(The Lord speaking is red text)
And Zebadiah, and Meshullam, and Hezeki, and Heber,
Z'vadyah, Meshulam, Hizki, Hever,
Zebadiah, Meshullam, Hizki, Heber,
and Zebadiah, and Meshullam, and Hizki, and Heber,
And Zebadiah{H2069}, and Meshullam{H4918}, and Hezeki{H2395}, and Heber{H2268},
1 Chronicles 8:17 is a verse from a section of the Hebrew Bible that is part genealogy, part historical record. This particular verse is found within a lengthy passage that lists the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The verse itself mentions four individuals—Zebadiah, Meshullam, Hezeki, and Heber—who are part of the genealogy of King Saul, the first king of Israel, who was also from the tribe of Benjamin.
The historical context of this verse is set after the Israelites' settlement in the land of Canaan, following the conquest under Joshua. The Chronicler, traditionally believed to be Ezra, compiled these genealogies to establish the ancestral claims and connections of the post-exilic community in Judah, particularly for those returning from the Babylonian exile. These records were crucial for reestablishing the religious and social structures of the Jewish people after their return to their homeland.
The themes present in this verse include the importance of lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite society. Genealogies were not just lists of names; they were a means of preserving history, establishing identity, and asserting rights—whether for land, priestly roles, or royal succession. In the case of 1 Chronicles 8:17, the mention of these individuals contributes to the broader narrative of the tribe of Benjamin and its royal lineage, which would eventually lead to King Saul. This verse underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the Israelites and their deep reverence for their ancestral past, which was integral to their national and religious identity.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)