TRV
Translation
King James Version
These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.
Complete Jewish Bible
All these were sons of David, apart from the sons of the concubines; Tamar was their sister.
Berean Standard Bible
These were all the sons of David, besides the sons by his concubines. And Tamar was their sister.
American Standard Version
All these were the sons of David, besides the sons of the concubines; and Tamar was their sister.
World English Bible Messianic
All these were the sons of David, besides the sons of the concubines; and Tamar was their sister.
Geneva Bible (1599)
These are all the sonnes of Dauid, besides the sonnes of the concubines, and Thamar their sister.
Young's Literal Translation
All are sons of David, apart from sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.
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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 3 verses 1–9
1 ¶ Now these were the sons of David, which were born unto him in Hebron; the firstborn Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second Daniel, of Abigail the Carmelitess:
2 The third, Absalom the son of Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur: the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith:
3 The fifth, Shephatiah of Abital: the sixth, Ithream by Eglah his wife.
4 These six were born unto him in Hebron; and there he reigned seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.
5 And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:
6 Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet,
7 And Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia,
8 And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphelet, nine.
9 These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.
We had an account of David's sons, Sa2 3:2, etc., and Sa2 5:14, etc. 1. He had many sons; and no doubt wrote as he thought, Psa 127:5. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of these arrows. 2. Some of them were a grief to him, as Amnon, Absalom, and Adonijah; and we do not read of any of them that imitated his piety or devotion except Solomon, and he came far short of it. 3. One of them, which Bath-sheba bore to him, he called Nathan, probably in honour of Nathan the prophet, who reproved him for his sin in that matter and was instrumental to bring him to repentance. It seems he loved him the better for it as long as he lived. It is wisdom to esteem those our best friends that deal faithfully with us. From this son of David our Lord Jesus descended, as appears Luk 3:31. 4. Here are two Elishamas, and two Eliphelets, Ch1 3:6, Ch1 3:8. Probably the two former were dead, and therefore David called two more by their names, which he would not have done if there had been any ill omen in this practice as some fancy. 5. David had many concubines; but their children are not named, as not worthy of the honour (Ch1 3:9), the rather because the concubines had dealt treacherously with David in the affair of Absalom. 6. Of all David's sons Solomon was chosen to succeed him, perhaps not for any personal merits (his wisdom was God's gift), but so, Father, because it seemed good unto thee.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–9. Public domain.
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Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON FIRST CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The Chronicles also speak about the tabernacle because a temple of the Lord had not yet been built by either Samuel or David. The text also adds that that the holy services were held in the tabernacle. Worship was observed at that time according to the number of the days of the week. For it also says, “and their kindred who were in their villages were obliged to come in every seven days, in turn, to be with them.” With regard to the holy utensils it says, “Some of them had charge of the utensils of service, for they were required to count them when they were brought in and taken out. Others of them were appointed over the furniture, and over all the holy utensils, also over the choice flour, the wine, the oil, the incense and the spices.” And about the priests it says, “Others, of the sons of the priests, prepared the mixing of the spices.” With regard to the tomb of Saul the Chronicles gives us much information, and in the Book of Kings itself we read that his bones were gathered and buried in the land of Jabesh.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
There is abundant information in the books of Chronicles which were written to continue the books of the Kings and to preserve the memory of such important events. The first book begins with a genealogy that sets out to demonstrate how the human race came from a single man. Since it focuses only on the single kingdom of Judah, it can tell us about its cities and the villages, and from where they took their names. Here we come to know Nathan, from whom the blessed Luke constructed the beginning of his genealogy of our Lord and Savior, Son of David and Solomon’s brother4 on his mother’s side: “The following children were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimeah, Shobab, Nathan and Solomon, that is, the four children he fathered with Bersabea, daughter of Ammiel.” And Rechab6 herself, who is mentioned in many books of Scripture, is said to have come from the tribe of Judah.It also clearly explains why Reuben lost his birthright and Joseph gained it and also, finally, the reason why the tribe of Judah obtained the highest honor: “The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. He was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, so that he is not enrolled in the genealogy according to the birthright; though Judah became prominent among his brothers and a ruler came from him, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph.” It also explains the reason why such a great honor was conceded to Joseph. By the will of God Judah had the dignity of receiving the Lord who was born from him according to the flesh. This is the sense tacitly expressed with the words “a leader from him.” Indeed the passage seems to assert that not only the kings of the earth derived from Judah, but also the eternal king himself who had no beginning and will never end.
It also describes the situation of the tribes beyond the Jordan, those of Reuben and Gad, and even the tribes of Manasseh which later were received into those of the Hagarites and the Itureans, and talks about the tribes of the Naphiseans, and all those peoples who entered into conflict with them. In addition the text relates how they fought and won, and made the Hagarites flee. And it also reports the reason for the victory: “When they received help against them, the Hagarites and all who were with them were given into their hands, for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their entreaty because they trusted in him.” It also describes the amount of the spoils of war: “They captured their livestock: 50, of their camels, 250, sheep, 2, donkeys and 100, captives. Many were slain because the war was from God. And they lived in their territory until the exile.”
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The genealogy of the priests and the Levites comes after this. It relates that Zadok, who was high priest at the time of David, had been the eleventh from Aaron; that Azariah, nephew of Zadok, had been the first to receive the priestly anointing in the temple built by Solomon. Among them there was also Jehozadak, who was brought to Babylon as a war prisoner. Jesus9 was his son, a high priest as well, who delivered the people from bondage together with Zerubbabel, and built a temple for the Lord. Here we also learn that Korah, who revolted against the great Moses, was a nephew of Isaar, son of Caath and brother of Amram, Aaron’s and Moses’ father. According to this lineage he was related to the first legislator. But he himself paid in the desert for his errors, although his children did not share the punishment of their father. From here Samuel13 came and then Aeman, who intoned Psalms and was a nephew of the prophet Samuel. In fact he was the son of Joel, son of Samuel. On the other hand, Asaph, one of the singers, came from the lineage of Gerson, son of Levi and brother of Caath. Aetham, who also belonged to the group of the singers, had Merari, the third son of Levi, as great-grandfather.The text also explains the difference between the priests and the Levites. It relates that the Levites were initiated into all the ministries of the holy altar of God: “But Aaron and his sons made offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense, doing all the work of the most holy place, to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.” It seems to me, in fact, that this book was written after the return from Babylon. For this reason it also talks about the bondage and explains its cause: “So all Israel was enrolled by genealogies; and these are written in the book of the Kings of Israel. And Judah was taken into exile in Babylon because of their unfaithfulness. Now the first to live again in their possessions in their towns were Israelites, priests, Levites, and temple servants.” These accounts show that the book was begun after the captivity. Indeed no historian ever relates facts that happened afterwards, but what happened before or during his times. And actually only the prophets have the power to foretell the future. In addition it says that also those who had inhabited that land before them had been enslaved. And actually many of them still live with them: the Canaanites, Chettites, Jebusites, who had been their companions in such a misfortune. Also the priests and the Levites were brought into captivity with the Israelites. I believe that those who were called “the saints’ servants” were then called Nathinim. Many of them, in fact, consecrated themselves to the ministries of the priests and the Levites. There were among them also those who were entrusted with the carrying of the water, the gathering of wood and other necessary duties. Indeed, if it was imposed to the Gabaonites, who were foreigners, to follow Joshua in the praises and to perform some works as porters or carpenters, this task was even more the duty of the Israelites. As a proof of this I have found in the interpretation of Hebrew names that this name means “house of Iaō,” that is, “of the God who is.” The text, in fact, mentions the children of Israel and among them Judah and Benjamin, and Ephraim18 and Manasseh. It also mentions the priests and the Levites, who inhabited those cities. About the Korēnites it says that they derived from Korah. It also says that among them there had been the guardians of the temple of God as well, and it seems that this custom had been introduced by Samuel and David. “All these, who were chosen as gatekeepers at the thresholds, were two hundred twelve. They were enrolled by genealogies in their villages. David and the prophet Samuel established them in their office of trust. So they and their descendants were in charge of the gates of the house of the Lord, that is, the house of the tent, as guards. The gatekeepers were on the four sides, east, west, north, and south.”
Richard ChallonerAD 1781
The concubines: The inferior wives.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 3:9 serves as a concluding summary within the meticulous genealogies of David's royal lineage, specifically enumerating his children born in Jerusalem. This verse comprehensively accounts for all his male offspring from principal wives, explicitly distinguishes those born from concubines, and notably includes his daughter Tamar, thereby providing a complete, albeit succinct, record of David's immediate descendants. It underscores the Chronicler's commitment to a precise historical account, vital for establishing the continuity of the Davidic covenant and the future Messianic line.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 3:9 employs several literary devices to convey its message with precision and depth. Enumeration is the foundational device of the entire chapter, with this verse serving as a concluding summary that reinforces the meticulous listing of David's offspring. The phrase "all the sons of David" highlights the Chronicler's commitment to Inclusion and comprehensiveness, assuring the reader of the exhaustive nature of the record. Furthermore, there is a clear Juxtaposition by explicitly separating "the sons of David" (from principal wives) from "the sons of the concubines," subtly highlighting the differing social statuses within David's extensive family. The unique and deliberate naming of "Tamar their sister" among a list predominantly composed of sons is a powerful instance of Emphasis through Exception. Her singular mention draws the reader's attention to her story, acting as a poignant Allusion to the tragic events of 2 Samuel 13 and underscoring the deep human brokenness and the lasting consequences of sin that permeated even the royal household.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple genealogical verse carries profound theological weight, revealing much about God's character and His redemptive plan. It demonstrates God's meticulous care in preserving the lineage of David, through whom the promised Messiah would come, underscoring the divine faithfulness to the Davidic Covenant despite the complexities and imperfections of human families. The inclusion of concubines' sons and, most notably, Tamar, reveals the Bible's unflinching honesty about the realities of sin, polygamy, and tragedy even within the most sacred lines of descent. It reminds us that God's sovereign plan unfolds not through perfect people, but through flawed individuals and messy circumstances, yet His purposes remain steadfast. This verse thus serves as a powerful testament to God's unwavering commitment to His promises, working through the entirety of human history, with all its blemishes, to bring about His ultimate redemption.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 3:9, though part of a genealogy, offers rich lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's grand narrative of redemption is deeply embedded in the real, often messy, stories of human families. David's lineage, despite its royal status, was marked by polygamy, sibling rivalry, and profound tragedy, as exemplified by Tamar's story. Yet, God faithfully preserved this line, demonstrating that His purposes are not thwarted by human sin or imperfection. For us, this means our own family histories, with all their joys, sorrows, triumphs, and failures, are part of a larger divine tapestry. We are called to acknowledge the full truth of our past, embracing both the blessings and the brokenness, trusting that God continues to work in and through our lives. This verse encourages us to find hope not in the perfection of our lineage or circumstances, but in the unwavering faithfulness of God, who can use even the most challenging aspects of our stories for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. It assures us that our imperfections do not disqualify us from God's plan, but rather highlight His grace and power to redeem.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are daughters rarely named in biblical genealogies, and why is Tamar an exception here?
Answer: In ancient patriarchal societies, genealogies primarily traced the male line for purposes of inheritance, tribal affiliation, and royal succession. Daughters were typically not listed unless they played a unique or pivotal role in the narrative, often connected to a significant event or the continuation of a lineage through unusual circumstances (e.g., the daughters of Zelophehad in Numbers 27:1-11). Tamar is a notable exception in 1 Chronicles 3:9 because her story, recounted in 2 Samuel 13, was a profoundly tragic and scandalous event that had significant repercussions for David's family and the Davidic dynasty. Her explicit inclusion underscores the Chronicler's commitment to providing a full and unvarnished account of David's household, highlighting the brokenness and sin that existed even within the royal family. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of sin and the complexities of God's chosen lineage, even as God's faithfulness endures.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 3:9 is a seemingly dry genealogical entry, it plays a crucial role in the overarching biblical narrative that culminates in Christ. By meticulously detailing the lineage of David, including all his recognized offspring, the Chronicler reinforces the divine promise of an enduring dynasty from which the Messiah would come (2 Samuel 7:12-16). The inclusion of "sons of concubines" and the tragic figure of Tamar highlights that God's redemptive plan unfolds not through a perfect, untainted lineage, but through a real, often messy, human family marked by sin, polygamy, and suffering. This foreshadows the profound truth that Christ, the ultimate Son of David (Matthew 1:1), would enter into the full reality of human brokenness. He took on flesh in a lineage that included both saints and sinners, kings and concubines, and even those touched by scandal, as seen in His own genealogy in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38. Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, perfectly fulfills the Davidic covenant, not by avoiding human imperfection, but by entering into it and ultimately conquering sin and death, bringing true and lasting redemption to all who believe, regardless of their own imperfect family histories or pasts (Romans 5:8).