1 Chronicles 2:21

And afterward Hezron went in to the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead, whom he married when he [was] threescore years old; and she bare him Segub.

And afterward {H310} Hezron {H2696} went in {H935} to the daughter {H1323} of Machir {H4353} the father {H1} of Gilead {H1568}, whom he married {H3947} when he was threescore {H8346} years {H8141} old {H1121}; and she bare {H3205} him Segub {H7687}.

Afterwards, Hetzron had sexual relations with the daughter of Machir the father of Gil'ad; he married her when he was sixty years old, and she bore him S'guv.

Later, Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead. He had married her when he was sixty years old, and she bore to him Segub.

And afterward Hezron went in to the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead, whom he tookto wifewhen he was threescore years old; and she bare him Segub.

Commentary

Context of 1 Chronicles 2:21

This verse is found within the extensive genealogies that open the book of 1 Chronicles. Chapters 1-9 are primarily dedicated to tracing the lineage of Israel, from Adam through the various tribes, particularly focusing on the tribe of Judah and the house of David. 1 Chronicles 2 specifically details the descendants of Judah. Verse 21 highlights a significant marriage within the lineage of Hezron, a prominent son of Judah. This union is notable because it connects the powerful tribe of Judah with the tribe of Manasseh, through Machir, who was a son of Manasseh and a key figure associated with the territory of Gilead east of the Jordan River.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Genealogical Continuity: The primary purpose of these lists is to establish and preserve the purity and continuity of Israelite lineage, crucial for land inheritance, tribal identity, and ultimately, the Messianic line.
  • Inter-Tribal Connections: The marriage of Hezron (Judah) to the daughter of Machir (Manasseh) demonstrates important inter-tribal relationships and alliances. Such unions could solidify political ties, share resources, and blend tribal influences, especially concerning land claims in regions like Gilead.
  • Divine Providence in Procreation: Hezron was "threescore years old" (60 years old) when he married and fathered Segub. This detail underscores God's ability to grant children and continue a family line even in advanced age, echoing similar accounts of divine blessing seen with Abraham and Sarah. It highlights that the continuation of the covenant line was often a miraculous work of God.
  • Land and Inheritance: The mention of Machir as "the father of Gilead" points to the importance of land and territorial claims. Machir's descendants, including Segub's son Jair, were significant landholders in Gilead, emphasizing the connection between lineage and inherited territory (1 Chronicles 2:22).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "went in to" is a common biblical euphemism for marital relations, indicating the consummation of the marriage. The term "threescore years old" directly translates to sixty years old, clearly stating Hezron's age at the time of this significant event.

Practical Application

While a genealogical record, this verse offers insights into the biblical worldview:

  • Value of Family History: It reminds us of the importance of knowing our roots and understanding how God has worked through generations.
  • God's Faithfulness: It testifies to God's enduring faithfulness in preserving His people and His promises, even through seemingly ordinary or unexpected events like marriages at an advanced age.
  • God's Sovereignty: The meticulous detail of these genealogies points to God's sovereign hand guiding the course of history and human lives to fulfill His purposes, ultimately leading to the lineage of Christ.
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Cross-References

  • Numbers 27:1

    ¶ Then came the daughters of Zelophehad, the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, of the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph: and these [are] the names of his daughters; Mahlah, Noah, and Hoglah, and Milcah, and Tirzah.

  • Numbers 26:29

    Of the sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites: and Machir begat Gilead: of Gilead [come] the family of the Gileadites.

  • Genesis 50:23

    And Joseph saw Ephraim's children of the third [generation]: the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were brought up upon Joseph's knees.

  • Numbers 32:39

    And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead, and took it, and dispossessed the Amorite which [was] in it.

  • Numbers 32:40

    And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein.

  • Deuteronomy 3:15

    And I gave Gilead unto Machir.
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