1 Chronicles 1:26

KJV

Serug, Nahor, Terah,

KJV (with Strong's)

Serug {H8286}, Nahor {H5152}, Terah {H8646},

Complete Jewish Bible

S'rug, Nachor, Terach,

Berean Standard Bible

Serug, Nahor, Terah,

American Standard Version

Serug, Nahor, Terah,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The verse 1 Chronicles 1:26, "Serug, Nahor, Terah," presents three pivotal names within the extensive genealogies of 1 Chronicles, specifically tracing the lineage from Shem, son of Noah, down to Abraham. This concise listing serves as a crucial link in the chronicler's meticulously preserved historical record, bridging the post-diluvian world with the patriarchal era and underscoring God's faithful preservation of the covenant line that would ultimately lead to the nation of Israel and, eventually, the Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 1:26 is situated within the expansive genealogical records that open the book of 1 Chronicles, spanning from [Adam](/1_chronicles/1-1 "1 Chronicles 1:1 - Adam to Noah") in chapter 1, verse 1, through the various tribes of Israel. This particular verse falls within the section detailing the descendants of Shem, one of Noah's three sons, specifically from verse 17 to verse 27. The chronicler's immediate focus in this segment is to establish the historical continuity of humanity from the patriarchs of the post-flood world to the foundational figures of Israel's history. The names Serug, Nahor, and Terah serve as direct predecessors to Abraham, whose introduction in [1 Chronicles 1:27](/1_chronicles/1-27 "1 Chronicles 1:27 - Abraham, Isaac, Israel") marks a significant turning point, shifting the narrative focus towards the covenant people. The meticulous listing underscores the chronicler's intent to demonstrate an unbroken, divinely ordained lineage.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles was likely compiled during the post-exilic period, possibly by Ezra or a scribe from his school, around the 5th or 4th century BCE. For a people returning from exile, establishing their identity, heritage, and claim to the land was paramount. Genealogies served a vital function in ancient Near Eastern societies, confirming tribal affiliations, land rights, priestly qualifications, and royal succession. By meticulously tracing the lineage from the dawn of humanity, the chronicler not only validated Israel's place in God's redemptive history but also reminded the repatriated exiles of their divine election and the enduring nature of God's promises, even after national catastrophe. The inclusion of names like Serug, Nahor, and Terah, also found in [Genesis 11](/genesis/11 "Genesis 11 - From Shem to Abram"), reinforces the historical veracity and continuity of their sacred traditions.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, embedded within the broader genealogies, contributes significantly to several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the **Continuity of God's Redemptive Plan**, demonstrating that God's purposes unfold across generations, preserving a chosen line through which His promises would be fulfilled. Secondly, it emphasizes **Divine Faithfulness**, showcasing how God meticulously oversees human history, ensuring the survival of the lineage despite the passage of time and the challenges faced by humanity. The inclusion of these specific names, leading directly to Abraham, foreshadows the **Covenant Promises** that God would establish with him, promises of land, nationhood, and universal blessing, as seen in [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abram"). Finally, the very act of recording these names underscores the **Importance of Heritage and Identity** for the post-exilic community, grounding their present reality in a rich, divinely-guided past.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Serug (Hebrew, _Sərûḡ'_):** This name, meaning "branch" or "interwoven," appears in the biblical genealogies of [Genesis 11:20-23](/genesis/11-20 "Genesis 11:20-23 - Serug's Lineage") and Luke 3:35. While its etymology might hint at growth or connection, its primary significance in this context is its role as a link in the pre-Abrahamic lineage. Serug is identified as the son of Reu and the father of Nahor, placing him four generations before Terah, Abraham's father. His inclusion here, as in Genesis, serves to maintain the unbroken chain of descent from Shem towards the patriarchs.
* **Nahor (Hebrew, _Nāḥôr'_):** Meaning "snorting" or "snorer," Nahor is a significant name appearing twice in the Genesis genealogies: first as the son of Serug and father of Terah ([Genesis 11:24-25](/genesis/11-24 "Genesis 11:24-25 - Nahor's Lineage")), and second as the name of Abraham's brother ([Genesis 11:27](/genesis/11-27 "Genesis 11:27 - Terah's Family")). In 1 Chronicles 1:26, it refers to the former, the grandfather of Abraham. The repetition of names across generations was common in ancient cultures, but here, it specifically highlights the direct familial connection within the patriarchal line, reinforcing the historical accuracy and continuity of the biblical record.
* **Terah (Hebrew, _Teraḥ'_):** This name, possibly meaning "station" or "delay," is highly significant as Terah is explicitly identified as the father of Abram (Abraham), Nahor, and Haran ([Genesis 11:27](/genesis/11-27 "Genesis 11:27 - Terah, Father of Abram")). He is the last individual named before the pivotal figure of Abraham, marking the immediate generation preceding the recipient of God's foundational covenant. His journey from Ur of the Chaldeans to Haran, as recorded in [Genesis 11:31](/genesis/11-31 "Genesis 11:31 - Terah's Journey"), sets the stage for Abraham's call and the commencement of God's redemptive history with a chosen people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Serug,"**: This name introduces the first of three individuals in this specific segment of the genealogy. Serug is presented as a direct descendant of Shem, representing a generation that lived centuries after the flood but before the call of Abraham. His inclusion serves as a vital link, demonstrating the meticulous preservation of the lineage from the general post-flood population to the specific family that God would choose.
* **"Nahor,"**: Following Serug, Nahor is named, establishing the next generation in the sequence. This Nahor is the grandfather of Abraham, distinct from Abraham's brother of the same name. His presence in this list emphasizes the unbroken chain of descent, highlighting the continuity of the family line that would ultimately produce the patriarchs of Israel.
* **"Terah,"**: The final name in this verse is Terah, who is of paramount importance as the father of Abraham. His inclusion marks the immediate precursor to the Abrahamic covenant, signifying the generation directly responsible for bringing forth the individual through whom God would initiate His special relationship with a people. This name serves as a bridge, connecting the ancient, pre-patriarchal world to the foundational era of Israel's history.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 1:26, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list of names but a structured literary form with specific theological and historical purposes. The chronicler employs a **Concise Listing** technique, presenting names without extensive narrative, which serves to emphasize the continuous flow of history and the unbroken chain of descent. This brevity, however, does not diminish their significance; rather, it highlights their role as essential links in a divinely ordained sequence. The repetition of names and the clear sequential order create a sense of **Linear Progression**, guiding the reader through time and underscoring the deliberate unfolding of God's plan. While seemingly dry, this genealogical format functions as a powerful **Historical Affirmation**, validating the ancient roots of Israel and the faithfulness of God in preserving the lineage leading to the fulfillment of His promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The seemingly simple listing of names in 1 Chronicles 1:26 carries profound theological weight, serving as a testament to God's meticulous sovereignty over human history and His unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan. These names are not random; they represent crucial links in the divinely preserved lineage that would culminate in the nation of Israel and, ultimately, the Messiah. The chronicler's emphasis on this continuity underscores the idea that God works through specific individuals and families across generations, ensuring that His promises are brought to fruition precisely as intended. This verse, therefore, highlights the theme of divine faithfulness, demonstrating how God maintains a chosen line even through periods of obscurity or apparent stagnation, all in preparation for the pivotal moments of His covenantal unfolding. It reminds us that every life, even those seemingly mundane, plays a part in God's grand narrative.

* [Genesis 5](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - Adam to Noah Genealogy")
* [Genesis 11:10-26](/genesis/11-10 "Genesis 11:10-26 - Shem to Terah Genealogy")
* [Luke 3:34-36](/luke/3-34 "Luke 3:34-36 - Jesus' Genealogy through Terah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a list of ancient names might initially appear distant or irrelevant to contemporary life, 1 Chronicles 1:26 profoundly reminds us of God's active involvement in the minutiae of human history. Each name—Serug, Nahor, Terah—represents a real person, a life lived, a family established, and a crucial link in the unbroken chain of God's redemptive plan. This meticulous preservation of lineage speaks volumes about God's faithfulness and His long-term vision. It teaches us that God's purposes are not rushed or haphazard; they unfold with deliberate precision across generations. For us today, this means recognizing that our lives, too, are part of a larger divine narrative. We are not isolated individuals but participants in God's ongoing work, called to faithfulness in our own generation. Just as these ancient figures, perhaps unaware of their future significance, played their part, so too can our seemingly small acts of obedience and faith contribute to God's grand design. It encourages us to trust in God's sovereign timing and to find purpose in our present, knowing that He is orchestrating all things for His glory and our good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the chronicler's meticulous preservation of genealogies, including names like Serug, Nahor, and Terah, challenge our modern tendency to focus only on immediate results or prominent figures?**
* **In what ways does this verse, by highlighting the continuity of God's plan across generations, encourage you to think about your own legacy of faith for those who come after you?**
* **Considering that these individuals lived centuries before the major covenants, what does their inclusion teach us about God's long-term preparation and patience in bringing about His redemptive purposes?**

### FAQ
**Why does 1 Chronicles begin with such long lists of names?**

Answer: The extensive genealogies at the beginning of 1 Chronicles serve several critical purposes for the post-exilic community for whom the book was written. Firstly, they establish the **historical continuity** of God's people, demonstrating an unbroken lineage from Adam through the patriarchs, the tribes, and the Davidic monarchy. This was crucial for a people returning from exile to re-establish their identity and claim to the land. Secondly, they validate **legitimacy** for various roles: land ownership was tied to tribal affiliation, priestly service to the line of Aaron, and kingship to the line of David. Thirdly, they underscore **God's faithfulness** in preserving His covenant people through generations, even amidst periods of unfaithfulness and exile. Names like Serug, Nahor, and Terah, linking back to the earliest narratives in [Genesis 11](/genesis/11 "Genesis 11 - From Shem to Abram"), reinforce the deep historical roots and divine oversight of Israel's story, providing hope and a foundation for rebuilding.

**Are these genealogies identical to those found in Genesis? If not, why the differences?**

Answer: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are largely consistent with those found in Genesis, particularly in the earlier sections like the one containing Serug, Nahor, and Terah (cf. [Genesis 11:10-26](/genesis/11-10 "Genesis 11:10-26 - Shem to Terah Genealogy")). However, there are occasional differences, omissions, or additions in other parts of the genealogies throughout Chronicles. These variations are generally not contradictions but reflect the chronicler's specific purpose and selective focus. Ancient genealogies were not always intended to be exhaustive "birth certificates" in the modern sense; rather, they were often thematic, highlighting specific lines (e.g., royal, priestly, or those leading to key figures) or serving a particular theological point. The chronicler's primary aim was to establish the legitimate lineage of Israel, particularly the Davidic and priestly lines, for the returning exiles, sometimes abbreviating or emphasizing certain branches to achieve this goal.

**What is the significance of Terah being named in this verse?**

Answer: Terah's inclusion in 1 Chronicles 1:26 is profoundly significant because he is explicitly identified as the father of Abram, who would later be renamed Abraham, the patriarch with whom God established His foundational covenant (cf. [Genesis 11:27](/genesis/11-27 "Genesis 11:27 - Terah, Father of Abram")). By naming Terah, the chronicler brings the genealogy to the immediate generation preceding the pivotal figure in Israel's history. This verse serves as a crucial bridge, connecting the broad sweep of human history from Adam and Noah to the specific family through whom God would begin to unfold His redemptive plan for a chosen people. Terah's lineage ensures that Abraham's call is not an isolated event but part of a long, divinely orchestrated historical progression.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 1:26 lists names centuries before the advent of Christ, its inclusion in the biblical canon, particularly within the meticulously preserved genealogies, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The chronicler's painstaking effort to trace the lineage from Adam through figures like Serug, Nahor, and Terah, culminating in Abraham and eventually David, underscores God's unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan, a plan that ultimately points to Jesus Christ. These names represent essential links in the human ancestry of the Messiah, demonstrating that Jesus' arrival was not a random event but the culmination of centuries of divine preparation and faithfulness. The promise given to Abraham, that all nations would be blessed through his offspring ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Blessing of Abraham")), finds its ultimate realization in Christ, the true "seed" of Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - Christ, the Seed of Abraham")). Furthermore, the genealogies of Jesus in the New Testament, such as those in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - Genealogy of Jesus"), explicitly include these very names, affirming Jesus' historical connection to this ancient, divinely preserved lineage. Thus, 1 Chronicles 1:26, far from being a mere historical record, serves as a foundational stone in the grand narrative of salvation history, pointing forward to the coming of the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") who would redeem humanity.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.