1 Chronicles 4:41

KJV

And these written by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and smote their tents, and the habitations that were found there, and destroyed them utterly unto this day, and dwelt in their rooms: because [there was] pasture there for their flocks.

KJV (with Strong's)

And these written {H3789} by name {H8034} came {H935} in the days {H3117} of Hezekiah {H3169} king {H4428} of Judah {H3063}, and smote {H5221} their tents {H168}, and the habitations {H4583} that were found {H4672} there, and destroyed {H2763} them utterly unto this day {H3117}, and dwelt {H3427} in their rooms: because there was pasture {H4829} there for their flocks {H6629}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those whose names are written above came during the time of Hizkiyahu king of Y'hudah; they attacked their tents and the Me'unim who were found there, destroyed them completely, and have lived there in place of them to this day; because there was pasture there for their flocks.

Berean Standard Bible

These who were noted by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah. They attacked the Hamites and Meunites there in their dwellings, devoting them to destruction even to this day. Then they settled in their place, because there was pasture for their flocks.

American Standard Version

And these written by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and smote their tents, and the Meunim that were found there, and destroyed them utterly unto this day, and dwelt in their stead; because there was pasture there for their flocks.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 4:41 recounts a specific historical expedition by a group of Simeonites during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. These individuals, explicitly named in the tribal records, engaged in a military action to seize territory from existing inhabitants, utterly destroying them and taking possession of their dwellings. The primary motivation for this conquest was the discovery of abundant pasture land, essential for sustaining their flocks and expanding their economic base. This concise narrative snippet, embedded within extensive genealogies, highlights the ongoing struggle for resources and land within ancient Israel, centuries after the initial conquest of Canaan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a rare narrative interruption within the lengthy genealogies that commence the book of 1 Chronicles (chapters 1-9). Specifically, it concludes the detailed listing of the descendants and settlements of the tribe of Simeon, which begins in [1 Chronicles 4:24](/1_chronicles/4-24 "1 Chronicles 4:24 - The Sons of Simeon"). The preceding verses, [1 Chronicles 4:38-40](/1_chronicles/4-38 "1 Chronicles 4:38-40 - Simeonite Expansion"), describe Simeonite families who expanded their territory, moving into the valley of Gedor and encountering peaceful inhabitants. Verse 41 then provides a concrete example of such expansion, detailing a specific, violent conquest by a named group of Simeonites. This shift from list to narrative underscores the Chronicler's interest not just in lineage but also in significant historical events that shaped the tribal identities and territories of Israel, providing a glimpse into the dynamic, lived reality behind the genealogical records.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The event described in 1 Chronicles 4:41 occurred "in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah," placing it in the late 8th century BC. This is centuries after the initial Israelite conquest of Canaan under Joshua, indicating that territorial adjustments and conflicts for resources were ongoing realities. The tribe of Simeon had a somewhat precarious position, with its inheritance initially located within the territory of Judah ([Joshua 19:1-9](/joshua/19-1 "Joshua 19:1-9 - The Inheritance of Simeon")), often leading to their assimilation or scattering. The reference to "tents" and "habitations" suggests the inhabitants were either nomadic or semi-nomadic groups, possibly remnants of Amalekites or other peoples who still occupied desirable grazing lands. The act of "utterly destroy[ing] them" (Hebrew: _ḥāram_) reflects the harsh realities of ancient Near Eastern warfare and territorial acquisition, where complete eradication or displacement of a population was a common practice to secure land and eliminate future threats. The economic imperative of "pasture there for their flocks" highlights the vital importance of livestock and grazing land in an agrarian society, serving as a powerful driver for tribal movements and conflicts.

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the Chronicler's work and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **ongoing fulfillment of the land promise** to Israel, even through localized, centuries-later actions, demonstrating God's sovereignty over the land and its distribution. Secondly, it underscores the **importance of tribal identity and continuity**, as the Chronicler meticulously records the actions of specific Simeonite families, reinforcing their place within the broader tapestry of Israel's history. Thirdly, the explicit mention of "pasture for their flocks" emphasizes the **practical and economic realities** that shaped the lives of the Israelite tribes, revealing the constant need for resources and the lengths to which people would go to secure them. Finally, the meticulous record-keeping, signified by "written by name," reflects the Chronicler's deep commitment to **historical accuracy and the preservation of Israel's heritage**, showing how even small, seemingly isolated events contribute to the grand narrative of God's people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Written by name (Hebrew, _kātûb bəšēm'_):** This phrase emphasizes the meticulous record-keeping and historical accuracy that characterizes the Chronicler's work. It signifies that these were not anonymous individuals but specific, identifiable leaders or families whose actions were significant enough to be documented in the tribal registers. It underscores the Chronicler's concern for historical verifiable detail, grounding the narrative in concrete reality.
* **Smote (Hebrew, _nākāh'_):** This verb is a strong and common term in Hebrew for striking, beating, or inflicting a decisive blow, often in a military context. Here, it denotes a violent and effective act of conquest, indicating that the Simeonites engaged in a direct and forceful assault on the existing inhabitants, leading to their defeat.
* **Utterly destroyed (Hebrew, _ḥāram'_):** This term, often translated as "devoted to destruction" or "put under the ban," carries significant theological weight. While _ḥāram_ in its fullest sense refers to the complete annihilation of enemies as an act of holy war, dedicating them to God, here it likely signifies the complete eradication or displacement of the existing population to ensure permanent Simeonite occupation. It emphasizes the totality of the conquest and the removal of any potential future threat from the previous inhabitants.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And these written by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah":** This clause identifies the specific actors as those Simeonite individuals or families previously mentioned and documented in the tribal records. It also precisely dates the event to the reign of King Hezekiah (c. 715-686 BC), anchoring this localized tribal action within the broader historical timeline of the Judahite monarchy.
* **"and smote their tents, and the habitations that were found there":** This describes the violent action taken against the existing inhabitants. The mention of "tents" suggests nomadic or semi-nomadic groups, while "habitations" could refer to more permanent dwellings or settlements. This indicates a comprehensive attack on their living structures, signifying the intent to dispossess them entirely.
* **"and destroyed them utterly unto this day":** This phrase underscores the completeness and lasting impact of the Simeonite conquest. "Destroyed them utterly" (from _ḥāram_) implies a decisive and permanent removal of the previous inhabitants. The phrase "unto this day" is a common biblical idiom that affirms the enduring nature of the outcome, indicating that the Simeonite occupation of this territory persisted up to the time the Chronicler was writing.
* **"and dwelt in their rooms: because [there was] pasture there for their flocks":** This final clause states the immediate outcome of the conquest—the Simeonites took possession of the land and dwellings—and, crucially, provides the explicit motivation for their actions. The discovery of abundant "pasture there for their flocks" reveals the economic necessity and practical drive behind this territorial expansion, highlighting the vital role of grazing land in sustaining their livelihood.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. It functions primarily as a **Historical Report**, delivering a concise, factual account of a specific event. The Chronicler's use of the phrase "written by name" serves as an **Attestation of Authenticity**, lending credibility and authority to the narrative by implying it is drawn from official or reliable records. The inclusion of "unto this day" acts as an **Etiological Marker**, explaining the current reality of Simeonite presence in that region at the time of writing. Furthermore, the explicit statement of motivation ("because there was pasture there for their flocks") provides a clear **Causal Explanation**, grounding the violent action in practical, economic necessity. This directness in stating the motive adds a layer of realism to the historical account, highlighting the pragmatic concerns that often drove ancient tribal movements.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly minor historical detail within the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 4:41 offers profound theological and thematic insights. It reminds us that God's covenant promises, particularly concerning the land, were fulfilled not only through grand, sweeping campaigns but also through localized, ongoing struggles and expansions by individual tribes. The Simeonites' violent acquisition of land for pasture underscores the biblical theme of divine provision and human responsibility in securing resources. While the means employed reflect the harsh realities of the ancient world, the underlying need for sustenance and the drive to secure a livelihood for one's family and community are universal. The Chronicler's inclusion of such a specific, almost mundane, act of conquest within a sacred historical record suggests that God is sovereign over all aspects of human life, from grand national narratives to the practicalities of tribal survival and economic well-being. It illustrates how the divine plan unfolds through the complex interplay of human choices, needs, and actions, even those involving conflict and displacement.

* [Genesis 49:5-7](/genesis/49-5 "Jacob's Prophecy Against Simeon and Levi") - Jacob's prophecy concerning Simeon's scattered inheritance, which this event might partially address or illustrate.
* [Joshua 19:1-9](/joshua/19-1 "The Inheritance of Simeon") - Details Simeon's initial land allocation within Judah's territory, providing context for their later need for expansion.
* [Psalm 23:2](/psalms/23-2 "Psalm 23:2 - The Lord Leads Me to Green Pastures") - Though metaphoric, it speaks to the divine provision of "green pastures," echoing the fundamental need for sustenance that drove the Simeonites.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the direct application of an ancient conquest for pasture land might seem distant, 1 Chronicles 4:41 offers timeless principles for reflection. It reminds us that human endeavor is often driven by fundamental needs—for provision, security, and a place to thrive. For us today, the "pasture for their flocks" can symbolize the resources, opportunities, and stability we seek for ourselves and our families. The verse prompts us to consider how we pursue these necessities: do we rely on divine provision, exercise responsible stewardship, and act with integrity? It also challenges us to grapple with the complex realities of biblical history, acknowledging that God's purposes unfolded through imperfect human actions, sometimes involving violence and displacement. This should lead us to a deeper appreciation for the peace and abundance we often take for granted, and to a commitment to seeking justice and equity in our own pursuit of resources. Ultimately, the passage encourages us to trust in God's overarching sovereignty even when human actions are morally ambiguous, and to find our true "pasture" in His guidance and grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this historical account challenge or affirm my understanding of God's involvement in human history, particularly concerning conflict and land acquisition?**
* **In what ways do I "seek pasture" or provision in my own life, and what ethical principles should guide that pursuit in a contemporary context?**
* **What does the Chronicler's inclusion of such a specific, localized event tell us about the value of every detail in God's historical record and our understanding of His people?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "written by name" individuals?**

Answer: The phrase "written by name" refers to specific individuals or families from the tribe of Simeon whose names were recorded in the tribal genealogies. These were likely the Simeonite leaders or heads of families mentioned in the preceding verses of [1 Chronicles 4:38-40](/1_chronicles/4-38 "1 Chronicles 4:38-40 - Simeonite Leaders and Their Expansion"), who led this particular expedition. The Chronicler emphasizes their documented identity to underscore the historical veracity and significance of their actions.

**Why did Simeon need more pasture land so late in Israel's history?**

Answer: The tribe of Simeon's initial inheritance was relatively small and located within the territory of Judah ([Joshua 19:1-9](/joshua/19-1 "Joshua 19:1-9 - The Inheritance of Simeon")). Over time, they faced challenges with population growth and resource scarcity, and were often scattered or absorbed into Judah. This expedition, occurring centuries after the initial conquest (during Hezekiah's reign), suggests an ongoing need for additional resources. It reflects a practical response to economic pressures, such as a growing population or diminishing local pasture, driving them to seek new, fertile grazing lands for their expanding flocks.

**What does "unto this day" signify?**

Answer: "Unto this day" is a common biblical idiom used to indicate that the effect or outcome of a described event was still observable and permanent at the time the biblical text was written. In the context of 1 Chronicles 4:41, it signifies that the Simeonites continued to occupy the territory they conquered for pasture, confirming the lasting success and permanence of their acquisition and the displacement of the previous inhabitants.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 4:41 describes a physical conquest for literal pasture, its underlying themes of inheritance, provision, and securing a place of rest find their ultimate and spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Simeonites sought physical land for their flocks to thrive, but Christ leads His people to an eternal, spiritual inheritance. He is the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd") who leads His flock not to mere earthly pastures, but to abundant life and true spiritual nourishment ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Gate for the Sheep")). The earthly struggle for land and resources, often marked by conflict, points to humanity's deep-seated need for security and belonging, a need fully met in Christ. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus has secured for believers an [inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance"), a heavenly dwelling not seized by violence but freely given by grace. The ultimate "rest" and "room" that God provides for His people are found in the New Covenant, where believers are citizens of a [heavenly Jerusalem](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22 - The Heavenly Jerusalem") and inherit all spiritual blessings in Christ ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Thus, the earthly pursuit of pasture foreshadows the spiritual provision and eternal peace found in the Lamb of God, who truly satisfies all our needs ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")).

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

Judges 10:12

The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand.

Acts 17:26

And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;

1 Chronicles 4:34

And Meshobab, and Jamlech, and Joshah the son of Amaziah,

1 Chronicles 4:38

These mentioned by [their] names [were] princes in their families: and the house of their fathers increased greatly.

2 Kings 18:8

He smote the Philistines, [even] unto Gaza, and the borders thereof, from the tower of the watchmen to the fenced city.

2 Kings 18:12

Because they obeyed not the voice of the LORD their God, but transgressed his covenant, [and] all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded, and would not hear [them], nor do [them].

Isaiah 14:28

In the year that king Ahaz died was this burden.