1 Chronicles 7:9

KJV

And the number of them, after their genealogy by their generations, heads of the house of their fathers, mighty men of valour, [was] twenty thousand and two hundred.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the number {H3187} of them, after their genealogy by their generations {H8435}, heads {H7218} of the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, mighty men {H1368} of valour {H2428}, was twenty {H6242} thousand {H505} and two hundred {H3967}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Listed in genealogical records by generations under leaders of fathers' clans, who were strong, brave men, were 20,200.

Berean Standard Bible

Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth; all these were Becher’s sons. Their genealogies were recorded according to the heads of their families—20,200 mighty men of valor.

American Standard Version

And they were reckoned by genealogy, after their generations, heads of their fathers’ houses, mighty men of valor, twenty thousand and two hundred.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 7:9 is a precise genealogical entry within the extensive records of the tribe of Ephraim, meticulously detailing a specific lineage and enumerating twenty thousand and two hundred "mighty men of valour." This verse serves not merely as a numerical count but as a testament to the strength, vitality, and continued existence of this particular family line within Ephraim, underscoring the Chronicler's emphasis on tribal identity, military capacity, and God's faithfulness in preserving His people amidst historical challenges.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 7:9 is situated within the extensive genealogical sections of 1 Chronicles 1-9, which form the foundational bedrock of the Chronicler's work. These chapters are not mere lists but serve a crucial theological and historical purpose for the post-exilic community. Chapter 7 specifically details the genealogies of various northern tribes, including Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. Within this chapter, verses 20-29 focus on the descendants of Ephraim. Verse 9, however, appears earlier in the chapter, seemingly as a summary statement for a particular branch of Ephraim's lineage, possibly related to the earlier mention of losses suffered by Ephraim's sons at the hands of the men of Gath (as implied by [1 Chronicles 7:21](/1_chronicles/7-21 "1 Chronicles 7:21 - Ephraim's Sons Killed by Gathites")). The Chronicler's placement of this numerical summary highlights the enduring strength and resilience of the tribe despite setbacks, reinforcing themes of continuity and divine preservation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For ancient Israel, genealogies were far more than simple family trees; they were vital legal, social, and religious documents. They established tribal identity, confirmed land inheritance rights (as detailed in books like [Numbers](/numbers/1 "Numbers - The Book of Censuses and Laws")), validated priestly succession, and demonstrated the continuity of God's covenant with His chosen people. The post-exilic community, to whom the Chronicler wrote, desperately needed these records to re-establish their identity, rebuild their society, and confirm their place in the land of Israel. The phrase "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: _gibborê ḥayil_) was a common designation for men fit for military service, leadership, or possessing significant influence and wealth. Listing such individuals was a way of assessing a tribe's strength, its capacity for defense, and its overall societal contribution, reflecting the importance of military readiness in a volatile ancient Near Eastern environment.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous recording in 1 Chronicles 7:9 contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. First, **Genealogical Precision and Identity** is paramount, underscoring the importance of lineage for establishing tribal and family identity, land rights, and the continuity of God's covenant people. Second, the emphasis on **Strength and Valor** through the phrase "mighty men of valour" highlights the military prowess and leadership capabilities within these families, signifying the tribe's vitality and capacity for defense and contribution to the nation. This is not merely a count of individuals but a qualitative assessment of their character and abilities. Third, and perhaps most profoundly, the detailed genealogies, even those noting past losses, subtly convey **Divine Faithfulness and Preservation**. Despite tribal conflicts, exiles, and setbacks, God faithfully preserved His people and their distinct identities, ensuring the continuation of His covenant promises, ultimately pointing towards the lineage from which the Messiah would come, as seen in the genealogies of [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mighty men of valour (Hebrew, גִּבּוֹרֵי חַיִל, _gibborê ḥayil_):** This compound phrase is rich in meaning. _Gibbor_ (גִּבּוֹר) refers to a strong man, a hero, a warrior, or a champion. It denotes physical strength, courage, and often military prowess. _Ḥayil_ (חַיִל) is a versatile term that can mean strength, power, wealth, army, or military force. When combined, _gibborê ḥayil_ describes individuals who are not only physically robust but also courageous, competent, and effective, particularly in a military or leadership capacity. It implies a moral and spiritual fortitude alongside physical strength, signifying men who are capable of defending their people, leading in battle, or otherwise contributing significantly to the well-being and security of their community. This term is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe prominent figures, such as [Gideon](/judges/6-12 "Judges 6:12 - Gideon, a Mighty Man of Valor") or David's elite warriors ([2 Samuel 23:8](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8 - David's Mighty Men")).
* **Genealogy (Hebrew, יַחַשׂ, _yaḥas_):** Derived from the verb meaning "to register" or "to enroll by lineage," _yaḥas_ specifically refers to a genealogical record or a census based on family lines. Its use here underscores the meticulous and official nature of the Chronicler's record-keeping. This was not a casual listing but a formal, authoritative document establishing identity, rights, and responsibilities within the tribal structure of Israel. The emphasis on "generations" and "heads of the house of their fathers" further highlights the patrilineal and hierarchical structure of ancient Israelite society, where identity was deeply rooted in one's ancestral line.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the number of them":** This opening phrase immediately signals the Chronicler's intent to provide a precise numerical tally. The emphasis on "number" (מִסְפָּר, _mispar_) highlights the administrative and statistical importance of these records, which were crucial for assessing tribal strength, military potential, and population for various purposes, including taxation or conscription.
* **"after their genealogy by their generations, heads of the house of their fathers":** This clause emphasizes the meticulous and systematic basis of the count. It wasn't a random aggregation but a carefully compiled list based on established family lines, tracing back through generations to the patriarchal heads of each household. This detail underscores the authenticity and authority of the record, vital for the post-exilic community seeking to re-establish its identity and claims.
* **"mighty men of valour":** This specific designation clarifies that the count is not of all males but of those who possessed the qualities of strength, courage, and military capability. This was a significant subset of the population, representing the fighting force and leadership potential of the lineage. It speaks to the quality and not just the quantity of the men being counted.
* **"[was] twenty thousand and two hundred":** This precise figure provides the numerical outcome of the genealogical survey. The specific number, 20,200, indicates a substantial and formidable fighting force from this particular branch of Ephraim. Such a large number would have been a source of pride and reassurance for the post-exilic community, demonstrating the enduring vitality and strength of God's people despite their past trials.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 7:9, and indeed throughout the genealogical sections of Chronicles, is **Enumeration**. This device involves the detailed listing or counting of items, in this case, individuals and their numbers within specific lineages. Its purpose here is not merely informative but deeply theological and practical: to establish identity, validate claims, and demonstrate the continuity and strength of God's covenant people. Closely related is **Repetition**, particularly of the phrase "mighty men of valour" (which appears elsewhere in Chronicles, e.g., [1 Chronicles 7:5](/1_chronicles/7-5 "1 Chronicles 7:5 - Mighty Men of Valor in Issachar")). This repetition serves to emphasize the significance of this quality and to highlight the military and leadership potential within the listed tribes. Furthermore, there is an element of **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy**, where the "mighty men of valour" represent the broader strength, vitality, and enduring presence of the entire lineage or tribe. The part (the warriors) stands for the whole (the tribe's overall power and resilience).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 7:9, though seemingly a dry statistical entry, is deeply theological. It underscores God's meticulous care for His people, even in their most granular details. The very act of preserving these genealogies, especially for a community returning from exile, speaks volumes about God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. It reminds us that every individual, every family, and every generation plays a part in God's unfolding story of redemption. The emphasis on "mighty men of valour" also subtly points to the idea that God raises up and empowers individuals for specific purposes, whether for physical defense or, in a broader sense, for spiritual strength and courageous living within His kingdom. This verse asserts the enduring identity and strength of God's people, not merely as a historical fact, but as a testament to His sovereign hand guiding their destiny.

* [Numbers 1:2-3](/numbers/1-2 "Numbers 1:2-3 - Census for Military Service") - God commands a census of "all who are able to go to war" to assess Israel's military strength, similar to the count of "mighty men of valour."
* [Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints") - Believers are no longer strangers but "fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God," emphasizing our spiritual identity and belonging within God's family.
* [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - Remnant Chosen by Grace") - God consistently preserves a "remnant" by grace, illustrating His faithfulness in maintaining a people for Himself throughout history, echoing the preservation seen in the genealogies.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While we do not trace our spiritual lineage through physical genealogies in the same way ancient Israel did, 1 Chronicles 7:9 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of detail and purpose; He knows each of us intimately, and our lives are not random. Just as the Ephraimites found their identity and purpose within their tribal structure, we find our truest identity and purpose as adopted sons and daughters in Christ, members of His spiritual family. The concept of "mighty men of valour" challenges us to consider what spiritual valor looks like in our own lives. It's not about physical prowess but about courage in faith, resilience in the face of spiritual challenges, and strength to stand firm in truth and righteousness. We are called to be spiritually strong, equipped by God's Spirit to navigate a fallen world, to contend for the faith, and to live lives that reflect the character of Christ. This verse encourages us to embrace our place in God's grand narrative, recognizing that our individual lives contribute to the ongoing story of His kingdom, and that He faithfully preserves and empowers His people for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's meticulous care for ancient genealogies inform our view of His care for our individual lives today?**
* **In what ways are we called to be "mighty men and women of valour" in our spiritual lives, and what does this look like practically in our daily walk with Christ?**
* **How does our identity in Christ connect us to a grander spiritual "genealogy" or family of faith, and what responsibilities come with that inheritance?**

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies so prevalent in Chronicles, and what was their purpose for the original audience?**

Answer: Genealogies are central to the book of Chronicles, especially in chapters 1-9, because they served critical purposes for the post-exilic community in Judah. After returning from Babylon, the people needed to re-establish their identity, land claims, and religious order. These lists provided a historical anchor, confirming who belonged to which tribe, validating land inheritance (as seen in [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13-19 - Division of the Land")), and ensuring the purity of priestly and Levitical lines for temple service. They also demonstrated the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, assuring them that despite exile, God had preserved a remnant and remained faithful to His promises, including the promise of a Davidic king ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")).

**What does "mighty men of valour" imply beyond physical strength?**

Answer: The Hebrew phrase _gibborê ḥayil_ (גִּבּוֹרֵי חַיִל) signifies more than just physical prowess. While it certainly includes the ability to fight and withstand hardship, it also implies qualities of character, leadership, and competence. These were individuals who possessed courage, strategic thinking, and often, a degree of influence or wealth that enabled them to lead or equip others. They were not just strong, but effective and honorable individuals who contributed significantly to the well-being and defense of their community. This term often describes men of standing and reputation within their society, such as [Gideon in Judges 6:12](/judges/6-12 "Judges 6:12 - Gideon, a Mighty Man of Valor").

**How does a seemingly dry list like this contribute to our understanding of God's character?**

Answer: Even in what appears to be a mundane list, 1 Chronicles 7:9 reveals profound aspects of God's character. First, it demonstrates God's **meticulousness and orderliness**; He is a God who cares about details and maintains order even in complex human histories. Second, it highlights His **faithfulness and preservation**; despite the numerous challenges and exiles Israel faced, God consistently preserved a remnant and maintained their identity, ensuring the continuity of His covenant people. Third, it speaks to His **sovereignty over history**; these genealogies are not random but part of His grand design, ultimately pointing towards the lineage through which the Messiah would come ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")). Thus, even a numerical count underscores God's active involvement and unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 7:9 focuses on the physical lineage and strength of the tribe of Ephraim, its deeper significance finds profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The meticulous preservation of genealogies throughout the Old Testament ultimately points to the arrival of the promised Seed, the Messiah, through whom all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). Jesus is the ultimate "Mighty Man of Valour," not merely in physical strength, but as the conquering King who triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). He is the true head of a new, spiritual household, the Church, into which believers are adopted, gaining an eternal identity and inheritance not based on physical lineage but on faith in Him ([Galatians 3:26-29](/galatians/3-26 "Galatians 3:26-29 - Children of God by Faith")). The preservation of the Ephraimite lineage foreshadows God's far greater preservation of His people through Christ's redemptive work, ensuring a spiritual "remnant" and a new covenant community, the Church, which is called to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might ([Ephesians 6:10](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10 - Be Strong in the Lord")). In Christ, we find our true genealogy, our ultimate valor, and our eternal security within God's family.

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.