1 Chronicles 2:24

KJV

And after that Hezron was dead in Calebephratah, then Abiah Hezron's wife bare him Ashur the father of Tekoa.

KJV (with Strong's)

And after {H310} that Hezron {H2696} was dead {H4194} in Calebephratah {H3613}, then Abiah {H29} Hezron's {H2696} wife {H802} bare {H3205} him Ashur {H806} the father {H1} of Tekoa {H8620}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After Hetzron died in Kalev-Efratah, Aviyah Hetzron's wife bore him Ash'chur the father of T'koa.

Berean Standard Bible

After Hezron died in Caleb-ephrathah, his wife Abijah bore to him Ashhur the father of Tekoa.

American Standard Version

And after that Hezron was dead in Caleb-ephrathah, then Abijah Hezron’s wife bare him Ashhur the father of Tekoa.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:24 provides a crucial genealogical detail within the extensive records of Judah, meticulously documenting the continuation of Hezron's lineage through his wife Abiah and their son Ashur, even after Hezron's death. This verse subtly underscores the divine commitment to preserving the covenant line by linking significant individuals to specific geographical locations like Calebephratah and Tekoa, thereby emphasizing tribal identity, land inheritance, and God's sovereign preservation of His chosen people and their future.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the expansive genealogical tapestry that forms the initial nine chapters of 1 Chronicles, serving as the foundational bedrock for the historical narrative that unfolds thereafter. Specifically, it is situated within the detailed account of the descendants of Judah, the preeminent tribe from which Israel's kingship, and ultimately the Messiah, would emerge. The Chronicler's meticulous tracing of Hezron's lineage, a pivotal figure as a son of Perez and grandson of Judah (as seen in [Genesis 46:12](/genesis/46-12 "Genesis 46:12 - Hezron, Son of Perez") and [1 Chronicles 2:5](/1_chronicles/2-5 "1 Chronicles 2:5 - Sons of Judah")), reveals a profound concern for the continuity and purity of the tribal lines. This emphasis was particularly vital for the post-exilic community, for whom identity, land claims, and a sense of belonging were paramount. The immediate narrative flow within [1 Chronicles 2](/1_chronicles/2 "1 Chronicles 2 - The Descendants of Judah") focuses on the various branches and clans stemming from Judah, establishing their intricate relationships and territorial associations within the Promised Land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles was most likely compiled during the post-exilic period, a time when the returned exiles faced the daunting task of re-establishing their national and religious identity. In this context, genealogies were far more than mere lists of names; they were indispensable legal and social documents that affirmed tribal affiliation, validated land rights, confirmed priestly succession, and established social standing. The mention of "Calebephratah" carries significant cultural weight, as Ephrathah is strongly associated with [Bethlehem](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Micah's Prophecy of Bethlehem"), a town destined for immense future importance as the birthplace of King David and, centuries later, the Messiah. The phrase "after that Hezron was dead" might subtly allude to the ancient Israelite practice of levirate marriage (as outlined in [Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - The Law of Levirate Marriage")), where a brother or close relative would marry a deceased man's widow to raise offspring in his name, thereby ensuring the continuation of the family line and its inheritance. This cultural imperative underscores the profound value placed on lineage continuity in ancient Israelite society.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, though brief, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Genealogical Continuity and Preservation**, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness in maintaining the covenant line even through challenging circumstances such as death, thereby ensuring the unbroken flow of generations. Secondly, it reinforces **Identity and Inheritance**, as these meticulously recorded genealogies served to define the people of Israel, their tribal affiliations, and their rightful claims to the land God had promised them. Thirdly, the specific geographical markers of "Calebephratah" and "Tekoa" underscore **Geographical Significance**, tying the lineages directly to important locations within the tribal land of Judah, places that would play crucial roles in Israel's history and prophetic fulfillment. Finally, the meticulous record-keeping, even for seemingly minor figures like Abiah and Ashur, points to **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, revealing God's overarching plan at work through generations, orchestrating human history to fulfill His promises, particularly concerning the [Davidic covenant](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dead (Hebrew, _mâveth'_):** From H4194, meaning "death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin." In this context, it refers to the physical demise of Hezron, establishing a temporal marker and highlighting the human reality of mortality against which the divine preservation of lineage is emphasized.
* **Calebephratah (Hebrew, _Kâlêb ʼEphrâthâh'_):** From H3613, a compound geographical name derived from "Caleb" and "Ephrathah." This signifies a specific territorial or clan association, often identified with Bethlehem (as seen in [Genesis 35:19](/genesis/35-19 "Genesis 35:19 - Rachel's Burial in Ephrathah") and [Ruth 4:11](/ruth/4-11 "Ruth 4:11 - The Elders of Bethlehem")). Its mention grounds the genealogy in a historically and prophetically significant region within Judah.
* **Abiah (Hebrew, _ʼĂbîyâh'_):** From H29, meaning "father (i.e. worshipper) of Jah." This theophoric name, containing an element of the divine name Yahweh, highlights her significant role in bearing the next generation and ensuring the continuation of the family line. Her explicit mention underscores her vital contribution to the lineage, subtly pointing to God's involvement in its preservation.
* **father (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** From H1, meaning "a primitive word; father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application; chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal." When used in the phrase "father of Tekoa," it signifies Ashur as the patriarch, founder, or chief ancestor of the community or clan that settled in or originated from the town of Tekoa (H8620, Tᵉqôwaʻ). This idiom connects the individual to the collective identity and geographical location.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And after that Hezron was dead in Calebephratah,"**: This opening clause establishes the critical temporal and geographical context. Hezron's death signifies a potential point of discontinuity for his lineage, yet the narrative immediately sets the stage for its continuation. The mention of "Calebephratah" (likely Bethlehem) grounds the event in a specific, significant location within Judah, linking the family line to a territory that would become profoundly important in Israelite history and prophecy.
* **"then Abiah Hezron's wife bare him Ashur"**: This segment highlights the agency of Abiah in ensuring the continuation of Hezron's line. The phrase "bare him" (referring to Hezron) indicates that Ashur is considered Hezron's legitimate descendant, thereby preserving Hezron's name and inheritance. This could imply a posthumous birth from a conception prior to Hezron's death, or it might subtly allude to a levirate marriage, though not explicitly stated. The primary focus remains on the unbroken genealogical chain and the divine provision for its continuity.
* **"the father of Tekoa."**: This concluding clause identifies Ashur's historical significance by linking him to the founding or progenitor role of the clan associated with the town of Tekoa. This provides a tangible historical and geographical anchor for the Chronicler's audience, connecting the abstract genealogical name to a known community and territory within Judah. It signifies Ashur's role in establishing a significant branch of Hezron's descendants, a town later known for its strategic importance and its connection to prophetic figures.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Genealogical Listing**, a foundational literary device throughout 1 Chronicles, serving to meticulously trace lineage, establish tribal identity, and validate claims to land and heritage. Within this framework, it utilizes **Eponymous Ancestry**, where individuals like Ashur are identified as the "father of" a place or clan (e.g., "father of Tekoa"), signifying their role as a founder or chief ancestor rather than solely a biological progenitor. The inclusion of precise geographical markers like "Calebephratah" and "Tekoa" functions as a **Geographical Anchor**, grounding the otherwise abstract names in tangible locations, thereby connecting the genealogical history to the physical landscape of Judah. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates remarkable **Conciseness**, conveying significant information about lineage, location, and continuity within a very brief statement, a hallmark of biblical genealogical records.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly brief genealogical entry is profoundly rich with theological implications, serving as a testament to God's meticulous faithfulness in preserving the covenant line, even in the face of human mortality. The continuation of Hezron's lineage through Abiah and Ashur, despite Hezron's death, powerfully illustrates God's sovereign hand guiding history and ensuring the fulfillment of His promises across generations. The Chronicler's emphasis on these precise details reveals a deep conviction that every individual and every generation plays an integral part in God's grand redemptive narrative. This divine preservation of lineage is not merely for historical record-keeping but for the ultimate, overarching purpose of bringing forth the promised Messiah, who would emerge from this very tribe of Judah. It serves as a powerful reminder that God works through the ordinary, the seemingly obscure, and the challenging circumstances of life, orchestrating every detail to achieve His eternal purposes.

* [Genesis 46:12](/genesis/46-12 "Genesis 46:12 - Hezron's Lineage from Jacob")
* [Ruth 4:11-12](/ruth/4-11-12 "Ruth 4:11-12 - Blessing of Ruth and Boaz in Bethlehem")
* [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem Ephrathah, Birthplace of the Messiah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 2:24 might initially appear to be just another name in a long list, its inclusion in the inspired Word of God assures us that every detail in Scripture is purposeful and carries profound meaning. This verse, like countless others in the biblical genealogies, invites us to reflect deeply on the unwavering faithfulness of God throughout human history. It teaches us that God actively works through generations, through individuals both prominent and seemingly obscure, to bring about His divine plan. Our lives, too, are part of a larger, intricate tapestry woven by God, and even our seemingly small contributions or our place within a family or community lineage can have eternal significance in His grand design. It encourages us to cultivate a profound trust in God's meticulous care, knowing that He oversees every detail, ensuring the continuity of His redemptive work. We are called to recognize our unique place in this ongoing story, to honor our spiritual heritage, and to live in a way that faithfully contributes to the flourishing of God's kingdom across generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, such as 1 Chronicles 2:24, speak to God's character and His active, sovereign involvement in human history?**
* **In what ways do you personally observe God's faithfulness to His promises unfolding through generations, even in seemingly small or obscure details, in your own life or in the broader narrative of faith?**
* **How can understanding our spiritual heritage and the "lineage" of faith that precedes us encourage and equip us in our walk with God today, inspiring us to contribute to the legacy for future generations?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "Calebephratah" in this verse?**

Answer: "Calebephratah" is a compound geographical term that links the clan of Caleb with Ephrathah. Ephrathah is widely understood to be an ancient name for the region around [Bethlehem](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem Ephrathah"), a town that holds immense significance in biblical history. It was the birthplace of King David ([1 Samuel 17:12](/1_samuel/17-12 "1 Samuel 17:12 - David's Family in Bethlehem")) and, prophetically, the birthplace of the Messiah ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem, Birthplace of the Ruler")). Its mention here grounds the genealogy in a specific, highly important location within Judah, subtly foreshadowing its future role in God's redemptive plan.

**Does "after Hezron was dead" imply a levirate marriage?**

Answer: While not explicitly stated, the phrase "after Hezron was dead" followed by the birth of a son to his wife Abiah certainly raises the possibility of a levirate marriage. This ancient Israelite custom, detailed in [Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Law of Levirate Marriage"), required a brother or close male relative to marry his deceased brother's widow to raise offspring in the deceased's name, thus preserving his lineage and inheritance. Alternatively, it could simply mean that Ashur was conceived before Hezron's death but born afterward. The key emphasis, regardless of the specific circumstances, is on the continuation of Hezron's family line and name, highlighting God's providential care for the covenant lineage.

**Who was Ashur, "the father of Tekoa"?**

Answer: Ashur was the son born to Hezron's wife Abiah. The phrase "father of Tekoa" is an idiomatic expression common in biblical genealogies. It means that Ashur was the progenitor, founder, or chief ancestor of the clan or community that settled in or was associated with the town of Tekoa. Tekoa was a real town located south of Bethlehem in Judah, known for its strategic position. It is famously mentioned as the hometown of the [prophet Amos](/amos/1-1 "Amos 1:1 - Amos from Tekoa") and was also associated with a [wise woman who advised King David](/2_samuel/14-2 "2 Samuel 14:2 - The Wise Woman of Tekoa"). This connection links the genealogical record to a tangible historical and geographical reality, demonstrating the Chronicler's concern for rooting the lineage in the land of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly mundane genealogical entry of 1 Chronicles 2:24, like all such passages in the Old Testament, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. The meticulous tracing of lineages, particularly within the tribe of Judah, served a singular, overarching divine purpose: to establish the authentic human ancestry of the promised Messiah. The mention of "Calebephratah" (Bethlehem) is a subtle yet significant geographical anchor, prophetically pointing to the very town where the [Son of David](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") would be born centuries later, as foretold in [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem, Birthplace of the Ruler"). Jesus is the culmination of all these genealogies, the ultimate "seed" promised to Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Seed is Christ")) and the rightful heir to the throne of David ([Romans 1:3](/romans/1-3 "Romans 1:3 - Descendant of David")). Every name, every birth, every continuation of a family line, even after death, was part of God's sovereign plan to bring forth the Lamb of God, who would perfectly fulfill all the promises and covenants, establishing an eternal kingdom that transcends all earthly lineages and brings salvation to all who believe. The preservation of Hezron's line, even in this brief verse, contributes to the grand narrative that ultimately leads to the Incarnation of God's Son, whose [genealogy is meticulously recorded in the New Testament](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus").

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

1 Chronicles 4:5

And Ashur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

1 Chronicles 2:9

The sons also of Hezron, that were born unto him; Jerahmeel, and Ram, and Chelubai.

1 Chronicles 2:18

¶ And Caleb the son of Hezron begat [children] of Azubah [his] wife, and of Jerioth: her sons [are] these; Jesher, and Shobab, and Ardon.

1 Chronicles 2:19

And when Azubah was dead, Caleb took unto him Ephrath, which bare him Hur.

1 Samuel 30:14

We made an invasion [upon] the south of the Cherethites, and upon [the coast] which [belongeth] to Judah, and upon the south of Caleb; and we burned Ziklag with fire.

2 Samuel 14:2

And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, I pray thee, feign thyself to be a mourner, and put on now mourning apparel, and anoint not thyself with oil, but be as a woman that had a long time mourned for the dead:

Amos 1:1

¶ The words of Amos, who was among the herdmen of Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake.