1 Chronicles 7:40

All these [were] the children of Asher, heads of [their] father's house, choice [and] mighty men of valour, chief of the princes. And the number throughout the genealogy of them that were apt to the war [and] to battle [was] twenty and six thousand men.

All these were the children {H1121} of Asher {H836}, heads {H7218} of their father's {H1} house {H1004}, choice {H1305} and mighty men {H1368} of valour {H2428}, chief {H7218} of the princes {H5387}. And the number {H4557} throughout the genealogy {H3187} of them that were apt to the war {H6635} and to battle {H4421} was twenty {H6242} and six {H8337} thousand {H505} men {H582}.

All these were descendants of Asher, leaders of their fathers'clans, elite, strong, brave men, the most important of the princes. Those fit for battle service, listed in genealogies, numbered 26,000 men.

All these were the descendants of Asher—heads of their families, choice and mighty men of valor, and chiefs among the leaders. The number of men fit for battle, recorded in their genealogies, was 26,000.

All these were the children of Asher, heads of the fathers’ houses, choice and mighty men of valor, chief of the princes. And the number of them reckoned by genealogy for service in war was twenty and six thousand men.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 7:40 provides a detailed summation of the tribe of Asher's military strength and leadership, concluding a significant genealogical section dedicated to this tribe within the book of Chronicles.

Context of 1 Chronicles 7:40

The book of 1 Chronicles, particularly chapters 1-9, is largely composed of extensive genealogies. These lists served a crucial purpose for the post-exilic community in Israel: re-establishing their identity, land claims, priestly lineage, and tribal affiliations after the return from Babylonian captivity. Verse 40 specifically concludes the record for the descendants of Asher, highlighting their leading men and their considerable military census. This emphasis on military readiness and leadership was vital for the nation's security and organization in their land.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Tribal Identity and Heritage: The detailed genealogies underscore the importance of knowing one's lineage and tribal belonging, which was foundational to Israelite society and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.
  • Military Prowess and Readiness: The description of Asher's men as "choice and mighty men of valour" and "apt to the war and to battle" emphasizes their significant military capacity. This theme of readiness for defense and warfare is common in biblical accounts of the tribes, as seen in the census for military service in Numbers. The total of twenty-six thousand men indicates a substantial fighting force.
  • Leadership and Organization: The mention of "heads of their father's house" and "chief of the princes" highlights the structured leadership within the tribe of Asher. This orderly arrangement was essential for tribal governance, land distribution, and military mobilization.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborê ḥayil) is a significant term in the Old Testament. It denotes not only physical strength but also character, courage, wealth, and influence. These were individuals recognized for their capability and standing within the community. The phrase "apt to the war" (Hebrew: yotz'ei tzava) literally means "those who go out to war" or are fit for military service, indicating their preparedness and active role in defense.

Significance and Application

While a genealogical list might seem dry, 1 Chronicles 7:40 offers profound insights. It reminds us of God's meticulous attention to detail and His preservation of His people through generations. For us today, it speaks to the importance of:

  • Knowing Our Spiritual Heritage: Just as the Israelites valued their physical lineage, believers are called to understand their spiritual heritage as children of God and co-heirs with Christ, a concept explored in Romans 8:17.
  • Spiritual Readiness: The emphasis on being "apt to the war" can be spiritually applied to the Christian life, where believers are called to be vigilant and prepared for spiritual battles, donning the full armor of God.
  • Valuing Leadership and Order: The structured leadership within Asher's tribe underscores the importance of godly leadership and order within families, churches, and communities for effective functioning and spiritual health.
This verse, therefore, is not merely a historical record but a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving and organizing His people, equipping them for their purpose.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 24:1

    ¶ And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.

  • 2 Samuel 24:9

    And Joab gave up the sum of the number of the people unto the king: and there were in Israel eight hundred thousand valiant men that drew the sword; and the men of Judah [were] five hundred thousand men.

  • 1 Chronicles 21:1

    ¶ And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel.

  • 1 Chronicles 21:5

    And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all [they of] Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah [was] four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.
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