1 Chronicles 4:31

1 Chronicles 4:31 continues the detailed enumeration of the cities inhabited by the tribe of Simeon, a critical aspect of the biblical record of Israel's tribal allocations. This verse lists four specific locations: Bethmarcaboth, Hazarsusim, Bethbirei, and Shaaraim. The concluding phrase, "These [were] their cities unto the reign of David," provides a crucial historical marker, indicating the period during which the Simeonites maintained possession of these particular settlements.

Context

This verse is found within the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles, specifically focusing on the descendants of Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:24-43). The Chronicler meticulously records tribal lineages and their territories, which was vital for establishing land rights, tribal identity, and fulfilling God's promises regarding the inheritance of the land of Canaan. The preceding verses (1 Chronicles 4:28-30) also list Simeonite cities, making verse 31 a continuation of this geographical inventory. The mention of "the reign of David" (circa 1010-970 BC) serves as a historical endpoint for Simeonite tenure of these specific cities, suggesting a shift in their status or ownership thereafter, perhaps as Judah's influence grew or as the kingdom unified under David.

Key Themes

• Genealogical Precision and Land Inheritance: The passage underscores the biblical emphasis on precise historical and geographical records, affirming the fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding land for the tribes of Israel. The detailed list of cities confirms the Simeonites' allotted territory within Canaan, originally outlined in Joshua 19:1-9.
• Historical Transition: The phrase "unto the reign of David" is highly significant. It implies a change or re-evaluation of these cities' status during or after David's strong central rule. While Simeon retained some territory, these specific cities might have been integrated more directly into the broader kingdom administration or even absorbed into Judah's jurisdiction as the kingdom consolidated. This contrasts with later Simeonite expansion mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:39-43, which occurred much later during King Hezekiah's time.

Linguistic Insights

The names of the cities themselves offer interesting, though not definitive, insights:

• Bethmarcaboth (בית המרכבות): Meaning "house of chariots," suggesting a place related to military transport or stables.
• Hazarsusim (חצר סוסים): Meaning "village of horses" or "horse stalls," also pointing to equestrian activities or military significance.

These names hint at the strategic or economic importance of these locations, perhaps serving as garrisons or supply points. The Hebrew phrase "unto the reign of David" (‘ad yamê Dawid) clearly denotes a temporal boundary, highlighting the dynamic nature of tribal landholdings within ancient Israel.

Practical Application

While seemingly a dry list of names, 1 Chronicles 4:31, like much of the genealogies, reminds us of God's meticulous attention to detail and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises over generations. It teaches us:

• The Value of History: God values historical records, showing how His plan unfolds through specific people, places, and times.
• Divine Sovereignty in Change: Even as territories shifted "unto the reign of David," it demonstrates God's overarching sovereignty over the affairs of nations and the destinies of His people, guiding them through periods of stability and transition.
• Our Inheritance: Just as the tribes received their physical inheritance, believers today are reminded of their spiritual inheritance in Christ, which is secure and eternal, transcending earthly possessions.