ֣י אָבִ֔י/ו נִתְּנָה֙ בְּכֹ֣רָת֔/וֹ לִ/בְנֵ֥י יוֹסֵ֖ף בֶּן יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְ/לֹ֥א לְ/הִתְיַחֵ֖שׂ לַ/בְּכֹרָֽה

וּ/בְנֵ֨י bên H1121 son Conj | N-mp

רְאוּבֵ֥ן Rᵉʼûwbên H7205 Reuben N-proper

בְּכֽוֹר bᵉkôwr H1060 firstborn N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

כִּ֣י kîy H3588 for Conj

ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Pron

הַ/בְּכוֹר֒ bᵉkôwr H1060 firstborn Art | N-ms

וּֽ/בְ/חַלְּל/וֹ֙ châlal H2490 to bore Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a | Suff

יְצוּעֵ֣י yâtsûwaʻ H3326 bed N-mp

אָבִ֔י/ו ʼâb H1 father N-ms | Suff

נִתְּנָה֙ nâthan H5414 to give V-Niphal-Perf-3fs

בְּכֹ֣רָת֔/וֹ bᵉkôwrâh H1062 birthright N-cs | Suff

לִ/בְנֵ֥י bên H1121 son Prep | N-mp

יוֹסֵ֖ף Yôwçêph H3130 Joseph N-proper

בֶּן bên H1121 son N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

לְ/הִתְיַחֵ֖שׂ yâchas H3187 to enroll Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a

לַ/בְּכֹרָֽה bᵉkôwrâh H1062 birthright Prep | N-cs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Chronicles 5:1

וּ/בְנֵ֨י bên H1121 "son" Conj | N-mp

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

רְאוּבֵ֥ן Rᵉʼûwbên H7205 "Reuben" N-proper

Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, and the ancestor of the tribe of Reuben. He is mentioned in Genesis as the brother of Simeon, Levi, and Judah, and the father of Hanoch and Pallu.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Reuben living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.32; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Hanoch (H2585J), Pallu (H6396), Hezron (H2696) and Carmi (H3756) § Reuben = "behold a son" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Leah 2) the tribe descended from Reuben 3) the territory inhabited by the tribe of Reuben

Usage: Occurs in 68 OT verses. KJV: Reuben. See also: Genesis 29:32; Deuteronomy 27:13; Ezekiel 48:31.

בְּכֽוֹר bᵉkôwr H1060 "firstborn" N-ms

In the Bible, this word refers to the firstborn child or animal, often holding a special status or responsibility. It appears in stories like Genesis and Exodus, highlighting the importance of birth order. The KJV translates it as 'eldest' or 'firstborn'.

Definition: 1) firstborn, firstling 1a) of men and women 1b) of animals 1c) noun of relation (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 96 OT verses. KJV: eldest (son), firstborn(-ling). See also: Genesis 10:15; Deuteronomy 21:17; Psalms 78:51.

יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

כִּ֣י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

הַ/בְּכוֹר֒ bᵉkôwr H1060 "firstborn" Art | N-ms

Definition: 1) firstborn, firstling 1a) of men and women 1b) of animals 1c) noun of relation (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 96 OT verses. KJV: eldest (son), firstborn(-ling). See also: Genesis 10:15; Deuteronomy 21:17; Psalms 78:51.

וּֽ/בְ/חַלְּל/וֹ֙ châlal H2490 "to bore" Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a | Suff

This Hebrew word means to profane or begin, like starting something new or breaking a rule. It appears in the Bible when someone disrespects God or a person, like in Ezekiel 22:26. It can also mean to play music or start a project.

Definition: 1) to wound (fatally), bore through, pierce, bore 1a) (Qal) to pierce 1b) (Pual) to be slain 1c) (Poel) to wound, pierce 1d) (Poal) to be wounded

Usage: Occurs in 132 OT verses. KJV: begin ([idiom] men began), defile, [idiom] break, defile, [idiom] eat (as common things), [idiom] first, [idiom] gather the grape thereof, [idiom] take inheritance, pipe, player on instruments, pollute, (cast as) profane (self), prostitute, slay (slain), sorrow, stain, wound. See also: Genesis 4:26; Ezra 3:8; Psalms 55:21.

יְצוּעֵ֣י yâtsûwaʻ H3326 "bed" N-mp

A flat surface or a bed, often referring to a raised platform or a storey in a building, as described in the books of Kings and Chronicles. It can also mean a couch or a chamber, depending on the context. This term is used to describe various types of structures.

Definition: couch, bed

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: bed, chamber, couch. See also: Genesis 49:4; 1 Chronicles 5:1; Psalms 63:7.

אָבִ֔י/ו ʼâb H1 "father" N-ms | Suff

In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.

Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)

Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.

נִתְּנָה֙ nâthan H5414 "to give" V-Niphal-Perf-3fs

This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.

Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon

Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.

בְּכֹ֣רָת֔/וֹ bᵉkôwrâh H1062 "birthright" N-cs | Suff

The Hebrew word for birthright, referring to the rights and privileges of the firstborn child. It's a key concept in biblical stories like Esau and Jacob, where the birthright holds significant value. The KJV translates it as 'birthright' or 'firstborn'.

Definition: birthright, primogeniture, right of the first-born

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: birthright, firstborn(-ling). See also: Genesis 4:4; Genesis 43:33; 1 Chronicles 5:2.

לִ/בְנֵ֥י bên H1121 "son" Prep | N-mp

Definition: : child/son

יוֹסֵ֖ף Yôwçêph H3130 "Joseph" N-proper

Joseph means Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites, including the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was a significant figure in the book of Genesis and the story of his brothers. He became a leader in Egypt.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.14 § Joseph = "Jehovah has added" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel 2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies 3) a son of Asaph 4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah

Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.

בֶּן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

Definition: : child/son

יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

לְ/הִתְיַחֵ֖שׂ yâchas H3187 "to enroll" Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a

To enroll means to officially record or list someone's name, often for genealogical purposes. This word is used to describe the process of reckoning or numbering people in a family tree or genealogy.

Definition: (Hithpael) to reckon genealogically, enrol on a genealogy, enrol, be enrolled

Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: (number after, number throughout the) genealogy (to be reckoned), be reckoned by genealogies. See also: 1 Chronicles 4:33; 2 Chronicles 12:15; Nehemiah 7:64.

לַ/בְּכֹרָֽה bᵉkôwrâh H1062 "birthright" Prep | N-cs

Definition: birthright, primogeniture, right of the first-born

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: birthright, firstborn(-ling). See also: Genesis 4:4; Genesis 43:33; 1 Chronicles 5:2.

Study Notes — 1 Chronicles 5:1

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Context
Cross References
1 Chronicles 5:1 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Cambridge Bible on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Barnes' Notes on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1
Sermons on 1 Chronicles 5:1

Context — The Descendants of Reuben

1These were the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. Though he was the firstborn, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, because Reuben defiled his father’s bed. So he is not reckoned according to birthright.

2And though Judah prevailed over his brothers and a ruler came from him, the birthright belonged to Joseph. 3The sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Genesis 35:22	While Israel was living in that region, Reuben went in and slept with his father’s concubine Bilhah, and Israel heard about it. Jacob had twelve sons:
2	Genesis 29:32	And Leah conceived and gave birth to a son, and she named him Reuben, for she said, “The LORD has seen my affliction. Surely my husband will love me now.”
3	Genesis 48:15–22	Then he blessed Joseph and said: “May the God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, the God who has been my shepherd all my life to this day, the angel who has redeemed me from all harm— may He bless these boys. And may they be called by my name and the names of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they grow into a multitude upon the earth.” When Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim’s head, he was displeased and took his father’s hand to move it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s. “Not so, my father!” Joseph said. “This one is the firstborn; put your right hand on his head.” But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!” he said. “He too shall become a people, and he too shall be great; nevertheless, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his offspring shall become a multitude of nations.” So that day Jacob blessed them and said: “By you shall Israel pronounce this blessing: ‘May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh.’” So he put Ephraim before Manasseh. Then Israel said to Joseph, “Look, I am about to die, but God will be with you and bring you back to the land of your fathers. And to you, as one who is above your brothers, I give the ridge of land that I took from the Amorites with my sword and bow.”
4	Genesis 49:3–4	Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, excelling in honor, excelling in power. Uncontrolled as the waters, you will no longer excel, because you went up to your father’s bed, onto my couch, and defiled it.
5	1 Chronicles 26:10	Hosah the Merarite also had sons: Shimri the first (although he was not the firstborn, his father had appointed him as the first),
6	Exodus 6:14	These were the heads of their fathers’ houses: The sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel, were Hanoch and Pallu, Hezron and Carmi. These were the clans of Reuben.
7	Deuteronomy 21:17	Instead, he must acknowledge the firstborn, the son of his unloved wife, by giving him a double portion of all that he has. For that son is the firstfruits of his father’s strength; the right of the firstborn belongs to him.
8	1 Samuel 16:6–11	When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and said, “Surely here before the LORD is His anointed.” But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” Then Jesse called Abinadab and presented him to Samuel, who said, “The LORD has not chosen this one either.” Next Jesse presented Shammah, but Samuel said, “The LORD has not chosen this one either.” Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel told him, “The LORD has not chosen any of these.” And Samuel asked him, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied, “but he is tending the sheep.” “Send for him,” Samuel replied. “For we will not sit down to eat until he arrives.”
9	Deuteronomy 27:20	‘Cursed is he who sleeps with his father’s wife, for he has violated his father’s marriage bed.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’
10	Genesis 25:23	and He declared to her: “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.”

1 Chronicles 5:1 Summary

This verse tells us that Reuben, the firstborn son of Israel, lost his special birthright because of his sinful actions. He had done something very wrong by defiling his father's bed, which meant that he could no longer be considered the firstborn son with all the privileges that came with it (as seen in Genesis 35:22). Instead, the birthright was given to the sons of Joseph. This teaches us that our actions have consequences, and that we must strive to live a life of obedience and righteousness, just as Joseph did in Genesis 39:9. By following God's commands and living a life of faith, we can receive the blessings that He has in store for us, just as promised in Jeremiah 29:11.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Reuben lose his birthright?

Reuben lost his birthright because he defiled his father's bed, as stated in Genesis 35:22 and Genesis 49:4, which resulted in the birthright being given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel.

What is the significance of the birthright in the Bible?

The birthright was a significant privilege in biblical times, granting the firstborn son a double portion of the inheritance and leadership roles, as seen in Deuteronomy 21:17 and Genesis 25:31.

How does this verse relate to the overall story of the Bible?

This verse is part of the larger narrative of God's covenant with Israel and the establishment of the tribes, which is central to the story of the Bible, as seen in Genesis 12:1-3 and Exodus 2:24-25.

What can we learn from Reuben's mistake?

We can learn from Reuben's mistake that our actions have consequences, and that disobedience can result in loss of privilege and blessing, as seen in Proverbs 10:9 and Galatians 6:7-8.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I may be forfeiting my spiritual birthright through disobedience or reckless behavior?
How can I ensure that I am honoring God with my actions and choices, just as Joseph did in Genesis 39:9?
What are some areas in my life where I need to seek forgiveness and restoration, just as Reuben should have done after his mistake?
How can I apply the principle of Galatians 6:7-8 to my life, sowing seeds of obedience and righteousness in order to reap a harvest of blessing?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Chronicles 5:1

Now the sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel,.... Are as follow in 1 Chronicles 5:3 where the account begins; for what comes between this and that is in a parenthesis: for he was the firstborn; of

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Chronicles 5:1

Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1

1 CHAPTER 5 The line of Reuben unto the captivity: their war against the Hagarites, . The chief men and habitation of Gad, . The number of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, that marched against the Hagarites, and overcame them, . They are all carried captive into Assyria, ,26. For he was the first-born: these and the following words , which are enclosed within a parenthesis, seem to be inserted here as an answer to a secret objection, or as a reason why Reuben’ s genealogy was not set down first, but Judah’ s was put before it, which is double; the first follows immediately, the other is in the last clause of this verse. His birthright, i.e. the right of the first-born, which, although it contain in it something of dominion, ,32, which Joseph had in his own person, Genesis 49; yet principally consisted in having a double portion, as appears from , which Joseph enjoyed both in his person and in his posterity, which had two parts of twelve in Canaan. And it is Joseph’ s posterity which is here considered. Unto the sons of Joseph; Ephraim and Manasseh, each having a distinct portion. The sons of Israel: this is added emphatically, because they were reputed and treated as if they had been the immediate sons of Jacob; of which see . The genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright: this is the second reason, which showeth both why Reuben’ s genealogy was not first mentioned; and if another tribe was to be ranked before it, why that was Judah, and not Joseph, as it might seem most fit for the former reason; because, saith he, the order of their genealogy was not to be ruled by the birthright but by a higher privilege, which was given to Judah, and which here follows.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1

1 Chronicles 5:1 Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he [was] the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father’ s bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright. Ver. 1. But, forasmuch as he defiled his father’ s bed.] But, forasmuch as he defiled his father’ s bed.] He might well say as Lysimachus did, when for a draught of water he had parted with his kingdom, Ah, for how short a (sinful) pleasure, how great privileges and blessings have I forfeited! His birthright.] That is, His double portion of inheritance: as for the dignity due to him, it was given to Judah. Joseph the son of Israel,] i.e., His best beloved son.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1

I.—THE (1 Chronicles 5:1-10). (1) Reuben the firstborn of Israel.—See Genesis 49:3 : “Reuben, my firstborn thou! my strength, and firstfruits of my manhood;” also Genesis 29:32. For he was the firstborn.—The parenthesis is an assertion of the legitimacy of the Davidic monarchy, as against the fact that both Reuben and Joseph had claims prior to those of Judah. He defiled his father’s bed.—Genesis 49:4, Jacob’s curse: “Bubbling like the waters, excel thou not! For thou wentest up thy father’s couches. Then thou defiledst my bed” (See Genesis 35:22). His birthright was given to the sons of Joseph.—The reading of some MSS., and the Syriac and Arabic, “to Joseph,” is probably original. This transfer of the rights of primogeniture is not elsewhere mentioned. It is, however, a fair inference from Jacob’s curse, and from the special blessing of Joseph (Genesis 49:22-26) and of his two sons (Genesis 48:15-20), considered in the light of historical fulfilment. Ephraim was always a leading tribe (Judges 2:9; Judges 4:5; Judges 5:14; Judges 8:1-2; Judges 12:1; Judges 12:15). And the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.—Rather, though he was not to be registered as firstborn (literally, according to the primogeniture). The subject is Joseph or the sons of Joseph, who received the forfeited rights of Reuben, but not the first place in lists of the tribes. What those rights were is defined by Deuteronomy 21:15-17, which rules that the son of a hated wife—if he be firstborn (the case of Reuben, son of Leah), shall inherit a double portion, “for he is the firstfruits of his strength, the right of the firstborn is his;” words obviously referring to Genesis 49:4-5.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1

CHAPTER V The genealogies of Reuben, 1-10. Of Gad, 11-17. The exploits of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, 18-22. The genealogy of the half tribe of Manasseh, 23, 24. The idolatry of these tribes and their captivity by the Assyrians, 25, 26. NOTES ON CHAP. V Verse 1. The sons of Reuben the first-born] As Reuben was the eldest son of Jacob, why was not his genealogy reviewed first? This verse answers the question; he lost the birth-right because of the transgression mentioned Genesis 35:22; Genesis 49:4, and the precedency was given to Judah; from him therefore came the chief ruler. This appears to be the meaning of the place.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Chronicles 5:1

Ch. 1 Chronicles 5:1-10. The Genealogy of Reuben 1. he defiled] Genesis 35:22; Genesis 49:4. his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph] Cp. Genesis 48:5, “Ephraim and Manasseh, even as Reuben and Simeon, shall be mine”; words of Jacob which might be interpreted to mean that Reuben and Simeon are to be disinherited, and that Ephraim and Manasseh are to take their places. the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright] i.e. though the birthright of Reuben has been given to Joseph, yet the genealogy of Joseph is not to be given before that of Reuben. In 1 Chronicles 5:2 it is shewn that Joseph, though possessing the birthright, was excelled by Judah. In this confusion of claims the natural order is followed and the genealogy of Reuben is given first.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Chronicles 5:1

His birthright was given ... - In particular, the right of the first-born to a double inheritance Deuteronomy 21:17 was conferred on Joseph, both by the expressed will of Jacob Genesis 48:22 and in

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Chronicles 5:1

1, 2. —His birthright was given unto… Joseph — This might be readily inferred from the censure of Reuben in Genesis 49:4, compared with the ample blessings pronounced on Joseph, (Genesis 49:22-26,)

Sermons on 1 Chronicles 5:1

	Sermon	Description
	(Genesis) Genesis 34 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the focus is on Jacob and his family, particularly the children of Leah. The speaker highlights the fact that Jacob's family is always full of excitement and events
	(Genesis) Genesis 48:4-6 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the promises made by God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God promised to make them fruitful and multiply them, and to give them the land as an
	Christ in Genesis: Jacob's Pillars by Stephen Kaung	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life of Jacob and the four pillars that make up the testimony of Jesus entrusted to the church. The first pillar is awakening, where indi
	12 Real Christian Morals by George Verwer	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of sexual immorality and its consequences. He shares a personal experience of dealing with similar situations and emphasizes the imp
	(Revelation) No Trumpets Sounding by Willie Mullan	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of the Lord over all creation. He describes how the Lord has control over the land and sea, and how no angel can com
	On Eagles' Wings Pt 495 by Don Courville	In this sermon, the speaker tells the story of a family with four wicked sons and one tender-hearted youngest son. The father had trained the sons to be rascals, but the youngest s
	(Through the Bible) Genesis 47-50 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker references the story of Abraham in Genesis 15, where God reveals to him that his descendants will go down to Egypt for 400 years before being brought ou