1 Chronicles 1:29

KJV

These [are] their generations: The firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth; then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,

KJV (with Strong's)

These are their generations {H8435}: The firstborn {H1060} of Ishmael {H3458}, Nebaioth {H5032}; then Kedar {H6938}, and Adbeel {H110}, and Mibsam {H4017},

Complete Jewish Bible

Here are their descendants: Yishma'el's firstborn N'vayot; then Kedar, Adbe'el, Mivsam,

Berean Standard Bible

These are their genealogies:

American Standard Version

These are their generations: the first-born of Ishmael, Nebaioth; then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 1:29 presents a concise but significant segment of the extensive genealogies that open the book of Chronicles, specifically detailing the immediate descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's firstborn son through Hagar. This verse, alongside its surrounding context, serves to underscore God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even to those outside the direct covenant line of Isaac, while meticulously preserving the historical record essential for the identity and lineage of God's people, ultimately pointing to the broader scope of divine sovereignty over all nations and their origins.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles begins with an unparalleled genealogical record, tracing humanity from Adam through Noah, Abraham, and then meticulously through the twelve tribes of Israel, culminating in the lineage of King David. This comprehensive list, spanning the first nine chapters, establishes the historical continuity of God's redemptive plan and legitimizes the Davidic monarchy and the Levitical priesthood for the post-exilic community. Verses 28-34 specifically detail the descendants of Abraham, first through Isaac (vv. 28, 34) and then, notably, through Ishmael and Keturah (vv. 29-33). The inclusion of Ishmael's lineage in [1 Chronicles 1:29-31](/1-chronicles/1-29 "1 Chronicles 1:29-31 - Ishmael's Descendants") immediately after the mention of Isaac (v. 28) highlights the chronicler's commitment to a complete historical account, acknowledging the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael's numerous progeny, even as the narrative's primary focus shifts to the covenant line of Isaac.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Genealogies were profoundly important in the ancient Near East, serving as vital historical documents that established identity, inheritance rights, tribal boundaries, and political legitimacy. For the returning exiles to Judah, the meticulous record-keeping in Chronicles provided a crucial link to their past, affirming their heritage as God's chosen people and validating their claims to land and covenant blessings. The descendants of Ishmael, particularly Nebaioth and Kedar mentioned in this verse, were well-known nomadic Arab tribes who inhabited regions south and east of ancient Israel. These tribes were often involved in trade and sometimes conflict with Israel, and their inclusion in Israel's sacred records reflects a recognition of their shared Abrahamic ancestry and the historical reality of their presence and influence in the broader geopolitical landscape. This also speaks to the chronicler's comprehensive approach to history, acknowledging all branches of Abraham's family.
* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of Ishmael's lineage, starting with [1 Chronicles 1:29](/1-chronicles/1-29 "1 Chronicles 1:29 - Ishmael's Generations"), contributes to several key themes in Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores the **Divine Faithfulness** of God, demonstrating His commitment to the promises made to Abraham regarding *all* his offspring, not just the covenant line of Isaac. God had promised Abraham that Ishmael would become a great nation ([Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael") and [Genesis 21:13](/genesis/21-13 "Genesis 21:13 - God's Blessing on Ishmael")), and this genealogy confirms that fulfillment. Secondly, it emphasizes **Historical Continuity and Identity**, providing a foundational record for the post-exilic community to understand their origins and place within God's unfolding plan. The meticulous cataloging of these lineages, including those outside the direct line of promise, reinforces the idea that God's sovereignty extends over all peoples and their histories. Lastly, it subtly introduces the theme of **God's Universal Scope**, hinting that while the primary narrative focuses on Israel, God's providential care and plan encompass a broader humanity, even those who would not be direct heirs of the Abrahamic covenant through Isaac.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Generations (Hebrew, _tôlĕdōt'_):** This term, appearing frequently in Genesis, signifies "begettings," "descendants," or "family histories." It introduces a new section of genealogical or historical development. In [1 Chronicles 1:29](/1-chronicles/1-29 "1 Chronicles 1:29 - Ishmael's Generations"), its use emphasizes the sequential unfolding of family lines and the meticulous preservation of historical record, not merely as a list of names but as a divinely ordered progression of humanity. It underscores the chronicler's intent to trace the lineage and historical development of peoples.
* **Nebaioth (Hebrew, _Nəḇāyōṯ'_):** As the firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth is a significant figure. Historically, the Nabataeans, a powerful Arab people who established a thriving kingdom with Petra as its capital, are often linked to Nebaioth. Their prominence in ancient trade routes and their sophisticated civilization attest to the fulfillment of God's promise that Ishmael would become a great nation ([Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael")). His inclusion here highlights the historical reality and impact of Ishmael's descendants.
* **Kedar (Hebrew, _Qēḏār'_):** Kedar, another son of Ishmael, also gave rise to a powerful and well-known nomadic Arab tribe, frequently mentioned in prophetic books (e.g., [Isaiah 60:7](/isaiah/60-7 "Isaiah 60:7 - The Flocks of Kedar")). The "tents of Kedar" were synonymous with nomadic life and their wealth in flocks. Their inclusion alongside Nebaioth emphasizes the significant historical and geographical presence of Ishmael's descendants in the ancient world, reinforcing the chronicler's detailed historical account and the scope of God's providential oversight.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"These [are] their generations:"** This introductory phrase functions as a heading, typical of biblical genealogies (e.g., [Genesis 5:1](/genesis/5-1 "Genesis 5:1 - The Book of the Generations of Adam")), signaling the beginning of a new family line's detailed account. It establishes the purpose of the following list: to delineate the descendants and historical progression of the individuals previously mentioned, specifically Ishmael and his lineage.
* **"The firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth;"** This clause immediately identifies Ishmael's eldest son, Nebaioth, establishing the primary line of descent. The mention of "firstborn" is significant in ancient Near Eastern culture, denoting preeminence and often a double portion of inheritance, though in this context, it simply marks the order of birth within Ishmael's family. This name carries historical weight, linking to the later Nabataean civilization.
* **"then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,"** This continues the enumeration of Ishmael's sons, listing the next three in order. Kedar is historically prominent, as discussed above. Adbeel and Mibsam, while less frequently mentioned in other biblical texts or extra-biblical sources, are integral to completing the list of Ishmael's twelve sons, demonstrating the chronicler's commitment to a full and accurate record of all the promised descendants, fulfilling [Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael"). The meticulous listing underscores the divine attention to detail in the unfolding of human history.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 1 Chronicles 1:29, and indeed throughout the opening chapters of Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a dry list of names but a sophisticated literary and theological tool. It functions as a **Historical Record**, establishing the continuity of humanity from creation and linking the post-exilic community directly to their patriarchal roots. It serves as a **Legitimizing Device**, validating the claims of the Davidic monarchy and the Levitical priesthood by tracing their unbroken lineage. Furthermore, it is a form of **Enumeration**, systematically listing individuals to demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises regarding progeny and nationhood. The repetitive structure of "son of" or "generations of" creates a rhythmic, almost litany-like effect, emphasizing the unbroken chain of divine providence and human history. The inclusion of Ishmael's line, though not the primary covenant line, demonstrates the chronicler's comprehensive scope and the overarching theme of God's faithfulness to all His declared intentions.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 1:29, while a simple list of names, is profoundly theological. It serves as a testament to God's meticulous attention to detail and His unwavering faithfulness to His word, even concerning those not directly in the covenant line of Isaac. The inclusion of Ishmael's descendants affirms the historical fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that Ishmael would become a great nation ([Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael")). This demonstrates that God's plans are comprehensive and extend beyond the immediate focus of the covenant community, encompassing the broader tapestry of human history. It reminds us that while God's redemptive plan is focused through a specific lineage, His providential care and sovereign rule extend over all peoples and their origins. The chronicler's commitment to recording these "other" lines underscores a broader understanding of God's activity in the world, laying a foundation for the ultimate inclusion of all nations in His kingdom.

* [Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael")
* [Genesis 25:12-16](/genesis/25-12-16 "Genesis 25:12-16 - The Generations of Ishmael")
* [Isaiah 60:7](/isaiah/60-7 "Isaiah 60:7 - The Glory of Zion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a genealogical list might initially appear dry or irrelevant to modern life, 1 Chronicles 1:29 offers profound insights for reflection and application. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is deeply invested in the details of history and the lives of individuals and nations. Just as He meticulously recorded the lineage of Ishmael, fulfilling His specific promises, so too does He oversee every aspect of our lives and the unfolding of His grand design. This verse encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, knowing that if He fulfills promises to those outside the direct covenant line, He will surely fulfill His greater promises to those who are in Christ. It invites us to consider our own place in God's vast historical narrative, recognizing that our lives, our families, and our heritage are all part of a story far greater than ourselves, a story meticulously woven by a sovereign and faithful God. Understanding our spiritual roots and the historical unfolding of God's plan can deepen our sense of identity and purpose within His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detailing of genealogies, even those outside the direct covenant line, deepen your understanding of God's character and His faithfulness?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's attention to historical detail encourage you to trust Him with the seemingly small or insignificant details of your own life?**
* **How does the fulfillment of God's promise to Ishmael, as evidenced in this genealogy, reinforce your confidence in the ultimate fulfillment of all God's promises, particularly those concerning salvation and eternal life?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 1:29, so prominent in the Bible, especially in a book like Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial for several reasons in the biblical narrative, particularly in Chronicles. Firstly, they establish **historical continuity and identity**. For the post-exilic community, these lists linked them directly to Adam, Noah, and Abraham, affirming their heritage as God's chosen people and validating their claims to the land and covenant blessings. Secondly, they serve as **legal and social records**, defining tribal boundaries, inheritance rights, and eligibility for priestly or royal roles. Thirdly, and most importantly, they are **theological statements**. They demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen lineage through which His redemptive plan would unfold, culminating in the Messiah. The inclusion of diverse lines, like Ishmael's in [1 Chronicles 1:29](/1-chronicles/1-29 "1 Chronicles 1:29 - Ishmael's Generations"), also illustrates God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations and His meticulous attention to the fulfillment of *all* His promises, even those seemingly peripheral to the main covenant line.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 1:29 directly details the lineage of Ishmael, not the covenant line leading to Christ, it contributes to the broader Christ-centered narrative by demonstrating the meticulousness of God's historical record-keeping and His faithfulness to *all* His promises. The inclusion of Ishmael's descendants, who were destined to become a "great nation" ([Genesis 17:20](/genesis/17-20 "Genesis 17:20 - God's Promise to Ishmael")), subtly foreshadows the expansive nature of God's ultimate redemptive plan. Though the covenant promise of the "seed" who would bless all nations passed through Isaac and Jacob ([Genesis 22:18](/genesis/22-18 "Genesis 22:18 - All Nations Blessed Through Abraham's Seed")), the very act of meticulously recording *all* Abraham's progeny hints at a divine purpose that transcends the immediate boundaries of Israel. In Christ, the true "seed" of Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - Christ, Abraham's Seed")), God's blessing extends not just to the physical descendants of Abraham through Isaac, but to all who believe, regardless of their ethnic or genealogical background ([Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28-29 "Galatians 3:28-29 - One in Christ Jesus")). Thus, this seemingly peripheral genealogy ultimately points to the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive work, culminating in a kingdom where people from "every nation, and of all kindreds, and people, and tongues" will stand before the Lamb ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation")), fulfilling the Abrahamic promise in its fullest, Christ-centered sense.

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.

Cross-References

Isaiah 21:17

And the residue of the number of archers, the mighty men of the children of Kedar, shall be diminished: for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it].

Isaiah 60:7

All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.

Genesis 25:12

Now these [are] the generations of Ishmael, Abraham's son, whom Hagar the Egyptian, Sarah's handmaid, bare unto Abraham:

Genesis 25:16

These [are] the sons of Ishmael, and these [are] their names, by their towns, and by their castles; twelve princes according to their nations.

Psalms 120:4

Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.

Genesis 28:9

Then went Esau unto Ishmael, and took unto the wives which he had Mahalath the daughter of Ishmael Abraham's son, the sister of Nebajoth, to be his wife.

Song Of Solomon 1:5

I [am] black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon.