1 Chronicles 2:14

KJV

Nethaneel the fourth, Raddai the fifth,

KJV (with Strong's)

Nethaneel {H5417} the fourth {H7243}, Raddai {H7288} the fifth {H2549},

Complete Jewish Bible

N'tan'el fourth, Radai fifth,

Berean Standard Bible

Nethanel fourth, Raddai fifth,

American Standard Version

Nethanel the fourth, Raddai the fifth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:14 is a precise genealogical entry within the extensive records of the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically detailing two of Jesse's sons: Nethaneel, the fourth, and Raddai, the fifth. This concise verse, while seemingly a mere listing, serves a vital function in meticulously documenting the lineage of King David, thereby reinforcing the historical authenticity and divine preservation of the royal line from which the Messiah would ultimately descend. It underscores the Chronicler's commitment to establishing the continuity and legitimacy of Israel's heritage for the post-exilic community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles opens with an exhaustive genealogical record spanning nine chapters, tracing humanity's lineage from Adam to the various tribes of Israel. Chapter 2 narrows its focus intensely on the descendants of Judah, the tribe destined for kingship according to the patriarchal blessings. Verses 1-8 lay the groundwork with the sons of Israel, before the narrative hones in on Judah's line, particularly the family of Jesse from Bethlehem. Within this focused section, 1 Chronicles 2:13 introduces Jesse's first three sons—Eliab, Abinadab, and Shimma—setting the stage for 1 Chronicles 2:14, which continues this precise enumeration by naming Nethaneel and Raddai. The sequence then culminates in 1 Chronicles 2:15 with Ozem and, most significantly, David, the youngest. This meticulous progression highlights the Chronicler's deliberate effort to establish the precise familial context for the rise of Israel's greatest king, emphasizing the divine providence at work in his selection and ancestry.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, genealogies were far more than mere lists of names; they were foundational documents crucial for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, land inheritance rights, eligibility for priestly service, and royal succession. For the post-exilic community, to whom the book of 1 Chronicles was primarily addressed, these records were indispensable. After the Babylonian exile, the returned remnant needed to re-establish their national and religious identity, confirm their claims to ancestral lands, and demonstrate continuity with their pre-exilic heritage. The Chronicler's emphasis on David's lineage, meticulously detailing every step, served to legitimize the restored monarchy's hope and reinforce the covenant promises associated with the Davidic dynasty. The inclusion of seemingly minor figures like Nethaneel and Raddai within this vital record underscores the comprehensive nature of this historical reconstruction, ensuring accuracy and completeness for a people seeking to reconnect with their past and rebuild their future.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous enumeration of Jesse's sons, including Nethaneel and Raddai, contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Chronicles. First, it underscores the **Divine Meticulousness** in God's historical record-keeping and His overarching plan. Every individual, no matter how seemingly insignificant to the main narrative, is known and accounted for in God's sovereign design. Second, it reinforces the **Foundation of Lineage** as the bedrock upon which the entire narrative of Israel's kingship and the future messianic hope is built, particularly highlighting the tribe of Judah, from whom the scepter would not depart [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - The Scepter of Judah"). This detailed record authenticates David's lineage as divinely chosen and preserved. Finally, the inclusion of all seven sons, not just David, subtly emphasizes the theme of **Divine Election and Sovereignty**, where God chooses whom He wills for specific roles, even from within a family unit, as seen in the selection of David over his older brothers [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart"). These genealogies are not just historical data; they are theological statements about God's faithfulness and purposeful work through human history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nethaneel (Hebrew, _Nethan'el'_):** This name, meaning "God has given" or "Gift of God," is highly significant in a genealogical context. It subtly reinforces the theological understanding that every individual within this lineage, including those not chosen for prominent roles, is a divine gift and part of God's providential plan. The very existence of these individuals, recorded with such precision, speaks to God's active involvement in the unfolding of history and the establishment of the Davidic line.
* **Raddai (Hebrew, _Radday'_):** The etymology of Raddai is less certain, with some scholars suggesting meanings related to "treading down," "dominion," or "subduing." While speculative, if these interpretations hold any weight, the name could subtly resonate with the broader theme of the tribe of Judah, which was prophesied to hold dominion and leadership [Genesis 49:8-10](/genesis/49-8 "Genesis 49:8-10 - Judah's Leadership"). Regardless of the precise meaning, its inclusion, alongside Nethaneel, emphasizes the Chronicler's commitment to a complete and accurate record of all sons born to Jesse, regardless of their subsequent historical prominence.
* **fourth, fifth:** The numerical designations "fourth" and "fifth" are crucial. They underscore the meticulous and precise nature of the Chronicler's record-keeping. This is not a casual list but a deliberate, ordered enumeration designed to establish the exact sequence and identity of each son within Jesse's family. This precision lends credibility and authority to the entire genealogical account, confirming the authenticity of David's place within this divinely ordained lineage.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Nethaneel the fourth":** This clause identifies Nethaneel as the fourth son of Jesse, following Eliab, Abinadab, and Shimma (as listed in 1 Chronicles 2:13). The specific ordinal number highlights the Chronicler's careful and systematic approach to documenting the lineage. It places Nethaneel precisely within the sequence, demonstrating a thorough and accurate accounting of Jesse's offspring, which is vital for establishing the complete family tree leading to David.
* **"Raddai the fifth":** This clause continues the precise enumeration, identifying Raddai as the fifth son of Jesse. Like Nethaneel, his inclusion with an ordinal number emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the genealogical record. While neither Nethaneel nor Raddai become central figures in the biblical narrative, their presence in this meticulous list affirms their legitimate place within the family of Jesse, a family divinely chosen to produce the king of Israel. This detail reinforces the authenticity and completeness of the Chronicler's historical account.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 2:14 primarily employs **Enumeration** and **Genealogy** as its core literary devices. The verse is part of a larger **Genealogy**, a literary form crucial in ancient Near Eastern cultures for establishing identity, legitimacy, and historical continuity. By meticulously listing names and their ordinal positions ("the fourth," "the fifth"), the Chronicler uses **Enumeration** to provide a precise and verifiable record. This numerical precision serves to underscore the factual accuracy and historical reliability of the lineage. Furthermore, there is an element of **Repetition** in the pattern of listing "Name the Xth," which creates a rhythmic, almost litany-like quality to the genealogies, reinforcing the systematic nature of the record. These devices collectively serve the Chronicler's overarching purpose: to demonstrate the unbroken, divinely preserved line of Judah, culminating in David, thereby providing assurance and identity to the post-exilic community and pointing towards the enduring covenant promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 2:14, though a seemingly minor detail, is a profound testament to God's meticulous sovereignty over history and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. The careful recording of every individual, even those not destined for public prominence, underscores the biblical truth that every life has value and a place within God's grand narrative. This verse, embedded within the Davidic genealogy, highlights that God works through ordinary families and individuals, weaving together a tapestry that ultimately reveals His divine purpose. It teaches us that God's plan is not haphazard but is meticulously unfolded, with every detail contributing to the larger story of salvation. The very act of preserving these names for generations speaks to God's remembrance and care for His people, ensuring the continuity of the lineage through which His promises would be fulfilled.

* [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - The Scepter Shall Not Depart from Judah")
* [Ruth 4:18-22](/ruth/4-18 "Ruth 4:18-22 - The Genealogy of David")
* [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The inclusion of Nethaneel and Raddai in the sacred record of 1 Chronicles 2:14 offers a powerful lesson for contemporary believers. In a world that often values only prominence, success, or public recognition, this verse reminds us that God's economy operates differently. He meticulously records and remembers every individual, even those who might seem to play "background" roles in the grand narrative of history. Our significance is not solely measured by our public impact but by our faithful presence within God's unfolding story. This verse encourages us to find dignity and purpose in our own lives, knowing that we are known and valued by a God who pays attention to every detail. It calls us to trust in God's overarching plan, even when our own contributions seem small or uncelebrated, understanding that every piece contributes to the magnificent tapestry of His redemptive work. Just as Nethaneel and Raddai were essential links in the chain leading to David, so too are we, in our own unique ways, part of God's ongoing work in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, like 1 Chronicles 2:14, impact your understanding of God's sovereignty and attention to detail in history?**
* **In what ways might your seemingly "minor" or "background" role contribute to God's grand narrative, even if your name is not widely celebrated?**
* **What comfort or challenge do you find in knowing that God remembers and records every detail, even those we might overlook or deem insignificant in our own lives?**

### FAQ
**Why are these genealogies so long and seemingly tedious?**

Answer: While they may appear tedious to a modern reader, the genealogies in 1 Chronicles, including 1 Chronicles 2:14, served several critical functions for the ancient Israelites, especially the post-exilic community. They were vital for establishing tribal identity, confirming land inheritance rights (as seen in [Numbers 26:52-56](/numbers/26-52 "Numbers 26:52-56 - Allotment of Land by Lot")), and proving eligibility for priestly service or royal succession. For the Chronicler, these lists were essential for demonstrating the continuity of God's covenant promises, particularly the Davidic covenant. By meticulously tracing the lineage from Adam through Judah to David, the Chronicler provided a historical foundation for the returned exiles, assuring them of their legitimate place in God's plan and reinforcing the hope of a restored kingdom. They are not merely historical records but theological statements about God's faithfulness to His people and His promises.

**What is the significance of Nethaneel and Raddai not being prominent figures like David?**

Answer: The fact that Nethaneel and Raddai are listed precisely but do not go on to become prominent figures like their brother David holds significant meaning. It underscores that God's plan involves a multitude of individuals, not just the celebrated few. While David was chosen for kingship, his brothers were still integral parts of the divinely ordained lineage. Their inclusion highlights God's meticulous attention to every link in the chain, demonstrating that every life, regardless of its public impact, is known and valued by Him. It reminds us that God uses both the prominent and the uncelebrated to accomplish His purposes, and that faithfulness in any role, even a "background" one, is honored in His sight. This perspective offers comfort and dignity to those who may not be in the spotlight, affirming that their existence and place in God's story are equally important.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly simple enumeration of Nethaneel and Raddai in 1 Chronicles 2:14, as part of Jesse's lineage, finds its ultimate and profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. This meticulous record, along with the broader genealogies in 1 Chronicles, serves as a crucial thread in the grand tapestry of salvation history, demonstrating the unbroken and divinely preserved line that would ultimately lead to the Messiah. The Chronicler's careful documentation of David's ancestry, including these less prominent brothers, provides the historical and legal framework for the New Testament's claims about Jesus' Davidic descent. Both [Matthew's Gospel](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke's Gospel](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") trace Jesus' lineage back through David, affirming that He is indeed the promised Son of David, the rightful heir to the throne of Israel. Thus, 1 Chronicles 2:14, by precisely placing Nethaneel and Raddai as part of Jesse's family, contributes to the irrefutable evidence that God was meticulously orchestrating every detail of history, ensuring the purity and authenticity of the lineage through which His eternal King would be born. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), is the culmination of all these genealogies, the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant promises made to David, and the one in whom all God's purposes for humanity are realized [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's Promises are Yes in Christ").

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.