1 Chronicles 6:28

KJV

And the sons of Samuel; the firstborn Vashni, and Abiah.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Samuel {H8050}; the firstborn {H1060} Vashni {H2059}, and Abiah {H29}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Sh'mu'el: Vashni the firstborn, then Aviyah.

Berean Standard Bible

The sons of Samuel: Joel his firstborn and Abijah his second son.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Samuel: the first-born, Joel, and the second Abijah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:28, a concise entry within the extensive Levitical genealogies, names "Vashni" and Abiah as the sons of the prophet Samuel. While seemingly straightforward, this verse presents a notable textual challenge, as parallel accounts in 1 Samuel identify Samuel's firstborn as Joel, not Vashni. This discrepancy highlights the meticulous nature of ancient record-keeping, the occasional complexities of textual transmission, and ultimately, God's sovereign preservation of His overarching redemptive narrative, assuring the reliability of His Word despite minor human variations in the biblical record.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a lengthy and detailed genealogical list in [1 Chronicles 6](/1_chronicles/6 "1 Chronicles 6 - Levitical Genealogies"), which meticulously traces the lineage of the Levites, particularly focusing on the priestly and musical families. The chapter begins by enumerating the sons of Levi, then narrows its focus to the Kohathite clan, to which Samuel, though primarily known as a prophet and judge, belonged. His inclusion here underscores his tribal identity and the importance of his family within the broader Levitical structure established for temple service. The immediate surrounding verses continue to list the descendants of various Levitical families, emphasizing the continuity of their roles in Israel's worship and national life, leading up to the establishment of the temple service under David, a key focus of the Chronicler. The Chronicler's post-exilic audience would have found these genealogies crucial for re-establishing identity, land claims, and temple roles.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Genealogies were of paramount importance in ancient Israelite society, serving as vital records for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance rights, and eligibility for priestly or Levitical service. They also demonstrated the fulfillment of divine promises concerning lineage, particularly the covenant promises to Abraham and David. The meticulous nature of these lists reflects a culture deeply rooted in its past and its covenant relationship with God, where one's place in the community and before God was often tied to their ancestry. Samuel himself lived during a pivotal transitional period in Israel's history, moving from the decentralized era of judges to the centralized monarchy. As a prophet, judge, and king-maker, his family's inclusion in these records solidifies his historical significance and connection to the divinely ordained structure of Israel, even as his own sons' failings became a catalyst for the people's demand for a king, as recounted in [1 Samuel 8](/1_samuel/8 "1 Samuel 8 - Israel Demands a King").
* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of Samuel's sons in this genealogy contributes to several key themes pervasive in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it reinforces the **continuity of God's covenant faithfulness** to His people, preserving their lineage through generations, even through periods of national upheaval and exile. This meticulous record-keeping assures the reader that God's promises endure. Secondly, it highlights the **importance of lineage and heritage** for Israel's identity and function, particularly for those called to sacred service. The detailed records underscore the belief that God works through specific individuals and families to accomplish His purposes, as seen in the broader narrative of Israel's history from [Abraham's call](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abraham") to the establishment of the Davidic kingdom and the temple. Finally, the very presence of such detailed lists, even with their textual challenges, points to the **divine oversight of history**, assuring the reader that God's plan unfolds precisely as He intends, despite human imperfections or complexities in record-keeping, ultimately leading to the promised Messiah.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên'_):** H1121, from בָּנָה; a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc.). This word emphasizes the generational continuity and the role of descendants in preserving the family line and its heritage. In a genealogical context, "sons" are the direct link in the chain of lineage, ensuring the perpetuation of the family name and its associated rights and responsibilities.
* **firstborn (Hebrew, _bᵉkôwr'_):** H1060, from בָּכַר; firstborn; hence, chief; eldest (son), firstborn(-ling). This term denotes the eldest son, who traditionally held a position of preeminence, receiving a double portion of the inheritance and often assuming leadership responsibilities. The mention of "firstborn" here is crucial because it highlights the textual anomaly concerning "Vashni," as the true firstborn, Joel, is omitted, leading to the scribal issue.
* **Vashni (Hebrew, _Vashnîy'_):** H2059, probably from יִשְׁמְרַי; weak; Vashni, an Israelite. This word presents a significant textual anomaly. While 1 Chronicles 6:28 lists "Vashni" as Samuel's firstborn, the parallel and more detailed account in [1 Samuel 8:2](/1_samuel/8-2 "1 Samuel 8:2 - Samuel's Sons, Joel and Abiah") clearly states that Samuel's firstborn son was Joel, and his second was Abiah. Scholars widely agree that "Vashni" is not a proper name but likely a scribal error resulting from a misreading of the Hebrew phrase "וְשֵׁנִי" (_v'sheni_), meaning "and the second." If this is the case, the original intent of the Chronicler's text would have been something like "And the sons of Samuel; the firstborn [Joel, omitted], and the second, Abiah." The omission of Joel's name, combined with the misinterpretation of "and the second" as a proper noun, created the name "Vashni." This highlights the human element in the transmission of ancient manuscripts, yet without compromising the overall theological integrity of the biblical message.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Samuel;":** This introductory phrase immediately establishes the subject of the verse, linking it directly to the renowned prophet, judge, and king-maker, Samuel. His inclusion in this Levitical genealogy underscores his tribal affiliation as a Kohathite Levite, despite his more prominent roles in national leadership. This connection grounds him firmly within the established sacred structures of Israel, emphasizing his family's place within the divinely ordered community.
* **"the firstborn Vashni,":** This is the problematic clause. As discussed in the key word analysis, "Vashni" is almost certainly a textual corruption. The intended firstborn son of Samuel, according to [1 Samuel 8:2](/1_samuel/8-2 "1 Samuel 8:2 - Samuel's Sons, Joel and Abiah"), was Joel. The phrase likely originated from a scribal misreading of "and the second" (וְשֵׁנִי, _v'sheni_), with Joel's name having been omitted earlier in the list. This clause, therefore, points to a common type of textual variant found in ancient manuscripts, where similar-sounding words or phrases could be confused, yet it does not obscure the identity of Samuel's actual sons when compared with parallel texts.
* **"and Abiah.":** This part of the verse aligns perfectly with the parallel account in [1 Samuel 8:2](/1_samuel/8-2 "1 Samuel 8:2 - Samuel's Sons, Joel and Abiah"), which identifies Abiah as Samuel's second son. The consistency here provides a crucial anchor for understanding the textual issue with "Vashni," confirming that Abiah was indeed one of Samuel's known sons. Both Joel and Abiah are noted in [1 Samuel 8:3](/1_samuel/8-3 "1 Samuel 8:3 - Samuel's Sons Corrupt Judges") for their corruption, turning aside from their father's righteous ways, which ultimately led to Israel's demand for a king.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 6:28, and indeed in much of the book of 1 Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This meticulous listing of family lines serves several crucial functions: it establishes legitimacy, particularly for those in priestly or royal service, by tracing their lineage back to foundational figures or divinely appointed tribes; it emphasizes continuity, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving a people and a heritage across generations, despite various historical challenges; and it provides a framework for understanding the unfolding of God's covenant promises. In this specific verse, the genealogical entry for Samuel's sons also inadvertently highlights **Textual Variation**, a phenomenon where minor discrepancies exist between parallel biblical accounts, often due to scribal transmission. While not a deliberate literary device by the author, the presence of "Vashni" prompts the reader to engage in careful textual analysis and comparison, reinforcing the importance of diligent study of the Scriptures and the value of comparing parallel accounts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of Samuel's sons in this detailed genealogy, even with its textual complexities, speaks volumes about God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign hand in preserving the lineage of His covenant people. It underscores that every life, every family, and every generation plays a part in the unfolding of God's grand narrative. The very existence of such a specific record, coupled with the known textual challenge, reminds us that divine inspiration ensures the truthfulness and reliability of Scripture in its entirety, even while acknowledging the human element in its transmission. God's plan for His people, and ultimately for salvation, is meticulously woven through the fabric of human history, ensuring that the promised lineage would endure. This faithfulness extends even to the recording of individuals who, like Samuel's sons Joel and Abiah, did not live up to their righteous heritage, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His covenant, not merely based on human merit but on His divine purpose to bring about His redemptive plan.

* [Genesis 5:1-32](/genesis/5 "Genesis 5 - The Generations of Adam")
* [Numbers 3:14-39](/numbers/3-14-39 "Numbers 3:14-39 - Census and Duties of the Levites")
* [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly dry genealogical entries of 1 Chronicles, including the specific mention of Samuel's sons, offer profound insights for contemporary believers. They remind us that God is a God of order, history, and meticulous detail. Just as He preserved the intricate family lines of Israel for His purposes, so too does He oversee the trajectory of our lives and the broader sweep of human history. The textual challenge of "Vashni" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diligent biblical study, encouraging us not to shy away from complexities but to engage them with humility and a desire for deeper understanding, trusting in the overall integrity and divine inspiration of God's Word. Furthermore, the inclusion of Samuel's sons, despite their later moral failings (as noted in 1 Samuel), highlights God's faithfulness in working through imperfect vessels and generations. Our own imperfections do not disqualify us from being part of God's ongoing story, but rather underscore His grace and perseverance in bringing His plans to fruition through flawed humanity. This encourages us to embrace our own heritage, both spiritual and familial, and to consider how our lives contribute to the larger narrative of God's redemptive work in the world, knowing that our personal stories are interwoven into His grand design.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 6, challenge or affirm your understanding of God's attention to detail in history and in your own life?**
* **What lessons can be drawn from the textual discrepancy concerning "Vashni" regarding our approach to biblical interpretation and the nature of divine inspiration?**
* **Considering that Samuel's sons, despite their lineage, did not follow in their father's righteous footsteps, what does this teach us about the relationship between heritage, personal responsibility, and God's grace?**
* **How might understanding the historical and cultural significance of genealogies deepen your appreciation for your own family history and the spiritual heritage you have received?**

### FAQ
**Why does 1 Chronicles 6:28 name "Vashni" as Samuel's firstborn when 1 Samuel 8:2 names "Joel" and "Abiah" as his sons?**

Answer: This is a well-known textual discrepancy in the Hebrew Bible, and biblical scholars widely agree that "Vashni" in [1 Chronicles 6:28](/1_chronicles/6-28 "1 Chronicles 6:28 - Samuel's Sons") is likely a scribal error or corruption of the original text. The parallel account in [1 Samuel 8:2](/1_samuel/8-2 "1 Samuel 8:2 - Samuel's Sons, Joel and Abiah") clearly states that Samuel's firstborn son was Joel, and his second was Abiah. The most common explanation for "Vashni" is that it arose from a misreading of the Hebrew phrase "וְשֵׁנִי" (_v'sheni_), meaning "and the second." It's believed that Joel's name was either accidentally omitted earlier in the list, and then "and the second" was mistakenly copied as a proper name, "Vashni." This highlights the occasional human element in the transmission of ancient manuscripts, where copyists could make minor errors, but such instances do not compromise the overall integrity or theological message of Scripture.

**Does this textual discrepancy undermine the reliability or inerrancy of the Bible?**

Answer: No, this textual discrepancy does not undermine the reliability or inerrancy of the Bible. The vast majority of biblical scholars, including those who affirm inerrancy, understand such minor variations as part of the process of ancient manuscript transmission, not as errors in the original, divinely inspired texts. The discrepancy concerning "Vashni" is a well-understood scribal issue, easily resolved by comparing it with the clearer parallel account in [1 Samuel 8:2](/1_samuel/8-2 "1 Samuel 8:2 - Samuel's Sons, Joel and Abiah"). Such minor textual variants, which are common in all ancient literature, are typically inconsequential to the major theological doctrines or historical narratives of Scripture. Instead, they often serve to confirm the meticulous work of textual critics and the overall faithfulness of the transmission process, assuring us that the core message and historical truth of the Bible have been remarkably preserved through the centuries, demonstrating God's providential care over His Word.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 6:28 appears to be a simple genealogical entry with a textual challenge, it subtly points to the broader biblical narrative culminating in Christ. The meticulous preservation of lineages throughout the Old Testament, including those of the Levites like Samuel, underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises and His sovereign control over human history. These genealogies, though sometimes complex or seemingly dry, serve as the historical bedrock upon which the ultimate lineage of the Messiah is built. The promise of a Seed who would crush the serpent's head ([Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium")) and a descendant of Abraham through whom all nations would be blessed ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant")) finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The very existence of these detailed records, even with minor scribal variations, testifies to God's faithfulness in preserving the historical thread that leads directly to the incarnation. Jesus, as the son of David ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus")), the son of Abraham ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus")), and ultimately the son of God, is the culmination of all these genealogical promises. He is the true firstborn, not just of a human lineage, but of all creation ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). Thus, even a seemingly minor verse about Samuel's sons contributes to the grand tapestry of God's redemptive plan, ensuring that the promised Messiah would arrive precisely according to the divine timetable and through the divinely appointed lineage, bringing salvation to all who believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love Demonstrated")) and establishing a new spiritual lineage for all who are "born again" into His family ([John 3:3](/john/3-3 "John 3:3 - Born Again")).

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

1 Chronicles 6:33

And these [are] they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel,

1 Samuel 8:2

Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: [they were] judges in Beersheba.