1 Chronicles 2:23

KJV

And he took Geshur, and Aram, with the towns of Jair, from them, with Kenath, and the towns thereof, [even] threescore cities. All these [belonged to] the sons of Machir the father of Gilead.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he took {H3947} Geshur {H1650}, and Aram {H758}, with the towns {H2333} of Jair {H2971}, from them, with Kenath {H7079}, and the towns {H1323} thereof, even threescore {H8346} cities {H5892}. All these belonged to the sons {H1121} of Machir {H4353} the father {H1} of Gilead {H1568}.

Complete Jewish Bible

(But G'shur and Aram took Havot-Ya'ir away from them, along with K'nat and its villages - sixty cities.) All these were descendants of Machir the father of Gil'ad.

Berean Standard Bible

But Geshur and Aram captured Havvoth-jair, along with Kenath and its sixty surrounding villages. All these were descendants of Machir the father of Gilead.

American Standard Version

And Geshur and Aram took the towns of Jair from them, with Kenath, and the villages thereof, even threescore cities. All these were the sons of Machir the father of Gilead.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:23 is a concise yet historically rich genealogical note nestled within the extensive tribal records of Judah. It details the military actions of Jair, a descendant of Hezron, who successfully conquered and claimed "threescore cities"—sixty settlements—including the regions of Geshur, Aram, and Kenath. This acquisition, explicitly stated to have previously belonged to "the sons of Machir the father of Gilead," highlights the intricate inter-tribal land dynamics and the ongoing process of Israelite settlement and consolidation of the promised territory east of the Jordan River. The verse serves as a vital historical anchor within the Chronicler's broader aim of establishing Israel's heritage and land rights for the returning exiles.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the lengthy genealogies of [1 Chronicles 1-9](/1_chronicles/1 "1 Chronicles 1-9 - Genealogies of Israel"), specifically within the detailed lineage of Judah, which occupies a significant portion of [1 Chronicles 2](/1_chronicles/2 "1 Chronicles 2 - Genealogies of Judah"). The Chronicler meticulously traces the descendants of Judah, emphasizing the royal line of David, but also including other prominent families and their historical contributions. Verse 23 appears as an explanatory note within the lineage of Hezron, a prominent descendant of Judah, and specifically relates to the family of Segub, the father of Jair. While primarily a genealogical record, the Chronicler frequently interjects historical anecdotes and geographical details, such as this one, to provide context for tribal landholdings, significant events, and the identity of key figures. This blend of genealogy and narrative serves to ground the identity of the post-exilic community in their rich, divinely ordained past.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in this verse pertains to the early stages of Israelite settlement in the Transjordan region, east of the Jordan River, following the Exodus. The "towns of Jair" (Hebrew: _Havoth-Jair_) became a well-known designation for a cluster of settlements in Bashan and Gilead, a territory primarily allotted to the half-tribe of Manasseh. Jair, though genealogically linked to Judah through Hezron, is here associated with a conquest in Manasseh's territory, reflecting the complex and often fluid inter-tribal relationships, military alliances, and land claims during the period of the Judges and early monarchy. The mention of "Geshur" and "Aram" indicates the presence of Aramean kingdoms and peoples on Israel's northern and eastern borders. Geshur, in particular, was a small Aramean kingdom whose king, Talmai, later became the father of Maacah, one of King David's wives and mother of Absalom, as recorded in [2 Samuel 3:3](/2_samuel/3-3 "2 Samuel 3:3 - David's Wives and Children"). This verse thus highlights the ongoing struggle for control over the promised land, often involving conflict with surrounding peoples, and the strategic importance of these eastern territories.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Territorial Inheritance and Fulfillment of Promise**. The acquisition of these sixty cities by Jair demonstrates the tangible reality of God's promise to give the land to Israel, often through military conquest and diligent effort, as seen in [Deuteronomy 3:14](/deuteronomy/3-14 "Deuteronomy 3:14 - Moses' Allocation of Land"). Secondly, it exemplifies **Inter-Tribal Dynamics and Identity**. While Jair is from Judah's line, his conquests are in territory associated with Manasseh, specifically "the sons of Machir the father of Gilead" ([Numbers 26:29](/numbers/26-29 "Numbers 26:29 - Machir, Son of Manasseh")). This highlights the fluidity and interconnectedness of tribal claims and historical events, where military achievements could transcend strict genealogical boundaries, contributing to the broader Israelite identity. Lastly, the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping, even of seemingly minor historical details within genealogies, emphasizes the **Importance of Historical Record and Heritage** for the post-exilic community. It served to affirm their lineage, land rights, and the continuity of God's covenant faithfulness through generations, providing a foundation for their national and spiritual rebuilding.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Geshur (Hebrew, _Geshur'_):** A small Aramean kingdom located east of the Sea of Galilee, in the region of Bashan. Its inclusion here signifies the expansion of Israelite control into areas previously inhabited or influenced by Aramean peoples. Geshur maintained a distinct identity and later had significant interactions with the Davidic monarchy, as detailed in [2 Samuel 3:3](/2_samuel/3-3 "2 Samuel 3:3 - David's Wives and Children") and [2 Samuel 13:37](/2_samuel/13-37 "2 Samuel 13:37 - Absalom Flees to Geshur").
* **Aram (Hebrew, _Aram'_):** A broader geographical and ethnic term referring to the Aramean peoples and their various kingdoms, primarily located north and east of Israel. The mention of Aram alongside Geshur suggests a wider sphere of influence or conquest by Jair, pushing back against foreign presence in the promised territories. This reflects the ongoing geopolitical struggles of ancient Israel.
* **Jair (Hebrew, _Ya'ir'_):** Meaning "he enlightens" or "he gives light." This individual is a descendant of Judah through Hezron and Segub. He is famously associated with the "towns of Jair" (_Havoth-Jair_), a significant cluster of sixty cities in the Transjordan. His unique position, a Judahite conquering territory associated with Manasseh, underscores the complex and sometimes overlapping nature of tribal land claims and military achievements in early Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he took Geshur, and Aram, with the towns of Jair, from them, with Kenath, and the towns thereof, [even] threescore cities."**: This clause details the military achievement of Jair. The phrase "he took" (Hebrew: וַיִּקַּח, _vayyiqqach_) implies conquest or seizure. The specific locations—Geshur, Aram, and Kenath—identify the geographical scope of Jair's campaign. Kenath was another city in Bashan, east of the Jordan. The "towns of Jair" (_Havoth-Jair_) became the enduring name for these settlements, emphasizing Jair's role in their acquisition and consolidation. The precise number "threescore cities" (sixty cities) highlights the significant scale of this territorial expansion, indicating a substantial and successful military endeavor.
* **"All these [belonged to] the sons of Machir the father of Gilead."**: This concluding clause clarifies the previous ownership of the conquered territories. Machir was the firstborn son of Manasseh ([Genesis 50:23](/genesis/50-23 "Genesis 50:23 - Machir's Birth")), and his descendants, "the sons of Machir," were prominent in the Transjordan region of Gilead ([Numbers 32:39-40](/numbers/32-39 "Numbers 32:39-40 - Machirites Settle in Gilead")). This statement confirms that Jair's conquest, despite his Judahite lineage, was within territory historically associated with the tribe of Manasseh, specifically the Machirite clan. This might indicate a reassertion of Israelite control over areas that had come under foreign influence or a clarification of specific family holdings within broader tribal lands.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse. Primarily, it functions as a **Historical Narrative** embedded within a **Genealogy**. This interweaving of historical events into a lineage serves to transform what could be a dry list of names into a vibrant record of national identity and divine action. The specific mention of "threescore cities" utilizes **Enumeration**, a precise numerical detail that lends credibility and emphasizes the scale of Jair's achievement. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates **Geographical Specificity** by naming Geshur, Aram, and Kenath, grounding the narrative in real-world locations and contributing to the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping. The inclusion of the previous owners, "the sons of Machir," highlights the **Inter-Tribal Connection** and the complex land distribution patterns within ancient Israel, serving as a form of historical annotation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 2:23, though seemingly a mere historical footnote, contributes significantly to the Chronicler's theological agenda. It illustrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises regarding the land of Israel, even through the complex and sometimes violent process of conquest and settlement. The acquisition of these sixty cities by Jair, a Judahite, within the territory of Manasseh, underscores the unity of Israel as God's chosen people, transcending strict tribal boundaries in the pursuit of their shared inheritance. It also subtly emphasizes the importance of human agency and military effort in cooperation with divine providence to secure the promised blessings. The Chronicler's inclusion of such details served to remind the post-exilic community of their rich heritage, their legitimate claim to the land, and the enduring nature of God's plan for His people.

* [Numbers 32:41](/numbers/32-41 "Numbers 32:41 - Jair's Conquest of Havoth-Jair")
* [Deuteronomy 3:14](/deuteronomy/3-14 "Deuteronomy 3:14 - Moses' Account of Havoth-Jair")
* [Joshua 13:30](/joshua/13-30 "Joshua 13:30 - Inheritance of the Half-Tribe of Manasseh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This brief genealogical entry, far from being irrelevant, serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous care for His people and the unfolding of His sovereign plan through generations. Just as the Chronicler meticulously recorded the lineage and land acquisitions of Israel to affirm their identity and heritage, so too are we called to understand and appreciate our spiritual lineage as children of God, adopted into His family through Christ. The diligence and effort required to secure and maintain the promised land, even through conquest, reflect the call for believers to be diligent stewards of the spiritual inheritance we have received—our faith, our gifts, and our callings. It teaches us that even seemingly small or obscure details in God's grand narrative contribute to His overarching purpose, demonstrating His faithfulness in every era. We are part of a larger story, one that spans millennia, rooted in divine promises and culminating in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the historical context of land acquisition in ancient Israel inform our understanding of God's faithfulness to His promises?**
* **In what ways can we, as modern believers, identify with the Israelites' need to understand and affirm their heritage, both physical and spiritual?**
* **What "territories" or responsibilities has God entrusted to us today, and how can we be diligent stewards of them, just as Jair was in securing his cities?**

### FAQ
**Who was Jair, and why is his conquest mentioned in the lineage of Judah, not Manasseh?**

Answer: Jair was a descendant of Judah through Hezron and Segub, as indicated in [1 Chronicles 2:22](/1_chronicles/2-22 "1 Chronicles 2:22 - Segub and Jair"). However, his famous conquest of "threescore cities" (sixty cities) occurred in the Transjordan region, specifically in Gilead and Bashan, which were territories primarily allocated to the half-tribe of Manasseh ([Numbers 32:39-41](/numbers/32-39 "Numbers 32:39-41 - Jair's Conquest in Manasseh's Territory")). The Chronicler's inclusion of this detail within Judah's genealogy highlights the complex inter-tribal relationships and land distribution patterns in early Israel. It suggests that while tribal lines were important, military achievements and territorial claims could sometimes cross these boundaries, or perhaps that a Judahite leader was instrumental in securing or re-securing land for the broader Israelite confederation, including the Machirites of Manasseh. This demonstrates the fluid nature of tribal identity and cooperation during the period of settlement.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 2:23 details a historical conquest of physical land, it points to a deeper, spiritual reality fulfilled in Christ. The acquisition of "threescore cities" by Jair, a Judahite, within the inheritance of Manasseh, foreshadows the ultimate spiritual inheritance and unity found in the Messiah, who is from the tribe of Judah. Just as Jair secured a physical dwelling place, Christ secures for His people an eternal spiritual inheritance, not of earthly cities but of the Kingdom of God ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness into His Kingdom")). The promise of land to Israel finds its ultimate fulfillment not in a geographical territory but in the new heavens and new earth, where righteousness dwells, and all who are in Christ inherit eternal life ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth"); [Revelation 21:1-7](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-7 - New Jerusalem")). Furthermore, the inter-tribal cooperation implied in Jair's actions, where a Judahite secured land for Manasseh's descendants, prefigures the spiritual unity of all believers—Jew and Gentile—who are brought together into one body through Christ, transcending former divisions ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). He is the true "Heir of all things" ([Hebrews 1:2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:2 - Christ, Heir of All Things")) who grants His followers a spiritual citizenship and an imperishable inheritance in the heavenly realms ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven"); [1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - A Living Hope, an Imperishable Inheritance")).

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

2 Samuel 13:38

So Absalom fled, and went to Geshur, and was there three years.

Numbers 32:41

And Jair the son of Manasseh went and took the small towns thereof, and called them Havothjair.

Numbers 32:42

And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.

Joshua 13:13

Nevertheless the children of Israel expelled not the Geshurites, nor the Maachathites: but the Geshurites and the Maachathites dwell among the Israelites until this day.

Joshua 13:30

And their coast was from Mahanaim, all Bashan, all the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, and all the towns of Jair, which [are] in Bashan, threescore cities:

Deuteronomy 3:14

Jair the son of Manasseh took all the country of Argob unto the coasts of Geshuri and Maachathi; and called them after his own name, Bashanhavothjair, unto this day.