1 Chronicles 8:1

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:1 initiates a detailed genealogical record of the tribe of Benjamin, specifically listing Benjamin's first three sons: Bela, Ashbel, and Aharah. This verse serves as a foundational entry within the Chronicler's broader aim to meticulously preserve the tribal identities, historical lineage, and land claims of Israel, particularly for the community returning from Babylonian exile, underscoring God's faithfulness to His covenant people through their generational continuity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse opens the eighth chapter of 1 Chronicles, which is entirely dedicated to the genealogy of Benjamin. It follows seven preceding chapters that meticulously trace the lineages from Adam through various patriarchal and tribal lines, including Judah, Simeon, Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. The Chronicler's work, beginning with Adam and progressing through the tribes, establishes a comprehensive historical and theological framework for the post-exilic community. Chapter 8, with its intricate details of Benjamin's descendants, their dwelling places, and key figures, serves to re-establish tribal identity and land rights, crucial for the reordering of society and worship in the restored land. The shift from a broader genealogical sweep to such specific tribal detail highlights Benjamin's importance, perhaps due to its proximity to Jerusalem and its role in the kingdom's history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of 1 Chronicles was likely compiled in the post-exilic period, around 450-400 BC, for the Jewish community returning to Judah from Babylon. This community faced the challenge of re-establishing their identity, land ownership, and religious practices after decades of displacement. Genealogies were not merely historical curiosities but vital legal and social documents. They determined inheritance, tribal affiliation, eligibility for priestly service, and even marriage alliances. The tribe of Benjamin was significant, having been part of the Southern Kingdom of Judah and including the city of Jerusalem within its territory. Its lineage was also notable for producing Israel's first king, Saul, and later, the Apostle Paul. The meticulous recording of "begats" (Hebrew: _yalad_) reflected a cultural emphasis on patrilineal descent and the preservation of family lines as the bedrock of national identity and continuity.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous listing of Benjamin's sons in this verse contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. Primarily, it underscores **The Importance of Lineage and Continuity**, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people through generations, even after the trauma of exile. These genealogies were not just about the past but provided a foundation for the future, establishing who belonged to the covenant community and had a rightful claim to the land and its promises. This commitment to tracing family lines ultimately points towards the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through a specific lineage, as seen in the Davidic covenant and its culmination in the Messiah (cf. [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "The Davidic Covenant")). Furthermore, the focus on specific tribes like Benjamin highlights **Tribal Identity and Organization**, which was crucial for the re-establishment of the nation's social and religious order. The Chronicler's dedication to such precise records also emphasizes a commitment to **Historical Accuracy and Divine Providence**, assuring the returning exiles that their history was not accidental but divinely orchestrated, with every individual and family having a place in God's unfolding plan (cf. [Nehemiah 7](/nehemiah/7 "Nehemiah 7 - The List of Those Who Returned")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Benjamin (בִּנְיָמִן, _binyāmīn'_):** Meaning "son of the right hand" or "son of fortune," Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, born near Bethlehem (cf. [Genesis 35:18](/genesis/35-18 "Genesis 35:18 - Rachel Names Benjamin")). His name carries significant theological weight, often associated with strength and favor. The tribe of Benjamin was known for its fierce warriors and its strategic location. In Chronicles, the focus on Benjamin's lineage re-establishes the identity and historical claims of a tribe that was integral to the Southern Kingdom and the post-exilic community.
* **begat (יָלַד, _yalad'_):** This common Hebrew verb signifies "to give birth," "to beget," or "to bear." In genealogical contexts, it denotes direct patrilineal descent, emphasizing the unbroken chain of generations. The repeated use of this verb throughout the genealogies in Chronicles underscores the divine preservation of family lines and the meticulous record-keeping that was essential for establishing identity, inheritance, and covenant continuity within ancient Israel. It is a simple yet profound word that builds the entire historical framework of the nation.
* **Bela (בֶּלַע, _bela'_):** The name Bela means "swallowing" or "destruction," possibly implying strength or ferocity, as suggested in other biblical contexts (e.g., a city name in [Genesis 14:2](/genesis/14-2 "Genesis 14:2 - Bela, which is Zoar")). As Benjamin's firstborn, Bela's lineage would have been particularly important for tribal leadership and inheritance. The Chronicler's listing of him first establishes the primary line of descent for the tribe.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now Benjamin begat Bela his firstborn,"**: This clause immediately establishes the patriarch of the lineage being detailed and his eldest son. The use of "begat" (Hebrew _yalad_) signifies direct patrilineal descent, a foundational concept for all biblical genealogies. Bela, as the "firstborn," held a position of preeminence, typically inheriting a double portion and leadership responsibilities within the family and tribe. His position here marks the primary branch of Benjamin's descendants that the Chronicler is about to trace.
* **"Ashbel the second,"**: This clause introduces the second son of Benjamin. While not holding the birthright, Ashbel's inclusion is crucial for a complete record of Benjamin's direct offspring. His name, possibly meaning "a man of God" or "fire of God," contributes to the rich tapestry of names within Israelite families, often reflecting hopes, circumstances, or divine associations. The meticulous enumeration of each son underscores the Chronicler's commitment to comprehensive record-keeping.
* **"and Aharah the third,"**: This final clause in the verse lists Benjamin's third son. Aharah, whose name could mean "after brother" or "another brother," completes the initial enumeration of Benjamin's direct male progeny. The precise ordinal numbering ("firstborn," "second," "third") reinforces the structured and systematic nature of the genealogical record, ensuring clarity and accuracy for the post-exilic community who relied on these lists for their identity and claims.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 8:1, and indeed throughout the initial chapters of Chronicles, is **Genealogy**. This is not merely a list of names but a structured literary form that establishes historical continuity, tribal identity, and covenantal lineage. The repetitive use of the verb "begat" (יָלַד, _yalad_) creates a rhythmic, almost incantatory effect, emphasizing the unbroken chain of generations. The precise enumeration of the sons ("firstborn," "second," "third") demonstrates **Order and Precision**, highlighting the Chronicler's meticulous approach to historical record-keeping. While not immediately apparent in this single verse, the broader genealogical sections employ **Repetition** of names and structures to reinforce the vastness and interconnectedness of Israel's family tree. The very act of listing these names also serves as a form of **Historical Validation**, assuring the returning exiles of their legitimate heritage and place within God's covenant people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 8:1, though a simple genealogical entry, is deeply theological. It implicitly affirms God's faithfulness to His covenant promises by demonstrating the preservation of Israel's tribal identity through centuries, even through periods of national decline and exile. The meticulous recording of lineages underscores the divine hand in history, ensuring that the covenant people remained distinct and traceable, ultimately pointing towards the fulfillment of promises concerning a specific seed. This verse serves as a reminder that God works through generations, preserving a remnant and building His kingdom through the seemingly mundane details of family history. It is a testament to the fact that every individual, every family, has a place in God's grand narrative of redemption.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Nations According to Their Genealogies")
* [Ezra 2:59](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59 - Those Who Could Not Prove Their Ancestry")
* [Nehemiah 7:5](/nehemiah/7-5 "Nehemiah 7:5 - The Importance of Genealogies for Returnees")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a list of names might seem distant to the modern reader, 1 Chronicles 8:1 offers profound insights into God's character and our place in His story. It reminds us that God is a God of detail, who meticulously cares for the lineage and identity of His people. Just as Benjamin's descendants were carefully recorded, so too are our lives known and valued by God. This passage encourages us to appreciate our own heritage, whether physical or spiritual, and to recognize that we are part of a larger, ongoing narrative of faith. It challenges us to consider how our lives contribute to the legacy of faith passed down through generations and how we might faithfully steward that heritage for those who come after us. It calls us to find our identity not merely in our personal achievements but in our connection to God's covenant people and His unfolding plan for humanity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Chronicler's meticulous attention to genealogies, as seen in this verse, speak to God's character and His involvement in human history?**
* **In what ways does understanding our own physical or spiritual lineage help us to better understand our identity and purpose in God's larger story?**
* **What "details" in our lives might seem insignificant but could be part of God's larger, providential plan, much like these ancient family records?**
* **How can we, as individuals and as a community of faith, better steward the spiritual heritage we have received and pass it on to future generations?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so important in the Bible, especially in books like 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial in the Bible for several reasons, particularly in 1 Chronicles. Firstly, they establish **identity and belonging** for the people of Israel, especially for the post-exilic community who needed to re-establish their tribal affiliations, land claims, and eligibility for priestly service (cf. [Ezra 2:62](/ezra/2-62 "Ezra 2:62 - Priests Who Could Not Prove Their Lineage")). Secondly, they demonstrate **historical continuity and the fulfillment of God's promises**, showing how God faithfully preserved a people through whom His redemptive plan would unfold. The unbroken lineage from Adam to the returning exiles underscored God's covenant faithfulness. Thirdly, they served as **legal documents** for land inheritance and tribal organization. Finally, and most significantly, these genealogies ultimately point to the **lineage of the Messiah**, tracing the specific family lines through which the promised Savior would come, as seen in the genealogies of Jesus in the New Testament (cf. [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 8:1 presents a seemingly dry list of names, its Christ-centered fulfillment is profound, lying in the very purpose of these genealogies: to trace the lineage through which God's ultimate covenant promises would be realized. The meticulous preservation of the tribe of Benjamin's identity, along with all the other tribes, ensures the continuity of the people of Israel, from whom the Messiah would eventually emerge. Though Jesus came through the tribe of Judah, the existence and integrity of all twelve tribes were vital for the full tapestry of God's redemptive plan, representing the whole of Israel to whom the promises were made. This verse, therefore, contributes to the grand narrative of God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen people, culminating in the birth of Jesus Christ, the true Son of David and the Lamb of God, who came not only for Israel but for all nations (cf. [Romans 15:8-12](/romans/15-8 "Romans 15:8-12 - Christ, a Servant to the Circumcised and Gentiles")). The careful record-keeping of human lineage in the Old Testament foreshadows the divine precision with which God orchestrated the incarnation, ensuring that Jesus was indeed the promised "seed" who would crush the serpent's head (cf. [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium")) and fulfill all the law and the prophets (cf. [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")).

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.