1 Chronicles 2:53

KJV

And the families of Kirjathjearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites, and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zareathites, and the Eshtaulites.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the families {H4940} of Kirjathjearim {H7157}; the Ithrites {H3505}, and the Puhites {H6336}, and the Shumathites {H8126}, and the Mishraites {H4954}; of them came {H3318} the Zareathites {H6882}, and the Eshtaulites {H848}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The families of Kiryat-Ye'arim: the Yitri, the Puti, the Shumati and the Mishra'i; from them came the Tzor'ati and the Eshta'uli.

Berean Standard Bible

Haroeh, half the Manahathites, and the clans of Kiriath-jearim—the Ithrites, Puthites, Shumathites, and Mishraites. From these descended the Zorathites and Eshtaolites.

American Standard Version

And the families of Kiriath-jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites, and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites and the Eshtaolites.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:53 is an intricate component of the extensive genealogical records found in the opening chapters of the book, meticulously detailing specific family groups—the Ithrites, Puhites, Shumathites, and Mishraites—associated with the historically significant Judean town of Kirjathjearim. This verse further identifies the Zareathites and Eshtaulites as originating from these families, thereby illuminating the complex social and tribal fabric of ancient Israel and underscoring the careful preservation of lineage within the tribe of Judah, from whom the Davidic royal line and ultimately the Messiah would descend.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the lengthy and foundational genealogies that open the book of 1 Chronicles, tracing Israel's lineage from Adam through the various tribes. Chapter 2 specifically dedicates itself to the tribe of Judah, emphasizing its prominence as the royal tribe. Verses 18-55 provide a detailed account of the descendants of Caleb, son of Hezron, particularly through his son Hur and his wife Ephrathah. 1 Chronicles 2:53, by listing families associated with Kirjathjearim, contributes to this meticulous record of Caleb's progeny, establishing the intricate web of kinship and geographical settlement within Judah. The Chronicler's purpose in presenting such detailed genealogies was to re-establish the identity, legitimacy, and continuity of the post-exilic community with their pre-exilic heritage, particularly emphasizing the Davidic covenant and the importance of the temple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, genealogical records were not mere curiosities but vital documents that underpinned societal structure. They determined land inheritance, tribal affiliation, eligibility for religious roles (priesthood and Levitical service), and even marriage alliances. The post-exilic period, during which Chronicles was likely compiled, made these records even more critical for the returning exiles to reclaim their heritage and rebuild their communities. Kirjathjearim itself was a significant town located on the border between Judah and Benjamin, known for its historical role as the temporary dwelling place of the Ark of the Covenant for two decades before David brought it to Jerusalem ([1 Samuel 7:1](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1 - The Ark at Kirjathjearim")). The family names listed in this verse are gentilic, indicating a familial or clan association with a particular place or ancestor, reflecting the strong ties between kin groups and specific geographical locations that formed the social and administrative fabric of Israelite communities.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous detail of 1 Chronicles 2:53 contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. First, it highlights **Meticulous Record-Keeping**, underscoring the ancient Israelites' profound commitment to preserving family and tribal lineages. These detailed records were crucial for establishing land rights, tribal identity, and fulfilling prophecies concerning specific families, such as the [lineage of Judah](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - Jacob's Prophecy for Judah"). Second, it emphasizes **Tribal and Communal Identity**, demonstrating the strong ties between specific kin groups and geographical locations. These families formed the social and administrative fabric of their communities, providing a deep sense of belonging and shared heritage. Third, the preservation of these lines, despite centuries of migration, slavery, and warfare, speaks to **God's Faithfulness in Preservation**, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, particularly those related to the [perpetuity of David's house](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David"). This seemingly minor verse, therefore, is a testament to God's sovereign hand guiding history toward His redemptive purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kirjathjearim (Hebrew, _Qiryat Ye'arim'_):** Meaning "City of Forests," this was a significant town in the territory of Judah, strategically located on the border with Benjamin. Its inclusion here grounds these families geographically and historically, connecting them to a place of national and religious importance, particularly as the site where the Ark of the Covenant rested for many years.
* **Ithrites (Hebrew, _Yitrî'_):** This is a gentilic name, indicating a clan or family descending from an individual named Yeter or Yithra. The presence of such patronymic names throughout the genealogies underscores the importance of individual progenitors in establishing family identity and lineage within the broader tribal structure.
* **Zareathites (Hebrew, _Tsor'atî'_):** Another gentilic name, this likely denotes inhabitants or descendants from Zorah, a town situated in the Shephelah of Judah (cf. [Joshua 15:33](/joshua/15-33 "Joshua 15:33 - Towns in the Shephelah")). Its mention here, alongside Eshtaulites, highlights the close geographical and familial connections between these related communities within the same region of Judah.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the families of Kirjathjearim":** This introductory phrase establishes the primary focus of the clause, identifying the collective identity of the groups that follow. It emphasizes their association with, and perhaps their settlement in, the significant Judean town of Kirjathjearim, indicating a communal rather than purely individual listing.
* **"the Ithrites, and the Puhites, and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites":** These are the specific family groups or clans directly associated with Kirjathjearim. Their explicit enumeration underscores the granular detail of the Chronicler's record, highlighting the importance of individual family units and their distinct identities within the larger tribal and regional framework of Judah.
* **"of them came the Zareathites, and the Eshtaulites":** This concluding phrase indicates a derivative relationship, suggesting that the Zareathites and Eshtaulites either descended directly from the previously listed families or were closely affiliated sub-clans or groups that originated from them. Zorah and Eshtaol were neighboring towns in Judah, further cementing the geographical and familial connections within this specific region and demonstrating the expansion and branching of family lines.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 2:53, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a dry list of names but a foundational narrative technique used to establish identity, legitimacy, inheritance rights, and continuity for the post-exilic community. The Chronicler employs **Enumeration** and **Cataloging** to systematically list families and their origins, creating a comprehensive record that reinforces the divine order and structure intended for God's people. The consistent use of this meticulous listing also serves as a form of **Repetition**, emphasizing the Chronicler's commitment to detail and the theological significance of every link in the chain of God's chosen people, ultimately pointing to the preservation of the lineage that would lead to the Messiah.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous detail of 1 Chronicles 2:53, though seemingly mundane in its listing of ancient family names, underscores profound theological truths about God's sovereign care over His people's history. It demonstrates that every individual and family, even those not prominent in grand historical narratives, holds a place within His intricate redemptive plan. This divine preservation of lineage was not arbitrary but purposeful, ensuring the continuity of the covenant people and, ultimately, the fulfillment of promises concerning the Messiah. The Chronicler's intense focus on Judah's lineage highlights the divine hand guiding history towards the establishment of the Davidic kingship and the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. This verse, therefore, quietly affirms God's faithfulness to His promises across generations.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Table of Nations")
* [Nehemiah 7:64](/nehemiah/7-64 "Nehemiah 7:64 - Genealogical Records for Priesthood")
* [Luke 3:23](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23 - The Genealogy of Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While we may not have our own family trees meticulously recorded in sacred texts, 1 Chronicles 2:53 invites us to consider our place in God's ongoing story. It reminds us that God sees and values every individual and every family, no matter how obscure they may seem to human eyes. This verse encourages us to appreciate our heritage, recognizing the unique contributions of our families, communities, and cultural backgrounds to who we are. More profoundly, it calls us to understand that just as these ancient lineages contributed to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, our lives, too, are woven into His larger tapestry. We are invited to live intentionally as part of His people, contributing to His kingdom purposes in our own time and place, trusting that our seemingly small contributions are seen and valued by the God who meticulously records every detail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous record-keeping in this verse challenge our modern tendency to overlook or devalue seemingly "ordinary" lives or details?**
* **In what ways does understanding our own heritage or community ties deepen our sense of identity and purpose, echoing the importance of lineage in ancient Israel?**
* **How does the preservation of these family lines speak to God's faithfulness, and what does that faithfulness mean for our lives today, especially when facing uncertainties?**

### FAQ
**Why are these genealogies so long and detailed in Chronicles?**

Answer: The extensive genealogies in Chronicles serve several crucial purposes, especially for the post-exilic community to whom the book was primarily addressed. They re-established tribal identity, land rights, and eligibility for priestly and Levitical service after the return from Babylon. They also demonstrated the continuity of God's covenant promises, particularly the Davidic line, assuring the people that God's plan was still unfolding despite their exile. For instance, the detailed listing of families like those from [Kirjathjearim](/1_chronicles/2-53 "1 Chronicles 2:53 - Families of Kirjathjearim") helped reconstruct the social and religious fabric of the nation, ensuring that the restored community knew its heritage and its place within God's historical narrative, as seen in the broader context of [1 Chronicles 1-9](/1_chronicles/1 "1 Chronicles 1-9 - Genealogies").

**What is the significance of Kirjathjearim in this verse?**

Answer: Kirjathjearim, meaning "City of Forests," was a historically significant town in the territory of Judah, situated on the border with Benjamin. Its most notable role in Israelite history was serving as the temporary resting place for the Ark of the Covenant for 20 years after its return from the Philistines, before King David brought it to Jerusalem ([1 Samuel 7:1-2](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1-2 - The Ark at Kirjathjearim")). By listing families associated with this specific town, the Chronicler not only provides geographical context but also connects these lineages to a place of significant religious and national memory. It underscores the deep integration of specific families into the historical and spiritual landscape of Judah, highlighting their rootedness in the land and its sacred history.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 2:53 appears to be a mere list of names, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in its contribution to the meticulous preservation of the lineage through which the Messiah would come. The Chronicler's intense focus on the tribe of Judah, and specifically on the descendants of Caleb and Hur, is not arbitrary; it is part of the divine tapestry ensuring the continuity of the covenant line. This seemingly obscure verse is a small, yet vital, thread in the grand genealogical narrative that culminates in Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate "Son of David" and "Son of Abraham," whose [genealogy is painstakingly recorded](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") in the New Testament, directly linking Him to these ancient Israelite families and the promises made to Judah ([Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - The Scepter from Judah")). The very existence of these detailed records, preserving the family lines of Judah, underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His redemptive plan, culminating in the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the one who fulfills all the hopes embedded in these ancient family histories. Thus, even in a list of forgotten names, we find the echoes of God's sovereign preparation for the coming of His Son, our Savior.

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.