1 Chronicles 8:13

KJV

Beriah also, and Shema, who [were] heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Aijalon, who drove away the inhabitants of Gath:

KJV (with Strong's)

Beriah {H1283} also, and Shema {H8087}, who {H1992} were heads {H7218} of the fathers {H1} of the inhabitants {H3427} of Aijalon {H357}, who drove away {H1272} the inhabitants {H3427} of Gath {H1661}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and B'ri'ah and Shema - they were heads of fathers' clans among the inhabitants of Ayalon, who drove away the people living in Gat.

Berean Standard Bible

Eber, Misham, Shemed (who built Ono and Lod with its villages), and Beriah and Shema (who were the heads of families of the inhabitants of Aijalon and who drove out the inhabitants of Gath).

American Standard Version

and Beriah, and Shema, who were heads of fathers’ houses of the inhabitants of Aijalon, who put to flight the inhabitants of Gath;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:13 offers a concise yet potent glimpse into the valor of Beriah and Shema, two prominent Benjaminite clan leaders from Aijalon, who distinguished themselves by driving away the inhabitants of Gath. This specific historical detail, embedded within an extensive genealogical record, serves to highlight their military prowess, decisive leadership, and active role in securing Israelite territory against a formidable Philistine adversary, providing a significant historical and theological marker within the Chronicler's overarching narrative for the post-exilic community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the lengthy and meticulously detailed genealogies of 1 Chronicles, specifically focusing on the tribe of Benjamin in chapter 8. Unlike mere exhaustive lists of names, the Chronicler frequently interjects specific actions, notable achievements, or significant events, as seen with Beriah and Shema here. This practice serves multiple purposes: it breaks the potential monotony of the genealogical lists, highlights individuals whose contributions were pivotal to Israel's history, land possession, or leadership, and provides a more dynamic and purposeful narrative. The Chronicler's emphasis on Benjamin is particularly significant given its association with Israel's first king, Saul, and the eventual location of Jerusalem within its tribal territory, underscoring the tribe's enduring importance in the national identity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Chronicles was composed for the Jewish community returning from Babylonian exile, a time when re-establishing their identity, reaffirming their land rights, and revitalizing their national and spiritual purpose were paramount. Genealogies were thus crucial instruments for connecting the present community to their ancestral heritage and the enduring covenant promises of God. Aijalon, the home of Beriah and Shema, was a strategically vital town situated in the Shephelah, a crucial border region between the Israelite highlands and the Philistine plain. This area was frequently contested, famously mentioned in connection with [Joshua's prayer for the sun to stand still](/joshua/10-12 "Joshua 10:12 - Joshua's Prayer at Aijalon"). Gath, on the other hand, was one of the five major Philistine city-states, a powerful and persistent adversary of Israel throughout much of its early history, known for figures like Goliath, as recorded in [1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath"). The act of "driving away" the inhabitants of Gath signifies a successful military engagement or territorial assertion, likely occurring during the period of the Judges or early monarchy, thereby contributing to Israel's control over its promised land. The phrase "heads of the fathers" (ראשׁי אבות, *rashei avot*) denotes prominent clan or family leaders, indicating their significant authority and responsibility within the tribal and societal structure.
* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of this verse within the Benjaminite genealogy contributes to several overarching themes present in 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Genealogical Continuity and Identity**, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving His people and their lineage through generations, even through periods of profound upheaval like the exile. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Providence and Land Possession**, showcasing how God empowers His people to secure and maintain the promised land against formidable enemies, thereby fulfilling His covenant promises. The expulsion of the Philistines from Gath serves as a concrete example of God's active involvement in Israel's history, echoing the foundational commands to dispossess the Canaanites found in passages like [Deuteronomy 7:1-2](/deuteronomy/7-1-2 "Deuteronomy 7:1-2 - Command to Drive Out Nations"). Thirdly, this verse emphasizes **Leadership and Action**, highlighting individuals who took decisive steps in their roles as "heads of the fathers," underscoring that God's redemptive plan unfolds not merely through divine decree but through the obedient and courageous actions of His chosen people. The Chronicler consistently points to such examples of faithfulness and valor throughout the historical record, encouraging his contemporary audience.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heads (Hebrew, _rôʼsh_):** Derived from a root meaning "to shake," this term literally refers to the head, but figuratively it denotes the most important or prominent part. In this context, "heads" signifies chief, leader, or principal. As "heads of the fathers," Beriah and Shema were the leading figures or chiefs of their respective patriarchal families or clans, holding positions of authority, responsibility, and influence within the tribe of Benjamin and the community of Aijalon. This highlights their preeminent status and the weight of their leadership.
* **Fathers (Hebrew, _ʼâb_):** A primitive word referring to a father, either literally or figuratively. In the phrase "heads of the fathers," 'fathers' refers to the patriarchal heads of extended families or clans. This term underscores the deeply rooted familial and tribal structure of ancient Israelite society, where identity, inheritance, and authority flowed through these patriarchal lines. Beriah and Shema were not just individuals, but representatives and leaders of their ancestral houses, making their actions significant for their entire lineage.
* **Drove away (Hebrew, _bârach_):** A primitive root meaning "to bolt" or "to flee suddenly." In the Hiphil stem (causative), as used here (הִבְרִיחוּ, *hivrikhu*), it means "to cause to flee," "to chase away," or "to put to flight." This verb conveys a sense of forceful, decisive, and successful expulsion. The action of "driving away" the inhabitants of Gath indicates a military victory or a successful assertion of territorial control, demonstrating the effectiveness and power of Beriah and Shema's leadership in confronting and overcoming a formidable enemy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Beriah also, and Shema, who [were] heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Aijalon":** This initial clause introduces the two key figures, Beriah and Shema, immediately establishing their prominence and authority within their community. Their designation as "heads of the fathers" identifies them as leading clan or family patriarchs, indicating their significant social, political, and potentially military standing. The mention of Aijalon, a strategically vital town in the Shephelah region, further contextualizes their influence within a key border area, setting the stage for their noteworthy action. This part of the verse emphasizes their identity and position within the Benjaminite tribal structure.
* **"who drove away the inhabitants of Gath":** This second clause details the specific and impactful accomplishment of Beriah and Shema. The verb "drove away" (Hebrew: הִבְרִיחוּ, *hivrikhu*) signifies a forceful and decisive expulsion or a military victory over the Philistine inhabitants of Gath. Gath was one of the most powerful and persistent enemies of Israel, making this achievement particularly significant. This action demonstrates a successful assertion of Israelite control or defense in the face of a formidable foe, directly contributing to the security and expansion of Israelite territory in a perennially contested region. It highlights their valor and the practical impact of their leadership in securing the promised land.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several effective **Literary Devices** in this concise verse. **Conciseness** and **Selective Detail** are paramount, as the author chooses to highlight this specific, impactful action within the otherwise extensive and often dry genealogical lists. Rather than merely enumerating names, the inclusion of "who drove away the inhabitants of Gath" serves as a powerful **Emphasis**, drawing the reader's attention to the significance of Beriah and Shema's leadership and military success. This also functions as a **Historical Marker**, providing a succinct yet potent glimpse into the ongoing struggle for land and sovereignty against the Philistines, a recurring and vital theme in Israel's history. Furthermore, the phrase "heads of the fathers" is a form of **Metonymy**, where the "heads" (leaders) represent the entire clan or patriarchal family, underscoring their collective authority and influence through their familial role. The brevity of the statement also gives it a sense of **Climax** within the genealogical flow, punctuating the list with an act of valor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though a brief historical note embedded within a genealogy, profoundly illustrates that God's covenant promises are not abstract concepts but are realized through the concrete, often courageous, actions of His people. The expulsion of the inhabitants of Gath by Beriah and Shema directly echoes God's foundational command to Israel to dispossess the inhabitants of the promised land, demonstrating that God empowers His chosen people to fulfill His purposes, even in the face of formidable opposition. For the post-exilic community, this detail would have served as an inspiring reminder of God's faithfulness in granting victory and securing their inheritance, encouraging them in their own efforts to rebuild and re-establish their nation. It underscores that active participation in God's redemptive plan is a vital aspect of covenant faithfulness, where human obedience and divine empowerment converge to advance God's kingdom.

* [Joshua 10:12](/joshua/10-12 "Joshua 10:12 - Sun Stands Still Over Aijalon")
* [Judges 1:19](/judges/1-19 "Judges 1:19 - Judah Fails to Drive Out Inhabitants of the Plain")
* [1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This seemingly minor detail in a long list of names offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God often works through ordinary people who take extraordinary action within their specific sphere of influence. Beriah and Shema were not kings or prophets, but "heads of fathers"—local leaders who used their position, courage, and strength to secure their community and advance God's purposes in the promised land. Their story encourages us to identify our own "Aijalons" and "Gaths"—the areas of influence where we can act decisively for righteousness, justice, and the advancement of God's kingdom. It teaches us that faithfulness in small, specific acts contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive work. We are called not just to exist but to actively participate, trusting that God will empower us to "drive away" the spiritual and moral strongholds that oppose His will in our lives and communities. Our sphere of influence, no matter how humble, is a place where God can use our obedience and courage to bring about His purposes, transforming our immediate surroundings and contributing to His global mission.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Chronicler's decision to include this specific action within a genealogy challenge our perception of what is "important" in God's narrative?**
* **In what ways are we called to be "heads of fathers" or leaders in our own spheres, taking decisive action for God's purposes?**
* **What "inhabitants of Gath"—spiritual strongholds, societal injustices, or personal sins—are we called to "drive away" in our lives or communities today, relying on God's empowerment?**

### FAQ
**Why does the Chronicler include such a specific detail about Beriah and Shema in a genealogy?**

Answer: The Chronicler's purpose was far more than merely listing names; it was to provide a theological history and an encouraging narrative for the post-exilic community. Including specific acts like driving away the inhabitants of Gath served several crucial functions: it highlighted the valor and leadership of certain individuals, demonstrated God's continued faithfulness in granting victory and securing the land, and provided inspiring examples for a people rebuilding their identity and nation. It shows that even within extensive lists, God's hand is at work through the actions of His people, reinforcing the importance of active participation in His plan for the promised land, as seen in the broader narrative of conquest in [Joshua 10](/joshua/10 "Joshua 10 - The Sun Stands Still Over Aijalon").

**What was the significance of Gath in ancient Israelite history?**

Answer: Gath was one of the five principal Philistine city-states (along with Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gaza, and Ekron), located in the strategic Shephelah region. It was a powerful and frequently hostile neighbor to Israel, often serving as a stronghold for their enemies and a symbol of Philistine might. Gath is famously known as the home of Goliath, the giant champion defeated by David, as recorded in [1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath"). It was a recurring point of conflict and a significant obstacle to Israel's full possession of the promised land. The act of "driving away" its inhabitants, even if temporary or partial, signified a significant victory or assertion of Israelite dominance in the region, contributing to the ongoing struggle for control of the promised land and the security of God's people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 8:13 details a historical act of military conquest by human leaders, its deeper Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the ultimate, decisive victory achieved by Jesus Christ. Beriah and Shema's act of "driving away the inhabitants of Gath" foreshadows Christ's absolute triumph over the spiritual enemies of humanity—sin, death, and the devil. Just as these ancient leaders secured physical territory for Israel, Jesus, the true Son of David and ultimate "Head of the fathers," conquered the spiritual strongholds that held humanity captive. He did not merely drive away but utterly disarmed and triumphed over these powers through His death and resurrection, making a public spectacle of them, as powerfully described in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers"). This victory is further celebrated in passages like [Ephesians 4:8](/ephesians/4-8 "Ephesians 4:8 - Christ Leading Captivity Captive"), where Christ is depicted as leading captivity captive, having ascended in triumph. The physical battles fought by Israel's leaders pointed to the ultimate spiritual warfare won by the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), who secures not just a plot of land but an eternal inheritance for all who believe, an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven, as promised in [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Incorruptible Inheritance"). Thus, the historical victory in Aijalon finds its grand consummation in Christ's cosmic triumph, enabling believers to live in the freedom of His kingdom, heirs to a spiritual territory secured by His ultimate conquest.

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.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 2:49

She bare also Shaaph the father of Madmannah, Sheva the father of Machbenah, and the father of Gibea: and the daughter of Caleb [was] Achsah.

1 Chronicles 2:50

These were the sons of Caleb the son of Hur, the firstborn of Ephratah; Shobal the father of Kirjathjearim,

1 Chronicles 4:4

And Penuel the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah. These [are] the sons of Hur, the firstborn of Ephratah, the father of Bethlehem.

Joshua 10:12

Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.

Joshua 19:42

And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah,

1 Chronicles 2:52

And Shobal the father of Kirjathjearim had sons; Haroeh, [and] half of the Manahethites.