1 Chronicles 8:1

ยถ Now Benjamin begat Bela his firstborn, Ashbel the second, and Aharah the third,

Now Benjamin {H1144} begat {H3205} Bela {H1106} his firstborn {H1060}, Ashbel {H788} the second {H8145}, and Aharah {H315} the third {H7992},

Binyamin fathered Bela his firstborn son; his second, Ashbel; his third, Achrach;

Benjamin was the father of Bela, his firstborn; Ashbel was the second born, Aharah the third,

And Benjamin begat Bela his first-born, Ashbel the second, and Aharah the third,

Commentary

1 Chronicles 8:1 begins a detailed genealogical record focusing on the tribe of Benjamin. This verse specifically lists Benjamin's first three sons: Bela, Ashbel, and Aharah. As part of the wider Chronicler's work, this passage underscores the meticulous preservation of Israel's tribal identities and their historical lineage.

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles primarily serves as a historical and spiritual record, tracing the lineage of God's covenant people from Adam through the patriarchs, the tribes of Israel, and especially the Davidic line. Chapters 1-9 are dedicated almost entirely to genealogies, establishing the identity and heritage of the Israelites returning from Babylonian exile. This particular chapter delves into the descendants of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, whose tribe held significant territory, including the city of Jerusalem. The detailed listing of families and their dwelling places in this chapter was crucial for land claims, tribal organization, and understanding the historical continuity of Israel.

Key Themes

  • The Importance of Lineage: This verse highlights God's meticulous record-keeping and the significance of family lines in biblical history. Genealogies were vital for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and the fulfillment of divine promises, ultimately pointing towards the lineage of the Messiah, as seen in the opening of the Gospels, such as Matthew 1:1.
  • Tribal Identity and Continuity: By listing the sons of Benjamin, the passage reinforces the distinct identity of this tribe within the twelve tribes of Israel. These records ensured that tribal distinctions and their associated responsibilities and inheritances were not lost, even after centuries. The tribe of Benjamin later produced Israel's first king, Saul (1 Samuel 9:1), and the Apostle Paul.
  • Historical Accuracy: The Chronicler's dedication to precise genealogical lists demonstrates a commitment to historical accuracy and the preservation of Israel's foundational narrative.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew verb translated "begat" is yalad (ื™ึธืœึทื“), a common term used throughout biblical genealogies to denote direct physical descent. The names of Benjamin's sons often have symbolic meanings, though not explicitly elaborated here: Bela (ื‘ึผึถืœึทืข) means "swallowing" or "destruction," possibly indicating strength or ferocity; Ashbel (ืึทืฉืึฐื‘ึผึตืœ) might mean "a man of God" or "fire of God"; and Aharah (ืึทื—ึฒืจึทื—) could mean "after brother" or "another brother." These names reflect the cultural practice of assigning names with meaning, often hoping to convey characteristics or circumstances of birth.

Practical Application

While a genealogical list may seem dry to a modern reader, 1 Chronicles 8:1 reminds us of several enduring truths:

  • God's Attention to Detail: Even seemingly minor details like family trees matter in God's grand plan. This can encourage us that God cares about the specifics of our lives too.
  • Our Place in a Larger Story: Just as Benjamin's sons had a place in Israel's history, we too are part of a larger spiritual lineage and God's ongoing work in the world. Understanding our heritage, whether physical or spiritual, helps us appreciate our identity and purpose.
  • The Value of History: The preservation of these records emphasizes the importance of knowing our history and understanding the roots of our faith.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 46:21

    And the sons of Benjamin [were] Belah, and Becher, and Ashbel, Gera, and Naaman, Ehi, and Rosh, Muppim, and Huppim, and Ard.

  • 1 Chronicles 7:6

    [The sons] of Benjamin; Bela, and Becher, and Jediael, three.

  • 1 Chronicles 7:12

    Shuppim also, and Huppim, the children of Ir, [and] Hushim, the sons of Aher.

  • Numbers 26:38

    The sons of Benjamin after their families: of Bela, the family of the Belaites: of Ashbel, the family of the Ashbelites: of Ahiram, the family of the Ahiramites:
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