1 Chronicles 1:48

KJV

And when Samlah was dead, Shaul of Rehoboth by the river reigned in his stead.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when Samlah {H8072} was dead {H4191}, Shaul {H7586} of Rehoboth {H7344} by the river {H5104} reigned {H4427} in his stead.

Complete Jewish Bible

After Samlah died, Sha'ul from Rechovot-by-the-River took his place as king.

Berean Standard Bible

When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place.

American Standard Version

And Samlah died, and Shaul of Rehoboth by the River reigned in his stead.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 1:48 is a concise yet significant entry within the extensive genealogical records that open the book of 1 Chronicles. This verse specifically details a peaceful and orderly transfer of power within the Edomite kingdom, noting the death of King Samlah and the subsequent reign of Shaul of Rehoboth by the river. Its inclusion underscores the Chronicler's meticulous attention to historical detail, acknowledging the established political structures of neighboring nations even before the narrative shifts to the detailed history of Israel's own kingship, thereby setting a broader historical stage for God's unfolding purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles commences with a vast genealogical survey, spanning from Adam to the post-exilic community. This sweeping overview serves to establish the continuity of God's covenant people through history, emphasizing their lineage and identity. Before focusing on the tribes of Israel and the Davidic monarchy, the Chronicler includes a detailed list of Edomite kings (1 Chronicles 1:43-54), which closely parallels the account found in [Genesis 36:31-43](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau"). The inclusion of these non-Israelite kings, particularly their succession, highlights that kingship was a recognized and established form of governance in the ancient Near East, existing independently of and prior to Israel's own monarchy. Verse 48 specifically marks another step in this succession, demonstrating the Chronicler's commitment to presenting a comprehensive historical record that grounds the later narrative of Israel's kings within a broader regional context.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Edom, located southeast of Judah, was a prominent neighboring kingdom, descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, relations between Edom and Israel were often complex, oscillating between periods of conflict and uneasy coexistence. The list of Edomite kings in 1 Chronicles 1:43-54, including Samlah and Shaul, reflects a period of established monarchical rule in Edom, preceding the unified Israelite monarchy. The phrase "Rehoboth by the river" for Shaul's origin suggests a specific geographical location, likely near a significant waterway, perhaps the Euphrates or another major regional river, indicating a specific sphere of Edomite influence or a place of origin for this particular king. This detail, while seemingly minor, provides a historical anchor, distinguishing this Shaul from others and situating him within the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient world, where kingdoms rose and fell, and power transitioned.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within its broader genealogical context, contributes to several key themes. Firstly, it reinforces the **meticulous preservation of historical record and lineage**, a central concern for the Chronicler, who sought to affirm the identity and heritage of the post-exilic community by tracing their roots back through time. Secondly, it illustrates the theme of **succession and continuity of governance**, even among nations outside the direct covenant with Israel. The phrase "reigned in his stead" emphasizes an orderly, legitimate transfer of power, reflecting a common pattern of monarchical succession in the ancient Near East. Thirdly, the inclusion of these non-Israelite kings subtly points to **Divine Sovereignty** over all nations. While not explicitly stated, the Chronicler's comprehensive historical survey implicitly affirms that God's overarching plan encompasses the rise and fall of all kingdoms, not just Israel's, preparing the reader for the unique nature of Israel's kingship, which would be established by divine appointment, as seen with [Saul's anointing](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul Anointed King") and the [Davidic covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shaul (Hebrew, _sha'ul'_):** The name "Shaul" (שָׁאוּל) means "asked for" or "desired." While famously associated with the first king of Israel, this Edomite king bearing the same name is a distinct individual. The commonality of the name highlights a shared linguistic heritage in the ancient Semitic world, but the Chronicler's careful geographical identifier ("of Rehoboth by the river") ensures no confusion with the Israelite monarch. This distinction is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the genealogical and historical record.
* **Rehoboth by the river (Hebrew, _reḥovot nahar'_):** "Rehoboth" (רְחֹבוֹת) typically means "broad places" or "streets," suggesting an expansive or well-developed area. The crucial qualifier "by the river" (נַהַר) is key to its identification. While some scholars suggest a connection to Rehoboth of Isaac's well ([Genesis 26:22](/genesis/26-22 "Genesis 26:22 - Isaac's Well, Rehoboth")), the "river" likely refers to a significant waterway, possibly the Euphrates, indicating a region far from Edom's traditional heartland, perhaps pointing to a broader sphere of Edomite influence or a specific origin for this king. This detail serves to precisely locate Shaul within the ancient world's geography.
* **reigned in his stead (Hebrew, _vayyimlokh taḥtav'_):** This phrase (וַיִּמְלֹךְ תַּחְתָּיו) is a standard formula for succession in ancient Near Eastern royal annals and biblical texts. "Vayyimlokh" is the consecutive imperfect of "malakh" (to reign), and "taḥtav" means "under him" or "in his place/stead." It signifies a legitimate and orderly transfer of power from one monarch to the next, emphasizing continuity rather than usurpation or chaos. Its consistent use throughout the list of Edomite kings underscores the stability of their monarchical system.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when Samlah was dead":** This clause establishes the prerequisite for the succession. The death of the reigning monarch, Samlah of Masrekah (mentioned in 1 Chronicles 1:47), creates the vacancy for the next king. It is a straightforward statement of fact, indicating the natural end of one reign and the beginning of another.
* **"Shaul of Rehoboth by the river":** This identifies the new king by name and by his place of origin. The geographical identifier "Rehoboth by the river" is essential for distinguishing this Shaul and providing specific historical context for his reign, linking him to a particular region or lineage within the broader Edomite domain.
* **"reigned in his stead":** This final clause confirms the succession. It indicates that Shaul legitimately assumed the throne after Samlah's death, ensuring the continuity of the Edomite monarchy. This formulaic expression highlights the orderly nature of the transition, a common feature in the succession narratives of ancient kingdoms.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 1:48, and indeed in the entire opening section of the book, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list of names but a structured literary form that establishes historical continuity, validates claims to lineage and land, and provides a framework for understanding God's covenant purposes. The Chronicler employs **Repetition** through the consistent use of the succession formula "reigned in his stead," which creates a rhythmic pattern and emphasizes the orderly transfer of power within the Edomite kingdom. This repetition also serves to underscore the stability of these non-Israelite monarchies, providing a subtle **Contrast** to the often tumultuous and divinely interrupted successions within Israel's own monarchy, which the Chronicler will detail later. The inclusion of these specific details, like "Rehoboth by the river," also exemplifies **Precision** in historical record-keeping, a hallmark of the Chronicler's work, aiming for accuracy and comprehensive documentation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While 1 Chronicles 1:48 might appear to be a mere historical footnote, its inclusion within the divinely inspired narrative carries significant theological weight. It demonstrates God's overarching sovereignty not only over Israel but over all nations and their rulers. The rise and fall of kings, even those outside the covenant, occur within the framework of God's universal plan. The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping, even for Edomite kings, underscores the importance of history as the arena where God's purposes unfold. It reminds us that God is active in the seemingly mundane details of human history, orchestrating events to prepare for the grand narrative of redemption, ultimately culminating in the reign of His chosen King. This verse, therefore, subtly points to a divine order that transcends national boundaries, setting the stage for the unique story of Israel's divinely appointed kingship.

* [Genesis 36:31](/genesis/36-31 "Genesis 36:31 - Edomite Kings Before Israel's Kings")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons, Removes and Sets Up Kings")
* [Psalm 22:28](/psalm/22-28 "Psalm 22:28 - The Kingdom Belongs to the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly dry genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles, including the succession of Edomite kings, offer profound lessons for contemporary believers. They remind us that every detail in Scripture is purposeful, contributing to the grand tapestry of God's redemptive story. This verse, in particular, highlights that God's sovereign rule extends beyond His chosen people to encompass all nations and their leaders. We are called to recognize that even in the transitions of earthly power, God is at work, orchestrating history according to His divine will. This should instill in us a deep trust in His providential care, knowing that He is in control of all circumstances, even those that seem chaotic or beyond our understanding. It encourages us to look for God's hand in the broad sweep of history and in the minute details of our own lives, appreciating that His purposes are unfolding continuously.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of non-Israelite kings in God's inspired Word challenge or expand my understanding of God's sovereignty?**
* **What does the Chronicler's meticulous attention to historical detail, even for seemingly minor figures, teach me about the value of every part of Scripture?**
* **In what ways can I recognize God's hand at work in the "ordinary" or "mundane" transitions of power or life events around me today?**

### FAQ

**Why does the Chronicler include Edomite kings in a book primarily about Israel?**

Answer: The Chronicler's purpose in including the Edomite kings (1 Chronicles 1:43-54) is multifaceted. Firstly, it provides a comprehensive historical context, demonstrating that kingship was an established form of governance in the ancient Near East, even before Israel had its own king, as noted in [Genesis 36:31](/genesis/36-31 "Genesis 36:31 - Edomite Kings Before Israel's Kings"). This sets the stage for the unique nature of Israel's monarchy, which would be divinely instituted. Secondly, it underscores God's universal sovereignty, showing that His plan encompasses all nations, not just Israel. Even the genealogies and successions of non-covenant peoples are part of the larger divine narrative. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of lineage and historical record for the post-exilic community, affirming their identity by tracing their roots through all relevant historical connections, including those with their neighbors.

**Is this Shaul the same as King Saul of Israel?**

Answer: No, this Shaul is not the same as King Saul of Israel. While they share the same Hebrew name (שָׁאוּל), 1 Chronicles 1:48 clearly identifies this Shaul as an Edomite king, specifically "Shaul of Rehoboth by the river," who reigned after Samlah. King Saul of Israel was from the tribe of Benjamin and reigned much later in the biblical timeline, his story beginning in [1 Samuel 9](/1_samuel/9 "1 Samuel 9 - Saul Chosen as King"). The Chronicler's precise geographical identifier for the Edomite Shaul helps to distinguish him from the more famous Israelite king.

**What is the significance of 'Rehoboth by the river'?**

Answer: "Rehoboth by the river" (רְחֹבוֹת נַהַר) is a crucial geographical identifier that helps to specify the origin or domain of this particular King Shaul. "Rehoboth" means "broad places" or "streets," suggesting a significant or expansive settlement. The addition of "by the river" is key, as it likely refers to a major waterway, possibly the Euphrates River, or another prominent regional river. This detail suggests that this Edomite king might have hailed from a region of Edomite influence that extended further north or east than their traditional territory, or it could simply be a very specific location within their known lands. Its significance lies in its precision, helping to differentiate this Shaul from other individuals or places named Rehoboth in the biblical narrative, and providing a more concrete historical anchor for his reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 1:48 speaks of an earthly king's succession in Edom, it subtly contributes to the grand biblical narrative that ultimately points to the eternal and perfect kingship of Jesus Christ. The very concept of kingship, lineage, and orderly succession, even among non-covenant peoples, foreshadows the ultimate King who would come. Earthly kings, whether Israelite or Gentile, rule for a time and then die, as Samlah did, replaced by another. This inherent impermanence highlights the need for a King whose reign is not bound by mortality or succession. Jesus, the true King, is of an eternal lineage, tracing His ancestry not merely through Abraham or David ([Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus")), but existing before all creation ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")). His kingdom is not of this world, yet it encompasses all nations ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Is Not of This World")). Unlike the temporary reigns of Edomite kings, Jesus' dominion is everlasting, an "everlasting dominion that shall not pass away" ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Everlasting Dominion of the Son of Man")). He is the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords" ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), the one whose reign truly fulfills all the aspirations and promises of divine sovereignty over all creation, bringing ultimate justice, peace, and salvation to His people.

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

Genesis 36:37

And Samlah died, and Saul of Rehoboth [by] the river reigned in his stead.