1 Chronicles 8:11

KJV

And of Hushim he begat Abitub, and Elpaal.

KJV (with Strong's)

And of Hushim {H2366} he begat {H3205} Abitub {H36}, and Elpaal {H508}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Through Hushim he fathered Avituv and Elpa'al.

Berean Standard Bible

He also had sons by Hushim: Abitub and Elpaal.

American Standard Version

And of Hushim he begat Abitub and Elpaal.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:11 is a concise yet significant verse embedded within the extensive Benjaminite genealogies of the Book of 1 Chronicles. It precisely records two sons, Abitub and Elpaal, born to Hushim, thereby meticulously tracing a specific branch of Benjamin's descendants. This seemingly simple record underscores the Chronicler's profound concern for continuity, tribal identity, and God's faithful preservation of His people's lineage, laying foundational groundwork for understanding Israel's historical and theological trajectory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The Book of 1 Chronicles begins with nine chapters dedicated almost exclusively to genealogies, tracing the lineage from Adam through the various tribes of Israel. This meticulous record-keeping serves as a theological statement, emphasizing God's covenant faithfulness and the continuity of His people, particularly for a post-exilic audience seeking to re-establish their identity and heritage. Chapter 8 specifically focuses on the tribe of Benjamin, providing an exceptionally detailed account of its various families and their dwelling places. Verse 11, "And of Hushim he begat Abitub, and Elpaal," functions as a precise link in this intricate chain, demonstrating the careful preservation of family lines within this significant tribe, which notably included Israel's first king, Saul, and later, the apostle Paul.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, genealogies were far more than mere lists of names; they were vital documents establishing tribal identity, validating land claims (as seen in [Numbers 26](/numbers/26 "Numbers 26 - Census of the Tribes of Israel")), confirming eligibility for priestly service, and tracing royal succession. For the post-exilic community, for whom the Book of Chronicles was primarily written, these records were crucial for rebuilding society, re-establishing temple worship, and affirming their place as the covenant people of God. The emphasis on patrilineal descent ensured the purity of tribal lines and the proper distribution of inherited property and responsibilities. The inclusion of seemingly minor figures like Hushim, Abitub, and Elpaal highlights the comprehensive nature of this record-keeping, reflecting a cultural value placed on every individual's place within the larger family and national narrative.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, like the surrounding genealogies, contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Lineage and Identity**, demonstrating how an individual's identity and inheritance were inextricably linked to their tribal affiliation and ancestral roots. Secondly, it exemplifies **Meticulous Record-Keeping**, underscoring the divine attention to detail in the unfolding of history and the preservation of God's people. This meticulousness assures the reader of the reliability of the biblical narrative. Thirdly, and perhaps most profoundly, the preservation of these detailed genealogies points to **God's Faithfulness**. Despite exile and dispersion, God maintained the lineage of His covenant people, preparing the way for future significant figures, including the Messiah. The precise recording of even seemingly obscure names like Hushim, Abitub, and Elpaal ultimately contributes to the unbroken chain that culminates in the [genealogy of Jesus Christ](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"), proving His rightful claim as the promised King and Savior.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hushim (חוּשִׁים, _Ḥūšîm_):** This name appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often referring to different individuals. In this context, Hushim is identified as a descendant of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:8). The name itself is somewhat ambiguous in meaning, potentially deriving from a root meaning "to make haste" or "to be silent." Its inclusion here signifies the continuation of a specific family line within the extensive Benjaminite clan, highlighting the Chronicler's commitment to completeness in his genealogical records.
* **Abitub (אֲבִיטוּב, _ʾĂḇîṭûḇ_):** This Hebrew name translates to "my father is good." Such names, incorporating "Ab" (father) and an attribute, were common in ancient Israel, often reflecting a parent's declaration about God's character or a hope for their child. In this instance, it could be a testament to the goodness of Hushim, or more likely, a theological statement acknowledging God as the good Father who provides and blesses.
* **Elpaal (אֶלְפַּעַל, _ʾElpaʿal_):** This name means "God of action" or "God of deeds." Like Abitub, it is a theophoric name, meaning it incorporates a divine element, "El" (God). This type of naming practice was widespread and served to embed theological truths directly into a person's identity, reminding them and their community of God's active involvement in human affairs and His powerful works. Its presence here subtly reinforces the underlying theological message of the genealogies: God is active in history, orchestrating events and preserving lines.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And of Hushim":** This phrase establishes the immediate paternal link, indicating that the following names are the direct descendants of Hushim. It connects this specific family unit to the broader lineage of Benjamin, as detailed in the preceding verses of 1 Chronicles 8. The "And" (וְ, _wě_) serves as a simple conjunction, linking this new entry to the ongoing list of descendants.
* **"he begat":** The Hebrew verb יָלַד (_yalad_), meaning "to beget" or "to bear," is a foundational term in biblical genealogies. Its repeated use throughout these chapters emphasizes the direct, biological succession from father to son, establishing clear lines of descent and validating the continuity of the family and tribal structure. It underscores the process of procreation as God's ordained means of continuing the covenant people.
* **"Abitub, and Elpaal":** These are the two named sons born to Hushim. Their inclusion signifies the continuation of Hushim's line through these specific individuals. While no further details are given about Abitub or Elpaal in this immediate context, their names are preserved as integral components of the Benjaminite tribal record, demonstrating the Chronicler's comprehensive approach to documenting the nation's heritage.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 8:11, and indeed throughout the genealogical sections of Chronicles, is **Catalog** or **List**. This verse is a precise entry within an extended enumeration of names, serving to meticulously document the lineage of Benjamin. The **Repetition** of the phrase "he begat" (or similar genealogical markers) is a structural device common to all biblical genealogies, providing a rhythmic and consistent framework for tracing descent. This repetitive structure emphasizes the unbroken chain of generations and the continuity of God's covenant people. Furthermore, the inclusion of names with inherent meanings, such as Abitub ("my father is good") and Elpaal ("God of action"), introduces an element of **Onomastics**, where the study of names reveals subtle theological or personal insights embedded within the historical record. While not a narrative, the very act of listing names serves a profound literary purpose, creating a sense of historical depth and divine oversight.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While seemingly a simple record of names, 1 Chronicles 8:11 powerfully contributes to the overarching biblical narrative of God's unwavering faithfulness and sovereign plan. It reminds us that God's grand design unfolds not just through prominent figures and dramatic events, but also through the meticulous preservation of countless individual lives and family lines, many of whom remain unnamed or are merely listed. Each "begat" represents a divine act of sustaining a lineage, ensuring the continuity of the covenant people through whom the Messiah would ultimately come. This verse, therefore, is a testament to God's attention to detail and His commitment to His promises, demonstrating that every life, no matter how seemingly insignificant in the grand scheme, plays a part in His unfolding story of redemption.

* [Genesis 5:1-32](/genesis/5-1 "Genesis 5:1-32 - The Genealogy from Adam to Noah")
* [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")
* [Romans 9:4-5](/romans/9-4 "Romans 9:4-5 - The Privileges of Israel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 8:11, though a brief genealogical entry, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It invites us to consider the meticulousness of God's providence, reminding us that He is intimately involved in the details of history, down to individual family lines. This should instill a deep sense of trust in His sovereign care over our own lives and the unfolding of His purposes. Just as Hushim, Abitub, and Elpaal played their part in the larger story, so too does every individual have a unique, divinely appointed place within God's ongoing narrative. We are called to appreciate the spiritual heritage passed down through generations of faith, recognizing that we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. This verse encourages us to value our own "roots"—both physical and spiritual—and to live in a way that honors the legacy of faith, contributing faithfully to the household of God, as described in [Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Fellow Citizens with God's People").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of biblical genealogies, like 1 Chronicles 8:11, challenge our perception of what God considers important?**
* **In what ways does recognizing our own "place" within God's larger story, whether through physical lineage or spiritual adoption, impact our sense of purpose and identity?**
* **What does the preservation of seemingly minor family lines tell us about God's faithfulness to His promises, even when their fulfillment seems distant or obscure?**

### FAQ
**Why are these genealogies so detailed and seemingly repetitive?**

Answer: The detailed and often repetitive nature of biblical genealogies, including 1 Chronicles 8:11, serves several crucial purposes for the original audience and for us today. Firstly, they establish **identity and legitimacy**, particularly for the post-exilic community of Israel, confirming tribal affiliations, land rights, and eligibility for priestly or royal roles (e.g., [Ezra 2:62](/ezra/2-62 "Ezra 2:62 - Those Who Could Not Prove Their Lineage")). Secondly, they demonstrate **God's faithfulness** in preserving His covenant people through generations, despite challenges and exiles. Thirdly, they provide a **historical framework**, showing the continuity of God's plan from creation to the time of the Chronicler, and ultimately, pointing towards the coming of the Messiah. Each name, though seemingly minor, represents a link in the unbroken chain of God's sovereign work in history.

**Is Hushim related to other individuals named Hushim in the Bible?**

Answer: The Bible mentions a few individuals named Hushim, and it's important to distinguish them. The Hushim in 1 Chronicles 8:11 is a descendant of Benjamin, specifically listed as a son of Aher (or Ahiram, depending on the translation of 1 Chronicles 8:4). There is another Hushim mentioned in [Genesis 46:23](/genesis/46-23 "Genesis 46:23 - The Sons of Dan"), who is listed as a son of Dan. These are distinct individuals from different tribes and time periods. The repetition of names was common in ancient cultures, and context is key to identifying the specific person being referenced in any given biblical passage.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 8:11 appears to be a mere listing of names, its profound Christ-centered fulfillment lies in its contribution to the unbroken chain of God's sovereign preservation of humanity's lineage, ultimately leading to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Each "begat" in these genealogies, including the seemingly obscure mention of Hushim, Abitub, and Elpaal, represents a deliberate step in God's redemptive plan, ensuring the continuity of the human family from which the promised Seed would emerge, as first prophesied in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"). The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping underscores that Christ's arrival was not a random event but the culmination of centuries of divine faithfulness, a testament to God's precise timing. Jesus, born "when the fullness of time had come" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son")), perfectly fulfilled the genealogical requirements of the Messiah, being a descendant of David through the tribe of Judah ([Hebrews 7:14](/hebrews/7-14 "Hebrews 7:14 - Jesus from the Tribe of Judah")). Thus, even a verse like 1 Chronicles 8:11, by affirming the continuity of a specific family line within Israel, subtly points to the sovereign hand of God orchestrating history to bring forth the "Root and the Offspring of David" ([Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, the Root and Descendant of David")), our Lord and Savior.

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.