1 Chronicles 7:18

KJV

And his sister Hammoleketh bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah.

KJV (with Strong's)

And his sister {H269} Hammoleketh {H4447} bare {H3205} Ishod {H379}, and Abiezer {H44}, and Mahalah {H4244}.

Complete Jewish Bible

His sister Hammolekhet [the governor] bore Ish-Hod, Avi'ezer and Machlah.

Berean Standard Bible

These were the sons of Gilead son of Machir, the son of Manasseh. His sister Hammolecheth gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

American Standard Version

And his sister Hammolecheth bare Ishhod, and Abiezer, and Mahlah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 7:18 is a concise yet profoundly significant verse embedded within the extensive genealogical records of the tribe of Manasseh. It specifically highlights Hammoleketh, a sister within this lineage, stating, "And his sister Hammoleketh bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah." This brief entry is remarkable for its explicit mention of a woman and her offspring in a section predominantly focused on male lines, underscoring the Chronicler's meticulous preservation of tribal identity, the divine recognition of all individuals, and the continuous unfolding of God's redemptive plan through successive generations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within 1 Chronicles chapter 7, which meticulously enumerates the genealogies of several Israelite tribes, including Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. The broader book of Chronicles, composed in the post-exilic period, serves a crucial purpose: to re-establish the identity, heritage, and continuity of the Israelite nation for those who had returned from Babylonian exile. Chapter 7, particularly verses 14-19, concentrates on the descendants of Manasseh. The pronoun "his" in 1 Chronicles 7:18 most plausibly refers to Gilead, the son of Machir, a prominent figure whose lineage is detailed in the preceding verses, specifically [1 Chronicles 7:14-17](/1_chronicles/7-14-17 "1 Chronicles 7:14-17 - Descendants of Manasseh"). The deliberate inclusion of Hammoleketh, a sister, within this predominantly male-focused lineage is a significant literary choice by the Chronicler, drawing attention to her unique importance within the family line and the broader tribal record.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The meticulous compilation of detailed genealogies was of paramount importance in post-exilic Israel. Following decades of Babylonian captivity, the returning exiles faced the monumental task of societal reconstruction, re-establishing land claims, affirming tribal identities, and ensuring the purity of priestly and Levitical lines. Genealogies functioned as vital legal and historical documents, validating claims to land inheritance, tribal affiliation, and eligibility for sacred service. In a patriarchal society where lineages were almost exclusively traced through the male line, the explicit mention of a woman like Hammoleketh and her children is exceptional. This singularity strongly suggests that she held a position of unusual prominence, perhaps due to her status, the significance of her descendants, or the necessity of clarifying a specific branch of the family tree that was critical for the tribe's continuity and the accurate preservation of its heritage.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 7:18 contributes to several overarching themes pervasive throughout the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores the **Genealogical Precision** inherent in the biblical record, reflecting God's meticulous care in preserving the lineage of His people and fulfilling His covenant promises. This theme is central to the Chronicler's objective of connecting the post-exilic community to their ancient roots and demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to figures like [Abraham](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1 - The Call of Abraham") and [David](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Secondly, the **Inclusion of Women** like Hammoleketh, though rare in such lists, highlights that God's comprehensive plan acknowledges the vital contributions of all individuals, irrespective of gender, in the unfolding of redemptive history. This subtly challenges the common perception of biblical genealogies as exclusively male-centric. Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **Continuity and Heritage**, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving the tribes of Israel through successive generations, ensuring the unbroken thread of His covenant people until the coming of the Messiah, a truth powerfully echoed in the genealogies of Jesus found in [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hammoleketh (Hebrew, _Môleketh'_):** This name is highly unusual and carries significant meaning. The Hebrew word `Môleketh` (מֹלֶכֶת) is derived from the root `mālak`, meaning "to reign" or "to be king/queen." With the definite article "Ha-" (הַ) prefixed, her name literally translates to "the queen" or "the reigning one." This unique designation in a genealogical list, where names typically describe characteristics or commemorate events, strongly suggests that Hammoleketh was a woman of exceptional status, influence, or perhaps her lineage held particular importance for the tribe of Manasseh. Her prominence is not merely implied but explicitly stated through her very name, setting her apart from many other unnamed women in biblical genealogies.
* **bare (Hebrew, _yâlad'_):** This verb (H3205) is a primitive root meaning "to bear young" or "to beget." In the context of 1 Chronicles 7:18, it emphasizes Hammoleketh's role as a mother and the progenitor of the three individuals named. The act of "bearing" highlights the continuity of the family line and the divine blessing of fruitfulness, which was highly valued in ancient Israelite society. The verb underscores the vital role of women in the perpetuation of the tribal lineage, even within genealogies that primarily focus on male succession.
* **Abiezer (Hebrew, _ʼĂbîyʻezer'_):** Meaning "father of help" or "my father is help." This name is particularly significant because Abiezer was also the name of a prominent clan within the tribe of Manasseh, from which the renowned judge Gideon hailed (cf. [Judges 6:11](/judges/6-11 "Judges 6:11 - Gideon's Call")). The mention of Abiezer here likely serves to connect this specific branch of Manasseh's descendants to a well-known and important historical clan, further solidifying the tribal identity and historical continuity that the Chronicler sought to establish for the post-exilic community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And his sister Hammoleketh":** This opening clause immediately draws attention to a female figure in a context overwhelmingly dominated by male names. The phrase "his sister" connects her directly to the male lineage previously mentioned, most likely Gilead (as detailed in [1 Chronicles 7:14-17](/1_chronicles/7-14-17 "1 Chronicles 7:14-17 - Descendants of Manasseh")), establishing her precise place within the family tree of Manasseh. Her distinctive name, "Hammoleketh," meaning "the queen," signifies her unique status and importance, suggesting she was not merely a passive link in the chain but a figure of considerable standing or influence within her family or tribe.
* **"bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah":** This part of the verse meticulously details Hammoleketh's direct offspring. The verb "bare" (וַתֵּלֶד, _vattēled_) emphasizes her active role as a mother and the progenitor of these three individuals. Ishod, Abiezer, and Mahalah represent the continuation of this specific branch of the Manassite lineage. The inclusion of these names, particularly Abiezer with its clear connection to a significant clan in Israelite history, reinforces the meticulous nature of the genealogy and its overarching purpose in tracing and validating tribal lines for the post-exilic community, ensuring their heritage and claims were accurately preserved.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 7:18, and indeed throughout much of the book of Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is far more than a mere dry list of names; it functions as a profound theological statement. The Chronicler employs genealogy to establish the legitimacy, continuity, and divine preservation of the Israelite people, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving His covenant line despite periods of exile and dispersion. The explicit mention of Hammoleketh and her remarkably distinctive name can also be interpreted as a form of **Emphasis** or **Highlighting**. This deliberate inclusion draws the reader's attention to her unique role and significance, serving to underscore the completeness and meticulousness of the historical record. Her presence implicitly acknowledges the vital, though often unrecorded, contributions of women within the broader narrative of God's people, even within a patriarchal societal framework. The meticulous listing of names and family connections serves to reinforce the overarching historical and theological truth that God remembers and actively works through every individual in His grand redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 7:18, though brief in its textual footprint, offers profound theological insights. It underscores God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign hand in preserving His people through countless generations. The very existence of such precise genealogies testifies to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, ensuring the continuity of the chosen lineage through which His redemptive plan would ultimately unfold. The inclusion of Hammoleketh, a woman with a remarkably significant name ("the queen"), subtly highlights the divine recognition of every individual's contribution, regardless of societal prominence or gender, in the grand tapestry of salvation history. It serves as a powerful reminder that God sees and values those who might be overlooked in human records, weaving their lives into His overarching narrative of grace, preservation, and covenant fidelity.

* [Genesis 5:1-32](/genesis/5-1-32 "Genesis 5:1-32 - The Genealogy from Adam to Noah")
* [Ruth 4:18-22](/ruth/4-18-22 "Ruth 4:18-22 - The Genealogy of David")
* [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world often consumed by the pursuit of fame, recognition, and overt accomplishments, 1 Chronicles 7:18 offers a profound spiritual reminder: God's economy values faithfulness and presence, even in roles that might seem obscure or unremarkable by human standards. The deliberate inclusion of Hammoleketh, a woman whose brief mention belies her apparent significance, teaches us that every individual, regardless of how briefly mentioned or seemingly minor their contribution, is known intimately by God and plays a vital, irreplaceable part in His grand narrative. Her unique name, "the queen," suggests a hidden significance or enduring influence, prompting us to consider the often-unseen contributions of individuals, particularly women, throughout history and within our own communities. This verse encourages us to embrace our own unique place in God's unfolding story, recognizing that our lineage—whether physical or spiritual—connects us to a rich heritage of divine faithfulness. It challenges us to value every member of the body of Christ, understanding that each has a distinct and indispensable role in fulfilling God's purposes, echoing the profound truth that God is sovereign over all generations and faithfully preserves His people through every age.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusion of a woman like Hammoleketh in a male-dominated genealogy challenge or expand my understanding of God's recognition and valuation of individuals?**
* **What does this verse, as part of a meticulous record of lineage, teach me about the importance of my own "heritage"—both physical and spiritual—in God's overarching story?**
* **In what ways might I be overlooking or underappreciating the "unseen" contributions of others in my community or church, similar to how Hammoleketh's significance might be easily missed by a casual reader?**

### FAQ
**Why is Hammoleketh mentioned when most biblical genealogies focus on male lines?**

Answer: The explicit mention of Hammoleketh in 1 Chronicles 7:18 is indeed noteworthy and exceptional. While biblical genealogies primarily trace male lines to establish tribal identity, land inheritance, and ultimately the lineage of the Messiah, the Chronicler occasionally includes women who were significant for specific reasons. In Hammoleketh's case, her name itself, "the queen," strongly suggests she was a woman of unusual prominence, status, or influence within her family or tribe. It is highly probable that her lineage was particularly important for clarifying a specific branch of the Manassite tribe, or perhaps she was a matriarch whose descendants formed a significant sub-clan. Her inclusion highlights the Chronicler's meticulousness in preserving the full tribal record and underscores the divine recognition of individuals who played a vital, though perhaps less obvious, role in the continuity of God's people and the unfolding of His plan.

**What is the broader significance of genealogies in the Bible, especially in a book like 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: Biblical genealogies serve multiple crucial purposes, particularly in a book like 1 Chronicles, which was written for the post-exilic community. They were essential for re-establishing identity, validating claims to land and tribal affiliation, and ensuring the purity of priestly and Levitical lines after the return from Babylonian captivity. These detailed lists connect the returning exiles to their ancient heritage, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises made to figures like [Abraham](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1 - The Call of Abraham") and [David](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Far from being merely dry lists of names, they are profound theological statements affirming God's historical work and His steadfast commitment to His redemptive plan, which culminates in the genealogies of Jesus found in [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"). They illustrate God's sovereign hand in preserving a chosen lineage through which the Messiah would ultimately come.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous genealogical records in 1 Chronicles, including the brief but profoundly significant mention of Hammoleketh and her offspring, ultimately point to the grand narrative of God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen lineage for the advent of His Son. While 1 Chronicles 7:18 details a specific branch of Manasseh, the broader purpose of all biblical genealogies is to demonstrate God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Every name listed, every generation traced, serves as a testament to God's sovereign hand guiding history to its redemptive climax. The very existence of these preserved lines, despite exile, dispersion, and the passage of centuries, foreshadows the ultimate preservation of the line of David, from whom Jesus Christ would be born, as declared in [Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, Son of David"). In Christ, the entire purpose of these genealogies finds its glorious fulfillment, as He is the true heir to all promises, the one in whom all the tribes and nations are united and blessed, as the apostle Paul teaches in [Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Promise to Abraham's Seed"). The continuity of God's people, so carefully documented in Chronicles, culminates in the eternal kingdom established by the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), who fulfills all the hopes and promises embedded within these ancient family trees, bringing salvation to all who believe.

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

Numbers 26:30

These [are] the sons of Gilead: [of] Jeezer, the family of the Jeezerites: of Helek, the family of the Helekites:

Judges 6:24

Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it [is] yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

Judges 6:34

But the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer was gathered after him.

Judges 6:11

¶ And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which [was] in Ophrah, that [pertained] unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide [it] from the Midianites.

Judges 8:2

And he said unto them, What have I done now in comparison of you? [Is] not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer?