1 Chronicles 3:5

KJV

And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:

KJV (with Strong's)

And these were born {H3205} unto him in Jerusalem {H3389}; Shimea {H8092}, and Shobab {H7727}, and Nathan {H5416}, and Solomon {H8010}, four {H702}, of Bathshua {H1340} the daughter {H1323} of Ammiel {H5988}:

Complete Jewish Bible

These were born to him in Yerushalayim: Shim'a, Shovav, Natan, Shlomo, four whose mother was Bat-Shua the daughter of 'Ammi'el;

Berean Standard Bible

and these sons were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were born to him by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel.

American Standard Version

and these were born unto him in Jerusalem: Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bath-shua the daughter of Ammiel;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse from 1 Chronicles 3:5 meticulously lists four of King David's sons born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon, identifying their mother as Bathshua, daughter of Ammiel. As part of an extensive genealogy, this record serves to affirm the legitimacy of the Davidic royal line, particularly highlighting Solomon as the chosen successor and subtly pointing to the broader unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage that would eventually lead to the Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 3 is part of a larger genealogical section (Chapters 1-9) that opens the book of 1 Chronicles. Unlike 2 Samuel, which focuses on David's reign and personal narrative, Chronicles emphasizes the continuity of the Davidic covenant and the legitimate succession of the kings of Judah, particularly in light of the post-exilic community's need for identity and connection to their heritage. Chapter 3 specifically details David's sons, first those born in Hebron, then those born "in Jerusalem," signifying the establishment and stability of his kingdom. This meticulous listing underscores the divine preservation of the royal line, which was crucial for the temple-centric community of the Chronicler, as the Davidic king was God's chosen representative.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The births listed in 1 Chronicles 3:5 occurred during David's mature reign, after he had conquered Jerusalem and made it his capital (c. 1000 BCE). This period marked the zenith of the united monarchy. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, genealogies were not merely lists of names but served vital functions: establishing legitimacy for kings, land claims, priestly roles, and tribal identity. The mention of "Jerusalem" is significant, as it was the spiritual and political center of David's kingdom. The practice of polygamy, as evidenced by David having multiple wives and concubines, was common among kings and powerful figures of the era, reflecting social norms and often strategic alliances, though it frequently led to internal strife, as seen in David's own family.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Chronicles. Primarily, it reinforces the theme of **Royal Lineage and Succession**, detailing the direct descendants of David who would inherit the throne, with Solomon explicitly named as the one who would build the temple and continue the dynasty. Secondly, it subtly highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Covenant Faithfulness**. Despite the complex and often morally fraught circumstances surrounding the union of David and Bathsheba (implied by the identification of "Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel" with Bathsheba, daughter of Eliam, from [2 Samuel 11:3](/2_samuel/11-3 "2 Samuel 11:3 - Bathsheba, daughter of Eliam")), God's plan for the Davidic line unfolds precisely as promised in the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Lastly, the inclusion of Nathan, whose lineage is traced to Jesus in the New Testament, introduces a profound element of **Messianic Hope**, demonstrating how God's redemptive purposes weave through seemingly ordinary historical records, pointing towards the ultimate King.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bathshua (Hebrew, _Bat-shua'_):** This name, literally meaning "daughter of opulence" or "daughter of an oath," is widely understood by scholars to be a variant of "Bathsheba," as found in the parallel accounts in 2 Samuel (e.g., [2 Samuel 11:3](/2_samuel/11-3 "2 Samuel 11:3 - Bathsheba, daughter of Eliam")). The variation in the father's name ("Ammiel" here versus "Eliam" in 2 Samuel) is also common in ancient texts, possibly reflecting different scribal traditions, a patronymic, or a double name. The Chronicler's use of "Bathshua" does not negate her identity but rather presents an alternative traditional form, emphasizing her role as the mother of the future king Solomon, thus legitimizing his lineage within the Davidic dynasty.
* **Nathan (Hebrew, _Natan_):** Meaning "He has given" or "Gift," Nathan is significant not for his direct role in the Davidic succession (Solomon was chosen), but for his later prominence in the genealogies of Jesus Christ, particularly in Luke's account ([Luke 3:31](/luke/3-31 "Luke 3:31 - Jesus' Genealogy through Nathan")). His inclusion here, alongside the royal heir Solomon, subtly foreshadows the dual lines of Davidic descent that would eventually converge in the Messiah, highlighting God's multifaceted and often surprising ways of fulfilling His promises.
* **Solomon (Hebrew, _Shlomo_):** Derived from the root meaning "peace" or "completeness," Solomon's name is highly symbolic of the peaceful and prosperous reign that would follow David's tumultuous rule. His inclusion here is paramount, as he was the designated successor to David's throne and the builder of the First Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling a key promise of the Davidic Covenant. His presence in this list solidifies the royal line through which the covenant promises would continue to flow.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And these were born unto him in Jerusalem;":** This introductory phrase immediately establishes the setting and context for the subsequent names. "Him" refers to King David. The specific mention of "in Jerusalem" is crucial, indicating that these sons were born after David had firmly established his capital there, signifying a period of stability and the consolidation of his kingdom, contrasting with sons born earlier in Hebron. It underlines the legitimacy and divine sanction of David's rule from the chosen city.
* **"Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four,":** This clause provides a precise enumeration of the four sons born to David by this particular mother in Jerusalem. The listing of specific names, including the future king Solomon, serves to meticulously document the royal lineage. The order might reflect birth order or significance, with Solomon, the eventual heir, being listed last among this group, perhaps to emphasize his climactic importance. The number "four" provides a clear, verifiable count, reinforcing the historical accuracy and genealogical precision.
* **"of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:":** This final clause identifies the mother of these four sons. As discussed, "Bathshua" is a variant of Bathsheba, and "Ammiel" a variant of Eliam. The explicit identification of the mother is vital for tracing lineage, especially in a polygamous society. This detail ensures that the royal line through Solomon is clearly defined and connected to a specific, albeit controversial, union in David's life, demonstrating God's ability to work through human imperfection to achieve His divine purposes.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 3:5, and indeed throughout much of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a dry list of names but a sophisticated literary and theological tool. Genealogies serve to establish historical continuity, legitimate claims to kingship and land, and demonstrate the faithfulness of God in preserving His covenant promises through generations. The meticulous listing of names, including parentage and place of birth, functions as a form of **Historical Documentation**, anchoring the narrative in verifiable lineage. Furthermore, the inclusion of Nathan, whose line leads to Christ, alongside Solomon's royal line, demonstrates **Foreshadowing**, subtly pointing to the future unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The **Repetition** of genealogical patterns throughout Chronicles reinforces the divine order and the unwavering nature of God's covenant with David.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 3:5, though a simple genealogical entry, is profoundly theological. It underscores God's meticulous attention to detail in the unfolding of His redemptive plan, demonstrating His faithfulness to the Davidic Covenant despite human sin and imperfection. The specific naming of Solomon, the designated heir and temple builder, highlights the continuity of God's promise to establish David's throne forever. Moreover, the inclusion of Nathan's lineage, which would later be traced to Jesus through Mary, reveals the intricate and often surprising ways God works through history, ensuring that every detail contributes to the ultimate arrival of the Messiah. It reminds us that God's sovereignty extends even to the seemingly mundane records of family trees, weaving together human history with divine purpose.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "The Davidic Covenant Promise")
* [Matthew 1:6](/matthew/1-6 "Jesus' Genealogy through Solomon")
* [Luke 3:31](/luke/3-31 "Jesus' Genealogy through Nathan")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly ordinary verse invites us to reflect on the extraordinary nature of God's faithfulness. It reminds us that God's grand narrative of salvation is woven through the fabric of real human families, with all their complexities, triumphs, and failures. The inclusion of Bathsheba, a figure associated with David's greatest sin, yet also the mother of Solomon and an ancestor of Jesus, powerfully illustrates God's ability to redeem and work through brokenness. We are encouraged to see that no detail in God's plan is insignificant, and even a list of names can bear profound spiritual weight, pointing to His unwavering commitment to His promises across generations. This verse calls us to trust in God's sovereign hand, knowing that He is meticulously working out His purposes, even in the seemingly mundane or imperfect aspects of our lives and history.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of Bathsheba (Bathshua) in this genealogy speak to God's grace and ability to work through human imperfection?**
* **What significance do you find in the meticulous detailing of genealogies in Scripture, and how does it inform your understanding of God's plan?**
* **How does the mention of Nathan in this verse, knowing his later connection to Jesus' genealogy, deepen your appreciation for God's long-term faithfulness?**
* **In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the "ordinary" details of our own lives, just as it is evident in this genealogical record?**

### FAQ

**Why is Bathsheba called Bathshua in this verse, and her father Ammiel instead of Eliam?**

Answer: The variation in names, "Bathshua" for Bathsheba and "Ammiel" for Eliam, is a common phenomenon in ancient Hebrew texts and does not indicate a different individual. Scholars generally agree that "Bathshua" is an alternate spelling or a traditional variant of "Bathsheba." Similarly, "Ammiel" could be an alternate name for Eliam, his father, or a scribal variation. The Chronicler often uses slightly different spellings or names compared to the books of Samuel and Kings, possibly reflecting different textual traditions, dialectal variations, or even a theological emphasis. For instance, "Bathshua" might emphasize a different aspect of her identity or simply be the preferred form in the Chronicler's source material. The core identity of the mother of Solomon remains consistent with the narrative found in [2 Samuel 11](/2_samuel/11 "2 Samuel 11 - David and Bathsheba").

**What is the particular significance of Nathan among David's sons listed here?**

Answer: While Solomon was the son chosen to succeed David on the throne and build the Temple, Nathan holds profound significance due to his role in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Luke traces Jesus' lineage through Mary back to David via Nathan ([Luke 3:31](/luke/3-31 "Luke 3:31 - Jesus' Genealogy through Nathan")), while Matthew traces it through Joseph via Solomon ([Matthew 1:6](/matthew/1-6 "Matthew 1:6 - Jesus' Genealogy through Solomon")). This dual lineage from David, through two different sons, underscores the comprehensive fulfillment of God's promises to David. Nathan's inclusion here, therefore, subtly points to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan beyond the immediate royal succession, highlighting the broader Messianic hope that would ultimately culminate in Jesus, the true King of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 3:5, though a seemingly dry genealogical entry, pulsates with Christ-centered significance. It is a vital link in the unbroken chain of the Davidic lineage, through which God promised an eternal king and an everlasting kingdom ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). The verse names Solomon, the son who would build the first temple and usher in a period of peace, foreshadowing the ultimate Son of David, Jesus Christ, who would build a spiritual temple not made with hands ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone")) and bring eternal peace to His people ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). Crucially, the mention of Nathan, often overlooked in favor of Solomon, is equally profound, as the Gospel of Luke traces Jesus' ancestry through Nathan's line, providing a distinct yet equally valid Davidic connection for the Messiah ([Luke 3:31](/luke/3-31 "Luke 3:31 - Jesus' Genealogy through Nathan")). Thus, this single verse testifies to God's meticulous sovereignty, demonstrating how His redemptive plan, spanning generations and working through human imperfection (as seen with Bathsheba), faithfully preserved the royal line until the arrival of the promised Christ, the true King of kings and Lord of lords, who now reigns eternally ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

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 11:3

And David sent and enquired after the woman. And [one] said, [Is] not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?

2 Samuel 12:24

And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.

2 Samuel 12:25

And he sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet; and he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD.

Matthew 1:6

And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her [that had been the wife] of Urias;

1 Chronicles 14:4

Now these [are] the names of [his] children which he had in Jerusalem; Shammua, and Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon,

1 Chronicles 14:7

And Elishama, and Beeliada, and Eliphalet.

Luke 3:31

Which was [the son] of Melea, which was [the son] of Menan, which was [the son] of Mattatha, which was [the son] of Nathan, which was [the son] of David,