1 Chronicles 3:23

KJV

And the sons of Neariah; Elioenai, and Hezekiah, and Azrikam, three.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Neariah {H5294}; Elioenai {H454}, and Hezekiah {H2396}, and Azrikam {H5840}, three {H7969}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Ne'aryah: Elyo'einai, Hizkiyah and 'Azrikam - three.

Berean Standard Bible

The sons of Neariah: Elioenai, Hizkiah, and Azrikam—three in all.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Neariah: Elioenai, and Hizkiah, and Azrikam, three.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 3:23, a succinct verse within the extensive genealogical records of King David's descendants, meticulously lists the three sons of Neariah: Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam. This seemingly simple enumeration serves a profound purpose, not merely as a historical record, but as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving the royal Davidic line, even through periods of national upheaval and exile, thereby laying the groundwork for the eventual arrival of the promised Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Chapter 3 of 1 Chronicles is almost exclusively dedicated to tracing the royal lineage of King David, a pivotal focus for the Chronicler. It commences by detailing David's sons born in Hebron and Jerusalem, as found in [1 Chronicles 3:1-9](/1-chronicles/3-1-9 "1 Chronicles 3:1-9 - David's Sons and Their Birthplaces"). The narrative then meticulously follows the succession through Solomon and the subsequent kings of Judah, culminating in the pre-exilic and post-exilic periods. Verses [1 Chronicles 3:10-16](/1-chronicles/3-10-16 "1 Chronicles 3:10-16 - Kings of Judah from Solomon to Zedekiah") detail the kings from Solomon to Zedekiah, the last king before the Babylonian exile. Our verse, [1 Chronicles 3:23](/1-chronicles/3-23 "1 Chronicles 3:23 - The Sons of Neariah"), falls within the segment that focuses on the descendants of Jeconiah (also known as Jehoiachin), one of the last kings before the Babylonian exile, specifically from [1 Chronicles 3:17-24](/1-chronicles/3-17-24 "1 Chronicles 3:17-24 - Post-Exilic Davidic Line"). This placement demonstrates the remarkable continuity of the Davidic line even after the monarchy's apparent collapse and the nation's dispersion. The Chronicler's emphasis on this unbroken lineage underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant promises, particularly the one made to David concerning an eternal dynasty.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For ancient Israel, genealogies were far more than mere family trees; they were foundational documents crucial for establishing tribal identity, validating inheritance rights, determining eligibility for priestly or royal service, and confirming one's place within the covenant community. Following the devastating Babylonian exile, when the people returned to a devastated homeland, the meticulous preservation and reaffirmation of these records became paramount. They provided a tangible link to their past, a blueprint for reconstructing their society, and a powerful reminder of God's continued presence and purpose despite the national catastrophe. The Chronicler, writing in the post-exilic period (likely 5th or 4th century BCE), aimed to offer hope, stability, and continuity to a dispirited people. By demonstrating that God's plan for Israel, particularly through the Davidic dynasty, remained intact even when the throne was empty and the nation was under foreign rule, the Chronicler provided a theological anchor. This historical context highlights the deep spiritual and societal significance embedded in what might appear to be a dry list of names.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, like the entire chapter, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Faithfulness**, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with David, which promised an enduring dynasty and an eternal kingdom, as articulated in [2 Samuel 7:16](/2-samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David"). Even through the severe crucible of exile and the apparent discontinuity of the monarchy, the royal line was meticulously preserved, a profound testament to God's reliability and steadfast love. Secondly, it underscores the **Importance of Lineage and Heritage** for ancient Israel, where identity, rights, and responsibilities were inextricably linked to one's family tree and tribal affiliation. These records were vital for maintaining social order, land claims, and confirming who belonged to the covenant community. Lastly, the seemingly mundane list of names highlights **God's Sovereignty in History**. Each individual mentioned, including Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam, played a part, however small, in the unfolding of God's meticulous redemptive plan, demonstrating His providential oversight of human history, guiding it toward His ultimate purposes, which would eventually culminate in the Messiah. The Chronicler's emphasis on the post-exilic Davidic line, even without a reigning king, serves to keep the messianic hope alive, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 23:5-6](/jeremiah/23-5-6 "Jeremiah 23:5-6 - The Righteous Branch").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Neariah (Hebrew, _Nᵉʻaryâh'_):** This Hebrew name, derived from "na'ar" (youth/servant) and "Yah" (a shortened form of Yahweh), means "Servant of Yahweh" or "Youth of Yahweh." The name itself carries a theological weight, implying a dedication or association with God. In the context of a genealogy, it suggests that even in later generations, the family line maintained a connection, at least nominally, to the worship of the Lord. The very presence of such a name within the Davidic lineage reinforces the idea of God's continued oversight and interaction with His chosen line, even when the nation was in a state of humility and rebuilding.
* **Elioenai (Hebrew, _ʼElyᵉhôwʻêynay'_):** A profoundly significant Hebrew name meaning "Toward Yahweh (are) my eyes" or "My eyes are toward the Lord." This name is a powerful statement of trust, dependence, and hopeful expectation directed towards God. Its inclusion in this post-exilic genealogy is particularly poignant, as it reflects a spirit of longing and anticipation for divine intervention and restoration amidst a period of national humility and rebuilding. It suggests a family whose hope was firmly fixed on God, looking to Him for their future, perhaps for the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant.
* **Hezekiah (Hebrew, _Chizqîyâh'_):** This Hebrew name means "Strengthened of Jah" or "Yahweh strengthens." It is a name that signifies divine power, support, and resilience. While distinct from the famous King Hezekiah of Judah, the recurrence of such a name within the Davidic lineage speaks to a continued reliance on God's strength. In a post-exilic context, where the people faced immense challenges in rebuilding, a name like Hezekiah would serve as a reminder of God's ability to empower and sustain His people, reinforcing the theme of divine faithfulness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Neariah;":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the genealogical link, identifying the patriarch of this specific branch of the Davidic lineage. Neariah is presented as the father whose direct descendants are about to be listed, thereby continuing the meticulous tracing of the royal line established earlier in the chapter through Jeconiah. It signifies the ongoing propagation of the family, ensuring the continuity of the promised seed, a crucial element in the Chronicler's overarching theological purpose.
* **"Elioenai, and Hezekiah, and Azrikam, three.":** This clause provides the specific names of Neariah's three sons. Each name is distinct, yet together they form a complete unit, emphasizing the completeness of this particular familial entry. The explicit mention of "three" (שְׁלֹשָׁה, _shəlōšāh_) serves to confirm the exact number of sons being recorded, adding to the precision and verifiable nature of the genealogy. The names themselves, as noted in the key word analysis, often carry profound theological meanings, subtly reinforcing the spiritual undercurrents within this historical record and hinting at the family's orientation towards God.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 3:23, and indeed throughout much of Chapter 3, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list of names but a structured literary form used to establish lineage, legitimacy, and historical continuity. In the Chronicler's work, genealogies serve a profound theological purpose, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving the Davidic line despite national setbacks and the absence of a king on the throne. The **Conciseness** of the verse, listing names without elaboration, highlights the meticulous record-keeping and the importance placed on the names themselves as markers of identity and connection within the covenant community. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the genealogical pattern (e.g., "the sons of X were Y, Z, and A") creates a rhythmic, authoritative tone, reinforcing the veracity and systematic nature of the historical account. This structured presentation emphasizes the unbroken chain of descent, providing comfort and hope to a post-exilic community looking for tangible signs of God's enduring covenant and the eventual fulfillment of His promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 3:23, though a brief entry in a long list of names, resonates with profound theological implications. It stands as a silent yet powerful witness to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, particularly the Davidic covenant. Even when the earthly monarchy had fallen and the people were scattered in exile, the meticulous preservation of this lineage in the biblical record testifies to a divine hand at work, ensuring that the promised seed would continue. This verse, therefore, is not just about human history but about divine faithfulness, demonstrating that God's plans are not thwarted by human failures or historical calamities. It implicitly points forward to the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic line in the person of Jesus Christ, whose own genealogies in the New Testament meticulously trace His descent through this very lineage, underscoring His legitimacy as the promised King and the true heir to David's throne. The Chronicler's purpose was to instill hope, reminding his audience that despite appearances, God's redemptive plan was steadily progressing towards its glorious culmination.

* [2 Samuel 7:16](/2-samuel/7-16 "God's Covenant with David")
* [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-17 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")
* [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a simple listing of names, 1 Chronicles 3:23 offers enduring spiritual lessons for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us that every life, no matter how seemingly insignificant or briefly mentioned in the grand narrative of Scripture, holds a vital place within God's overarching plan. Just as Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam were crucial links in a divine chain, so too are our lives purposed and positioned by God. We are not random occurrences but integral parts of His unfolding story of redemption. This should instill in us a profound sense of dignity and purpose. Secondly, the remarkable preservation of this lineage, despite the immense challenges faced by the Israelite nation—including exile, the loss of their kingdom, and the apparent cessation of the Davidic monarchy—serves as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. If God meticulously kept His promise to preserve a physical line for the Messiah, we can trust that He will fulfill all His promises to us, both personally and corporately. This verse encourages us to find stability and hope not in our fluctuating circumstances, but in the unchanging character and steadfast love of God. Finally, understanding our spiritual heritage, the long and winding story of God's people, provides essential context for our own faith journey. It grounds us in a rich history of divine interaction and human response, encouraging us to live faithfully within that ongoing story, knowing that we are part of something far greater than ourselves—a divine narrative culminating in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous preservation of genealogies in the Bible, like 1 Chronicles 3:23, deepen your understanding of God's faithfulness and His commitment to His promises?**
* **In what ways does knowing that every name, even those briefly mentioned, matters to God in His grand plan, impact your view of your own life, purpose, and significance in His story?**
* **How can reflecting on the continuity of God's promises, as seen in this verse through the Davidic line, strengthen your trust in Him during times of uncertainty or apparent discontinuity in your own life?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 3:23, so important in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial for several reasons in the biblical narrative. They establish identity, confirming tribal affiliation and legitimate claims to land, inheritance, and specific roles (like priesthood or kingship). Theologically, they demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving specific lines, particularly the Davidic lineage, through which the Messiah was promised to come. They also highlight the continuity of God's redemptive plan through generations, showing how individual lives contribute to a larger divine purpose. For the post-exilic community, these records were vital for rebuilding society, reaffirming their connection to God's covenant people, and sustaining hope in the fulfillment of promises like the Davidic covenant found in [2 Samuel 7](/2-samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

**What is the significance of the names mentioned in this verse: Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam?**

Answer: While we have no specific narratives about these individuals, their names themselves carry profound meaning, which is common in Hebrew culture and often reflected the hopes or circumstances of the parents. "Elioenai" means "Toward Yahweh are my eyes," expressing trust and hope in God, a poignant sentiment for a family living in the post-exilic period. "Hezekiah" means "Yahweh strengthens," a name associated with divine power and support, famously borne by a righteous king of Judah. "Azrikam" means "My help has arisen" or "My help has risen up," again pointing to divine assistance and intervention. These names, though belonging to individuals about whom little else is known, subtly reinforce the theological undercurrents of the genealogy, suggesting a family that continued to acknowledge and rely on God even in challenging times, and perhaps looked forward to His ultimate deliverance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 3:23, with its seemingly mundane list of names, is a vital thread in the grand tapestry of God's redemptive plan, ultimately pointing with unwavering precision to Jesus Christ. The Chronicler's meticulous preservation of the Davidic lineage, even through the post-exilic period when the earthly throne was empty and the nation dispersed, underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with David—a covenant promising an eternal kingdom and an enduring descendant, as powerfully articulated in [2 Samuel 7:16](/2-samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David"). Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam are not just historical figures; they are crucial, divinely ordained links in this unbroken chain, demonstrating God's providential hand guiding history towards its ultimate goal. The New Testament genealogies of Jesus, meticulously recorded in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/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"), explicitly trace His descent through this very line, confirming His legitimate claim as the Son of David and the promised Messiah. Thus, 1 Chronicles 3:23, far from being an isolated historical detail, is a profound testament to God's faithfulness, meticulously preparing the way for the arrival of the one who would truly fulfill the Davidic promise: Jesus, the "Root and the Descendant of David" ([Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, Root and Descendant of David")), whose kingdom is eternal and whose name is above all names, establishing a spiritual reign that transcends any earthly monarchy.

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.