1 Chronicles 4:5

KJV

And Ashur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ashur {H806} the father {H1} of Tekoa {H8620} had two {H8147} wives {H802}, Helah {H2458} and Naarah {H5292}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Ashur the father of T'koa had two wives, Hel'ah and Na'arah.

Berean Standard Bible

Ashhur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

American Standard Version

And Ashhur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 4:5 introduces Ashur, identified as "the father of Tekoa," and names his two wives, Helah and Naarah. This verse is situated within the extensive genealogical records that open the Book of 1 Chronicles, meticulously tracing the lineages of the tribes of Israel, particularly Judah, to establish identity, inheritance, and continuity for the post-exilic community, all while laying a foundational historical framework for the subsequent narrative of the Davidic monarchy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the lengthy genealogical sections that comprise the first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles. Specifically, it falls within the detailed lineage of the tribe of Judah, which spans from [chapter 2](/1_chronicles/2 "1 Chronicles 2 - The Descendants of Judah") through [chapter 4](/1_chronicles/4 "1 Chronicles 4 - Further Descendants of Judah"). These genealogies serve as a vital bridge, connecting the post-exilic community, to whom the book was primarily addressed, with their rich heritage and the unbroken covenant promises of God. They are not merely lists of names but foundational records establishing tribal identity, land rights, and the legitimacy of leadership, particularly the Davidic line, before the historical narrative of the kings begins in [chapter 10](/1_chronicles/10 "1 Chronicles 10 - The Death of Saul"). The mention of Ashur and his wives here is part of this meticulous record-keeping, setting the stage for the enumeration of their descendants in the verses that follow.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of 1 Chronicles was likely compiled during the post-exilic period, when the returned exiles were striving to re-establish their identity and connection to their ancestral land and covenant God. In this era, genealogical records were paramount for social, legal, and religious purposes, affirming who belonged to the covenant community and their place within it. Tekoa, the town associated with Ashur, was a significant settlement in the southern kingdom of Judah, situated in the wilderness of Judah, known for its strategic location and later as the hometown of the prophet [Amos](/amos/1-1 "Amos 1:1 - The Words of Amos from Tekoa"). The mention of Ashur having two wives, Helah and Naarah, reflects the reality of polygamy, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures. While widespread, biblical narratives often implicitly or explicitly highlight the complexities and challenges inherent in such family structures, contrasting with God's original design for marriage.
* **Key Themes:** The primary purpose of this verse, within its broader context, is to contribute to the theme of **Genealogical Foundation and Continuity**. These meticulous records were crucial for the post-exilic community to understand their historical roots and to affirm God's faithfulness in preserving His people through generations, ensuring the continuity of the covenant line that would eventually lead to the Messiah (as seen in later genealogies like [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")). Another theme is the **Founding and Development of Communities**. Ashur's designation as "father of Tekoa" underscores the importance of key individuals in establishing and leading significant settlements, illustrating the transition of Israelite society from nomadic tribes to settled communities with defined territories and leaders. Lastly, the verse subtly touches upon **Social Norms Versus Divine Ideal**. The explicit mention of two wives provides a glimpse into the societal practices of the time. While polygamy was a cultural reality, it stands in contrast to God's original design for marriage as a monogamous union between one man and one woman, as established in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "God's Design for Marriage"). The Chronicler records the reality without necessarily endorsing it, allowing the reader to observe the historical context.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ashur (Hebrew, _'Ashshur'_):** This is a personal name, here referring to an individual within the lineage of Judah. It is crucial not to confuse this personal name with the nation of Assyria, which is also transliterated as "Ashur" in some contexts. In this genealogical record, Ashur is presented as a patriarch, specifically linked to the founding or prominence of the town of Tekoa. His inclusion underscores the Chronicler's meticulous attention to the significant figures in Israel's tribal history.
* **Tekoa (Hebrew, _Teqoa'_):** This is a geographical place name, referring to a town located in the hill country of Judah, south of Bethlehem. The name itself possibly derives from a root meaning "to pitch a tent" or "to fix a dwelling," suggesting a settled place. Its mention here highlights Ashur's connection to a specific, identifiable community, indicating his role as a founder or a prominent figure associated with its establishment or development. Tekoa later gained fame as the hometown of the prophet Amos.
* **Wives (Hebrew, _nashim'_):** The plural form of the noun "wife" (אִשָּׁה, _'ishshah'_) explicitly indicates that Ashur had more than one spouse. The naming of both Helah and Naarah signals the Chronicler's precision in detailing family structures, which was essential for tracking lineage, inheritance, and tribal identity. While polygamy was practiced in ancient Israel, its presence here is a factual record within a genealogy, not a theological endorsement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ashur the father of Tekoa":** This clause identifies the central figure of the verse, Ashur, and immediately establishes his significant connection to a specific geographical location, Tekoa. The phrase "father of Tekoa" is a common Hebrew idiom in genealogical contexts, indicating that Ashur was either the founder of the town, its primary patriarch, or a leading figure from whom its inhabitants descended. This highlights his importance in the development of the Judahite settlement and its tribal identity, placing him within the broader framework of Israel's historical and geographical roots.
* **"had two wives, Helah and Naarah":** This second clause provides a specific detail about Ashur's family structure, noting that he was a polygamist with two named wives. The explicit naming of Helah and Naarah is not merely incidental; it sets the stage for the subsequent verses (1 Chronicles 4:6-7), which meticulously list the children born to each woman. This detail underscores the Chronicler's thoroughness in tracing all branches of the family tree, which was crucial for establishing tribal and familial claims, even within complex marital arrangements common to the ancient Near East.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 4:5, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of the book, is **Genealogy**. This meticulous listing of names and familial relationships serves several crucial purposes for the Chronicler's audience. Firstly, it establishes the **Continuity** of God's covenant people, linking the post-exilic community directly to their patriarchal ancestors and the promises made to them. Secondly, it provides **Legitimacy** for tribal claims, land ownership, and the Davidic monarchy, reinforcing the divine right of the Davidic line. Thirdly, the very act of recording these names, even seemingly obscure ones, demonstrates a profound belief in God's **Faithfulness** to preserve His people across generations, even through periods of exile and hardship. The specific mention of "father of Tekoa" also employs **Nomenclature** as a device, where names are not just labels but carry descriptive or associative meaning, linking individuals to places and roles, thereby enriching the historical and geographical understanding of the community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 4:5, while seemingly a simple record, contributes significantly to the overarching theological themes of the Chronicler. It underscores God's meticulous attention to the details of His people's history and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. Even in the enumeration of family lines, the divine hand is seen preserving the lineage through which His redemptive plan would unfold. The genealogies serve as a testament to the fact that God remembers His people, their heritage, and their place within His grand narrative, providing a solid foundation of identity and hope for the returned exiles. This careful record-keeping assures them that their past is divinely ordained and their future is secure in God's continuing faithfulness.

* [Genesis 5:1-32](/genesis/5-1 "Genesis 5 - The Book of the Generations of Adam")
* [Ruth 4:18-22](/ruth/4-18 "Ruth 4:18-22 - The Genealogy of David")
* [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly dry genealogies of 1 Chronicles, including the detail in 4:5, offer profound insights for contemporary believers. They remind us that our identity is deeply rooted in a divine narrative, connecting us to a long line of faith and God's unwavering faithfulness across generations. Just as the post-exilic community found reassurance and a renewed sense of belonging by tracing their lineage, we too can find strength in understanding our spiritual heritage as part of God's covenant people. This verse also subtly highlights the difference between cultural norms and divine ideals; while polygamy was a societal reality, God's original design for marriage, as presented throughout Scripture, remains a monogamous union. This prompts us to critically examine our own cultural practices in light of biblical truth, discerning God's perfect will for our lives and relationships. Ultimately, 1 Chronicles 4:5 encourages us to recognize that even the seemingly mundane details of our lives are known to God and play a part in His larger, unfolding story of redemption.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding my spiritual heritage (the lineage of faith) impact my identity as a believer today?**
* **What seemingly "mundane" details in my own life might God be meticulously recording or using for His greater purposes?**
* **How can I honor the foundational truths of God's Word while navigating contemporary societal norms that may differ from biblical ideals?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies so important in the Bible, especially in 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies in the Bible serve several crucial purposes. In 1 Chronicles, they were particularly vital for the post-exilic community to re-establish their identity, tribal affiliations, and inheritance rights after returning from Babylon. They demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people through generations, ensuring the continuity of the promises made to Abraham and David. These meticulous records also authenticate the legitimacy of leaders and priests, and most significantly, they meticulously trace the lineage leading to the Messiah, providing a historical foundation for God's redemptive plan.

**What is the significance of Ashur being called "the father of Tekoa"?**

Answer: In biblical contexts, the phrase "father of" (Hebrew: _'av'_) can mean more than just biological paternity. It often signifies the founder, patriarch, or leading figure of a city, clan, or profession. Therefore, Ashur being called "the father of Tekoa" indicates his prominent role in the establishment, development, or leadership of the town of Tekoa. This highlights the importance of key individuals in shaping the geographical and social landscape of ancient Israel, and Tekoa itself later gained prominence as the home of the prophet [Amos](/amos/1-1 "Amos 1:1 - The Words of Amos from Tekoa").

**Does the Bible's mention of polygamy, as seen with Ashur, endorse the practice?**

Answer: No, the Bible's mention of polygamy, such as Ashur having two wives, Helah and Naarah, is a historical record of cultural practices prevalent in the ancient Near East, not an endorsement of the practice. While polygamy was present in ancient Israel, God's original design for marriage, established in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "God's Design for Marriage"), is a monogamous union between one man and one woman. Throughout Scripture, narratives involving polygamy often illustrate the relational complexities, strife, and negative consequences that arise from such arrangements, implicitly or explicitly contrasting with God's ideal.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly dry genealogical record of 1 Chronicles 4:5, like all biblical genealogies, ultimately points to the meticulous care with which God preserved the lineage leading to His Son, Jesus Christ. The Chronicler’s exhaustive cataloging of names, particularly within the tribe of Judah, underscores God’s unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, ensuring that the seed of Abraham and the house of David would endure until the promised Messiah arrived. Ashur, as a figure within this vast family tree, contributes to the grand narrative that culminates in the incarnation of Christ. Jesus is the ultimate "father" of a new, spiritual community, fulfilling the promise of a vast offspring not by physical descent alone, but by faith (as seen in [Galatians 3:7](/galatians/3-7 "Galatians 3:7 - Children of Abraham by Faith")). He is the true heir of the Davidic covenant, establishing an eternal kingdom (as prophesied in [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")) and providing the ultimate "fixed abode" or rest for His people, echoing the possible meaning of "Tekoa." Through Christ, the scattered and exiled are brought into one family, fulfilling the deepest longings for identity and belonging found in these ancient records (as described in [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). The genealogies, therefore, are not merely lists of the dead, but a vibrant testimony to the living God's sovereign plan to bring salvation through the one who is the "Son of David, the Son of Abraham" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")).

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.