1 Chronicles 2:43

KJV

And the sons of Hebron; Korah, and Tappuah, and Rekem, and Shema.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Hebron {H2275}; Korah {H7141}, and Tappuah {H8599}, and Rekem {H7552}, and Shema {H8087}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Hevron: Korach, Tapuach, Rekem and Shema.

Berean Standard Bible

The sons of Hebron:

American Standard Version

And the sons of Hebron: Korah, and Tappuah, and Rekem, and Shema.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:43 is a succinct genealogical entry within the comprehensive historical and tribal records that open the book of 1 Chronicles. It precisely identifies four individuals—Korah, Tappuah, Rekem, and Shema—as "the sons of Hebron." This verse, though brief, meticulously documents a specific lineage within the tribe of Levi, serving the Chronicler's overarching purpose of establishing and preserving the tribal, family, and priestly identities of Israel for the post-exilic community, thereby affirming their continuity with God's covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the extensive genealogical sections of 1 Chronicles, which commence with Adam and systematically narrow down to the tribes of Israel. While chapters 2-4 predominantly detail the lineage of Judah, 1 Chronicles 2:43 specifically presents a Levite family. The "Hebron" referenced here is distinct from Hebron, the grandson of Judah through Caleb (as seen in [1 Chronicles 2:18](/1_chronicles/2-18 "1 Chronicles 2:18 - Caleb's Sons") and [1 Chronicles 2:42](/1_chronicles/2-42 "1 Chronicles 2:42 - More Descendants of Caleb")), but rather refers to Hebron, the son of Kohath, who was a direct son of Levi (as meticulously detailed in [1 Chronicles 6:2](/1_chronicles/6-2 "1 Chronicles 6:2 - Lineage of Kohath") and [1 Chronicles 6:18](/1_chronicles/6-18 "1 Chronicles 6:18 - Sons of Kohath")). The Chronicler's careful interweaving of these tribal records provides a comprehensive and authoritative history, emphasizing the divine continuity of God's covenant people. The deliberate inclusion of this Levite lineage within the Judahite records underscores the profound interconnectedness of all the tribes and the critical importance of all legitimate lines for the re-established community, particularly those related to the priesthood and the Davidic monarchy.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles was most likely compiled during the post-exilic period, roughly between 450-400 BC, a critical time when the returned exiles were striving to rebuild their national identity, reclaim their ancestral land, and re-establish their religious institutions. In ancient Israel, genealogies were of paramount importance for several reasons: they established tribal affiliation, validated claims to land inheritance, confirmed eligibility for priestly or Levitical service, and asserted the legitimacy of leadership. For a community seeking to re-establish itself after the devastating Babylonian exile, these detailed records provided an indispensable link to their past, ensuring continuity with God's covenant promises and the Mosaic Law. The precise listing of names, even those seemingly obscure, served to affirm the divine order and the preservation of the chosen people, providing a foundational sense of stability and purpose.

* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 2:43, as an integral part of the larger genealogical framework, contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the Chronicler's work. Firstly, it highlights the paramount importance of **Genealogical Record Keeping** in Israelite society, which was absolutely essential for maintaining tribal distinctions, property rights, and religious roles within the covenant community (a necessity also seen in [Ezra 2:59](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59 - Genealogical Records for Returning Exiles")). Secondly, it powerfully underscores God's **Divine Order and Faithfulness**, demonstrating His meticulous attention to detail in preserving the lines of His chosen people, thereby fulfilling His covenant promises across countless generations. Even in what might appear to be dry lists, God's providential hand is undeniably evident in maintaining the structure and integrity of His people. Lastly, these genealogies provided a profound sense of **Identity and Heritage** for the original audience, rooting them deeply in God's historical work and giving them a clear understanding of their place within His larger redemptive plan for Israel, particularly concerning the lineage of the priesthood and the Davidic monarchy, which are central to the Chronicler's message (e.g., the profound covenant in [1 Chronicles 17](/1_chronicles/17 "1 Chronicles 17 - God's Covenant with David")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sons (Hebrew, _bên_):** Derived from the root H1121, this term literally means "a son" and is used in its widest sense to denote literal and figurative relationships. In a genealogical context, "sons" (plural form, _bānîm_) emphasizes direct lineage and the continuation of the family name and heritage. The Strong's definition highlights "builder of the family name," which is precisely the function of these individuals in a genealogy: they are the means by which identity, heritage, and tribal affiliation are passed down, ensuring the preservation of the community's structure and the fulfillment of God's promises through specific families.
* **Hebron (Hebrew, _Chebrôwn_):** From H2275, this name means "seat of association" or "fellowship." While famously a major city in Judah, here "Hebron" refers to a person, a descendant of Levi through Kohath. In the context of a Levite family, this etymological meaning could subtly allude to their communal role in the tabernacle or temple service, fostering fellowship between God and His people, and among the people themselves, as they facilitated worship and instruction.
* **Korah (Hebrew, _Qôrach_):** From H7141, this name means "ice" or "baldness." It is crucial to note that this Korah, listed as a son of Hebron the Levite, is *not* the infamous Korah who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness (as recorded in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion")). This distinction is vital, as the name was not uncommon among the Levites, and this particular Korah is simply listed as part of a legitimate and preserved Levitical lineage, without any negative connotation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Hebron;":** This introductory phrase immediately establishes the paternal head of the family whose descendants are about to be listed. It functions as a clear marker of direct lineage, emphasizing the continuity and structure of the family tree. In the Chronicler's meticulous record, this "Hebron" is specifically identified as a Levite, whose family played a significant, albeit often unheralded, role in the broader tribal and religious structure of Israel, even if their specific duties are not detailed in this precise verse. This phrase anchors the subsequent names within a legitimate and recognized family unit.
* **"Korah, and Tappuah, and Rekem, and Shema.":** This clause provides a straightforward enumeration of the four sons born to Hebron. The absence of further descriptive information about these individuals underscores the primary purpose of this verse: to record and preserve their names as part of the comprehensive genealogical record. In the Chronicler's post-exilic context, the mere inclusion of a name in these sacred records conferred identity, legitimacy, and a place within the re-established community, affirming their connection to the covenant people and their historical heritage. This simple listing serves as a foundational building block in the larger narrative of Israel's continuity.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 2:43, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy** itself. This is far more than a mere list; it is a meticulously structured historical record designed to establish lineage, affirm identity, and demonstrate the unbroken continuity of God's covenant people. Within this overarching device, **Enumeration** is prominently employed, presenting a simple, unadorned list of names. This straightforward listing serves to convey factual information without narrative embellishment, highlighting the Chronicler's profound focus on accuracy and comprehensive record-keeping as foundational for the restored community. The verse also utilizes **Formulaic Language** with the recurring "sons of X" structure, which provides a consistent and recognizable pattern throughout the genealogies, reinforcing the concept of direct descent and familial succession. Furthermore, the names themselves function as **Nominalism**, where the names are the primary data points, serving as essential markers in the vast, interconnected web of Israelite heritage. These devices collectively underscore the Chronicler's post-exilic agenda: to provide a firm and undeniable foundation for the re-established community by meticulously tracing their roots back through sacred history, thereby affirming their identity and their integral place in God's ongoing redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 2:43, though a simple list of names, resonates with profound theological implications. It powerfully reminds us that God is a God of order, meticulous detail, and unwavering faithfulness, painstakingly preserving the lineage of His people as an integral part of His grand redemptive plan. Every individual, even those who appear as seemingly minor figures in extensive genealogies, is known, accounted for, and valued by God. This divine attention to detail underscores the immense worth God places on each person and each generation, demonstrating His steadfast commitment to His covenant promises across the sweep of history. The very act of recording these names served to affirm the identity and legitimacy of the post-exilic community, connecting them directly to their heritage and God's historical work. It teaches us that our individual lives, no matter how ordinary or unheralded they may seem, are intricately woven into a larger divine tapestry, contributing to God's ongoing purposes for His people and the world.

* [Psalm 139:1-4](/psalms/139-1-4 "Psalm 139:1-4 - God's Omniscience and Intimate Knowledge")
* [Ezra 2:59-63](/ezra/2-59-63 "Ezra 2:59-63 - Importance of Genealogies for Priestly Claims and Identity")
* [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often measures worth by prominence, power, or public acclaim, 1 Chronicles 2:43 stands as a quiet but profound reminder of God's deep and abiding attention to every individual, even those whose lives are simply recorded as a name in a vast list. This seemingly dry verse invites us to reflect on the immeasurable value God places on *every* life and *every* part of His intricate, unfolding plan. Just as these names were crucial for the identity, continuity, and legitimacy of ancient Israel, our own lives, our families, and our spiritual heritage are profoundly significant in God's eyes. It encourages us to cultivate an appreciation for the "unseen" contributions—the faithful lives that may not make headlines or achieve worldly renown but are nonetheless foundational to the ongoing story of God's people. It fosters a profound sense of belonging to a larger spiritual family, a lineage of faith that stretches across generations, reminding us that we are part of something far greater than ourselves, meticulously woven into God's grand design for redemption and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Bible's meticulous attention to genealogies, as exemplified in 1 Chronicles 2:43, challenge our modern view of individual significance and historical importance?**
* **In what ways does understanding our spiritual heritage—the lineage of faith passed down through generations of believers—shape our identity and purpose in God's story today?**
* **What "unseen" or seemingly insignificant details in our own lives, or in the lives of those around us, might God be meticulously recording or using for His greater, eternal purposes?**

### FAQ
**Is the Korah mentioned in 1 Chronicles 2:43 the same Korah who rebelled against Moses in the wilderness?**

Answer: No, the Korah mentioned in [1 Chronicles 2:43](/1_chronicles/2-43 "1 Chronicles 2:43 - Sons of Hebron") is emphatically not the same individual who led the infamous rebellion against Moses and Aaron, as vividly recorded in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion"). While both were Levites, the Korah in Numbers was a son of Izhar, who was a son of Kohath (Numbers 16:1). In contrast, the Korah in 1 Chronicles 2:43 is identified as a son of Hebron, who was also a son of Kohath (as confirmed in [1 Chronicles 6:2](/1_chronicles/6-2 "1 Chronicles 6:2 - Lineage of Kohath") and [1 Chronicles 6:18](/1_chronicles/6-18 "1 Chronicles 6:18 - Sons of Kohath")). The name "Korah" was not uncommon among the Levites, and this particular Korah is simply listed as part of a legitimate and preserved Levitical lineage, entirely distinct from the notorious rebel.

**Why is a Levite family listed in 1 Chronicles 2, a chapter primarily focused on the tribe of Judah?**

Answer: The Chronicler's overarching purpose in composing 1 Chronicles was to provide a comprehensive and authoritative history and genealogical record for the entire nation of Israel, particularly for the post-exilic community. While chapters 2-4 do indeed focus heavily on the tribe of Judah, the Chronicler frequently and intentionally interweaves the genealogies of other significant tribes and families throughout the book, especially those of the priesthood (Levi) and the monarchy (Judah/David). The inclusion of Hebron's Levite family here demonstrates the Chronicler's meticulous and holistic approach to documenting all legitimate lineages. This ensured that the restored community understood their full heritage and the profound interconnectedness of all the tribes. It underscores that while Judah held particular prominence for the Davidic line and the future Messiah, the Levites were equally crucial for the nation's spiritual life, worship, and the proper functioning of the temple.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous genealogies of 1 Chronicles, including the seemingly minor entry of [1 Chronicles 2:43](/1_chronicles/2-43 "1 Chronicles 2:43 - Sons of Hebron"), find their ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus. The very act of God faithfully preserving these intricate lineages, ensuring continuity and identity through countless generations, powerfully points to His unwavering faithfulness in bringing forth the promised Messiah. Jesus' own genealogies, meticulously recorded in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"), trace His descent through both the royal line of David and the broader human family, thereby establishing His undisputed legitimacy as the King of Israel and the promised Savior of the world. The "sons of Hebron" (meaning "fellowship" or "association") prophetically foreshadow the new and ultimate fellowship that is found exclusively in Christ. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), creates a new spiritual lineage—a family of believers from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation—who are brought into intimate fellowship with God and with one another (as beautifully described in [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). Thus, the ancient records, with their emphasis on physical lineage and tribal identity, ultimately serve to highlight God's precise and unwavering plan to establish a spiritual family through Christ, fulfilling all the promises made to Israel and extending salvation to all who believe (see [Galatians 3:26-29](/galatians/3-26-29 "Galatians 3:26-29 - Children of God through Faith")).

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.