1 Chronicles 12:7

KJV

And Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joelah {H3132}, and Zebadiah {H2069}, the sons {H1121} of Jeroham {H3395} of Gedor {H1446}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and Yo'elah and Z'vadyah the sons of Yerocham from G'dor.

Berean Standard Bible

and Joelah and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham from Gedor.

American Standard Version

and Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 12:7 is a concise yet profoundly significant entry within a meticulously compiled list of valiant warriors and loyal individuals who rallied to David's cause during his period of exile and ascent to the throne. This verse specifically names Joelah and Zebadiah, identified as the sons of Jeroham, originating from the town of Gedor. Their inclusion highlights their participation among the Benjamite contingent who chose to support God's anointed king despite prevailing tribal allegiances. Their mention underscores the providential gathering of diverse individuals essential for the establishment of David's kingdom, emphasizing that every participant, no matter how briefly noted, played a vital role in God's unfolding plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 12 serves as a pivotal chapter, meticulously cataloging the "mighty men" and skilled warriors who aligned themselves with David. This assembly occurred first at Ziklag, while David was still a fugitive from King Saul, and subsequently at Hebron, where he was formally anointed king over all Israel. The chronicler's purpose in presenting this detailed roster is twofold: to legitimate David's kingship by demonstrating the widespread, tribal-spanning support he garnered, and more profoundly, to emphasize the divine orchestration behind his ascent rather than attributing it solely to human ambition or military prowess. Verses 1-7 specifically highlight the Benjamites, a tribe from which King Saul originated, making their allegiance to David particularly noteworthy and indicative of a significant shift in loyalty. These men are described as "mighty men, helpers of the war, armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow" [1 Chronicles 12:2](/1_chronicles/12-2 "1 Chronicles 12:2 - Benjamite Warriors"). This comprehensive listing underscores the breadth of David's support base and the undeniable hand of God in its formation, setting the stage for his unified reign.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop of 1 Chronicles 12 is a period of intense political transition and tribal tension within ancient Israel. King Saul, Israel's inaugural monarch, had been rejected by God due to his disobedience, and David had been secretly anointed as his successor by Samuel [1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David Anointed"). Consequently, David spent years as a fugitive, gathering a diverse band of followers who would become the nucleus of his future kingdom. The Benjamites, as Saul's own tribe, would have faced immense social and political pressure to maintain their loyalty to the reigning king. Their decision to join David, often referred to as "brethren of Benjamin" [1 Chronicles 12:29](/1_chronicles/12-29 "1 Chronicles 12:29 - Benjamites Join David"), signifies a profound recognition of God's favor upon David, or perhaps a pragmatic assessment of the shifting power dynamics. Gedor, the town mentioned, was likely situated within the tribal territory of Judah or Benjamin, indicating the regional origins of these supporters within the heartland of Israel. The act of openly joining a fugitive leader was a significant commitment, fraught with personal risk and a potential break from established loyalties, thus signifying deep conviction in David's divinely appointed destiny.

* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of Joelah and Zebadiah in this meticulous record contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles 12 and the broader book of Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully emphasizes **Divine Providence in Leadership**, illustrating how God meticulously gathered the necessary individuals to establish and legitimize David's reign. Each person, including these two sons of Jeroham, was an integral part of a divinely orchestrated plan that culminated in David becoming king over all Israel [2 Samuel 5:4](/2_samuel/5-4 "2 Samuel 5:4 - David's Reign"). Secondly, the verse highlights **Loyalty and Commitment**, showcasing individuals who demonstrated profound allegiance to David during a time of great uncertainty, when he was still a fugitive. Their choice to align with David, despite the inherent risks, serves as a powerful testament to their faith in his God-given destiny and their willingness to serve. Lastly, it subtly reinforces **The Value of Every Individual** in God's grand narrative. Even those mentioned briefly, without specific deeds recorded, are deemed important enough to be included in the sacred historical record, underscoring that no contribution, however seemingly minor, is insignificant in the unfolding of God's purposes for His people. This principle resonates throughout the biblical narrative, from the detailed genealogies in [Genesis 5](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - Genealogy from Adam to Noah") to the comprehensive lists of those who returned from exile in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - Those Who Returned from Exile").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên_):** This common Hebrew term (H1121) denotes a male offspring but carries a broader semantic range, often implying a "builder of the family name." In this context, it emphasizes the lineage and familial identity of Joelah and Zebadiah, rooting them within the established social structure of their time. Their identity as "sons" connects them to a specific household (Jeroham) and, by extension, to their tribal and regional origins, underscoring the communal and familial nature of their allegiance to David.
* **Zebadiah (Hebrew, _Zᵉbadyâh_):** This is a theophoric name (H2069), meaning "Yahweh has bestowed" or "Yahweh has given." The inclusion of the divine name "Yahweh" (Yah) within the personal name subtly reinforces the overarching theme of divine provision and blessing. In the context of 1 Chronicles 12, it suggests that even the existence of these individuals and their crucial support for David were gifts from God, part of His sovereign plan to establish the Davidic kingdom. The name itself becomes a quiet theological statement about God's active involvement in human affairs.
* **Gedor (Hebrew, _Gᵉdôr_):** This place name (H1446) likely derives from a root meaning "inclosure," "wall," or "fortification." While its exact location is debated among scholars (several places bore this name), it generally refers to a fortified settlement in the tribal territory of Judah or Benjamin. Its mention grounds Joelah and Zebadiah in a specific geographical and presumably secure location, indicating their established origins. The name might subtly allude to the strength or defensive nature of their community, perhaps reflecting the character of the men who came from it, or simply serving as a precise identifier in the chronicler's meticulous record.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Joelah, and Zebadiah":** These are the two specific individuals named by the chronicler. Their inclusion in this precise list, alongside other "mighty men" and loyal supporters, signifies their recognized importance within the Benjamite contingent that joined David. While no specific deeds are attributed to them here, their mere mention in a historical record focused on David's supporters elevates them beyond anonymity, indicating they were known figures within their community and among David's early followers. This particularization highlights the chronicler's commitment to detail and the value placed on individual contributions.
* **"the sons of Jeroham":** This phrase identifies their lineage, providing their father's name. In ancient Israelite society, one's identity was deeply intertwined with one's family and ancestral line. Naming the father, Jeroham, not only provides a clear genealogical marker but also places Joelah and Zebadiah within a specific family unit from Gedor, suggesting they were part of an established household or clan that chose to align with David. This detail adds to the meticulous nature of the chronicler's record-keeping, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of David's support, which extended to specific families.
* **"of Gedor":** This final phrase specifies their place of origin. As noted, Gedor was likely a fortified town in the territory of Judah or Benjamin. Identifying their hometown provides crucial geographical context, indicating that David's support was not limited to a select few but drew from various regions and communities within Israel. It grounds these individuals in a specific place, making their commitment to David a tangible act rooted in their local identity and demonstrating the widespread nature of the allegiance he garnered.

#### Literary Devices
The chronicler's presentation in 1 Chronicles 12:7, as part of a larger list, employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning beyond mere historical record. Primarily, it utilizes **List/Genealogy** as a structural and rhetorical tool. This extensive listing of names serves not merely as a dry record but as a powerful testament to the breadth and depth of support David received, lending legitimacy and divine sanction to his kingship. The very act of naming individuals, even those without further narrative, emphasizes their significance and inclusion in God's historical unfolding. Secondly, there is **Emphasis by Inclusion**. By including Joelah and Zebadiah, even without detailing their specific exploits, the text implicitly asserts that every individual, regardless of their perceived prominence or the grandeur of their deeds, played a vital role in the grand narrative of God's work through David. Their presence in the list underscores the collective effort and divine orchestration rather than solely focusing on heroic feats. Finally, the subtle use of **Theophoric Naming**, particularly with "Zebadiah" ("Yahweh has bestowed"), injects a profound theological layer into the historical record. The names themselves become silent witnesses to God's active hand in gathering these men, transforming what might seem like a dry list into a quiet affirmation of divine providence and God's sovereign control over even the seemingly minor details of history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 12:7, though brief, powerfully connects to the overarching biblical theme of God's meticulous providence and the significance of every individual within His divine plan. Just as God sovereignly raised up David, He also sovereignly gathered the specific people necessary to establish his kingdom. The inclusion of Joelah and Zebadiah, even without detailed exploits, underscores that God uses all kinds of people, in various capacities, to achieve His grand purposes. Their loyalty and commitment to David, the anointed king, serve as a model for faithfulness to God's chosen leaders and, ultimately, to God Himself. This detailed record assures readers that God's plans are not left to chance but are carefully orchestrated, involving countless individuals whose contributions, whether prominent or seemingly obscure, are valued and recorded in His divine ledger, demonstrating His comprehensive oversight and the interconnectedness of His people.

* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4 "Many Members, One Body")
* [Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15 "Growing into Christ")
* [1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "You Are the Body of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 12:7 invites us to consider our own place within God's unfolding purposes. Just as Joelah and Zebadiah were integral to David's success, so too are we, as believers, called to contribute to God's kingdom, regardless of whether our contributions are widely recognized or seemingly minor. The verse encourages a posture of humble faithfulness, reminding us that God sees and values every act of loyalty and service. It challenges us to examine our allegiances: are we aligning ourselves with God's anointed King, Jesus Christ, with the same conviction and commitment that these men showed David? Our faithfulness in seemingly small tasks or obscure roles is not insignificant in God's eyes, for He often uses the "unseen" to accomplish His greatest works. This passage fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, knowing that we are part of a larger, divinely orchestrated plan, and our individual contributions, however modest, are essential to the building of His eternal kingdom. It calls us to embrace our unique roles with diligence and humility, trusting that our efforts, when offered to God, are always significant.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of seemingly minor figures like Joelah and Zebadiah challenge our understanding of "significance" in God's kingdom?**
* **What does their loyalty to David, despite his fugitive status, teach us about commitment and faith in God's chosen leaders today?**
* **In what "unseen" ways might God be using your unique gifts and presence to advance His purposes?**
* **How can we cultivate a heart of faithful service, knowing that every contribution, no matter how small, is valued by God?**

### FAQ
**Who were Joelah and Zebadiah, and why are they mentioned in the Bible?**

Answer: Joelah and Zebadiah were two individuals identified as the sons of Jeroham, from the town of Gedor. They are mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:7 as part of a detailed list of valiant warriors and loyal men who joined David during his time of exile and when he was consolidating his power. While the Bible does not record any specific deeds for them, their inclusion in this roster is highly significant. It demonstrates that they were part of the Benjamite contingent who chose to support David, even though Saul, the reigning king, was also a Benjamite. Their mention underscores the chronicler's meticulous record-keeping, highlighting the breadth of support David received and emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their prominence, played a vital role in God's providential plan to establish David's kingdom. Their names serve as a testament to the diverse individuals God used to achieve His purposes, echoing the broader theme of God's comprehensive orchestration found throughout [1 Chronicles 12](/1_chronicles/12 "1 Chronicles 12 - David's Mighty Men").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The gathering of Joelah and Zebadiah, alongside countless others, to David's side in 1 Chronicles 12:7 foreshadows the ultimate gathering of God's people around the true and eternal King, Jesus Christ. Just as David was God's anointed, chosen to establish a kingdom, so Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of David, whose kingdom is not of this world but is eternal and spiritual [John 18:36](/john/18-36 "My Kingdom Is Not of This World"). The diverse origins of David's supporters, from various tribes and towns, prefigure the universal call of the gospel, drawing people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" to Christ [Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Redeemed from Every Tribe"). The loyalty and commitment shown to David, often at great personal risk, find their ultimate fulfillment in the unwavering allegiance required of those who follow Jesus, who calls His disciples to take up their cross and follow Him [Matthew 16:24](/matthew/16-24 "Take Up Your Cross"). Every believer, like Joelah and Zebadiah, is an essential part of Christ's body, the Church, contributing to the building of His spiritual kingdom, where no member is insignificant [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "One Body, Many Members"). Thus, this ancient record of loyal followers points forward to the glorious assembly of those who have been called by God to serve and worship the Lamb of God, who reigns forevermore [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "A Great Multitude Worshipping God").

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

Joshua 15:58

Halhul, Bethzur, and Gedor,

1 Chronicles 4:39

And they went to the entrance of Gedor, [even] unto the east side of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks.

1 Chronicles 4:18

And his wife Jehudijah bare Jered the father of Gedor, and Heber the father of Socho, and Jekuthiel the father of Zanoah. And these [are] the sons of Bithiah the daughter of Pharaoh, which Mered took.