1 Chronicles 8:27

KJV

And Jaresiah, and Eliah, and Zichri, the sons of Jeroham.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Jaresiah {H3298}, and Eliah {H452}, and Zichri {H2147}, the sons {H1121} of Jeroham {H3395}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Ya'areshyah, Eliyah and Zikhri were the sons of Yerocham.

Berean Standard Bible

Jaareshiah, Elijah, and Zichri were the sons of Jeroham.

American Standard Version

and Jaareshiah, and Elijah, and Zichri, the sons of Jeroham.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:27 is a concise entry within the extensive genealogical record of the tribe of Benjamin, specifically detailing "Jaresiah, Eliah, and Zichri, the sons of Jeroham." This verse, like others in the chapter, meticulously preserves the lineage of post-exilic Israel, affirming tribal identity, land rights, and the continuity of God's covenant promises through the careful documentation of individual families and their descendants. It underscores the Chronicler's commitment to providing a comprehensive historical and theological foundation for the returning community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within one of the longest and most detailed genealogies in the Old Testament, spanning 1 Chronicles 1-9. Specifically, chapter 8 focuses entirely on the tribe of Benjamin, a significant tribe due to its association with Israel's first king, Saul, and its proximity to Jerusalem. The chapter meticulously traces various Benjamite families, often listing their residences, particularly those in or around Jerusalem. Verses like [1 Chronicles 8:27](/1_chronicles/8-27 "1 Chronicles 8:27 - Genealogy of Benjamin") serve as individual data points in this comprehensive record, linking specific individuals to their fathers and broader family units, thereby establishing their place within the larger tribal structure. The repetitive nature of these lists emphasizes the Chronicler's diligent effort to reconstruct and affirm the tribal identities of the returning exiles.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Chronicles was likely compiled in the post-exilic period (late 5th or early 4th century BCE), after the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity. In this era, establishing and reaffirming identity was paramount. Genealogies were not merely historical curiosities; they were vital legal and social documents. They determined land inheritance (crucial after generations of displacement), tribal purity (especially for priestly lines), and the legitimacy of claims to leadership or specific roles within the re-established community. For the Chronicler's audience, these lists provided a tangible connection to their past, a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people despite their exile, and a blueprint for rebuilding their society based on their ancestral heritage.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous listing of names in [1 Chronicles 8](/1_chronicles/8 "1 Chronicles 8 - Genealogy of Benjamin") and throughout the genealogies of Chronicles contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it highlights the **importance of lineage and identity**, reminding the post-exilic community of who they are as God's chosen people, rooted in a specific history and covenant. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates **God's faithfulness and meticulous preservation**; even through periods of national catastrophe like the exile, God faithfully preserved a remnant and their family lines, ensuring the continuity necessary for the fulfillment of His promises. This divine care extends to every individual, no matter how seemingly obscure. Lastly, these genealogies underscore the **value of historical record-keeping** in ancient Israel, providing a foundational narrative that connects the present community to the patriarchs, the Exodus, the Davidic covenant, and ultimately, foreshadows the ultimate genealogy of the Messiah, as seen in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Jaresiah (Hebrew, _Yar'shiyah'_):** This name is derived from a root meaning "to possess" or "to inherit," often combined with a divine element. While some interpretations suggest "Yahweh has helped," a more direct rendering might relate to "possession of Yahweh" or "Yahweh's inheritance." In the context of genealogies and the post-exilic return, a name signifying divine help or inheritance would have resonated deeply, affirming God's role in restoring His people to their land and heritage.
* **Eliah (Hebrew, _Eliyah'_):** Meaning "My God is Yahweh" or "God of Yahweh." This name is a powerful theological statement, affirming the exclusive sovereignty of the God of Israel. Its presence in a genealogical list, alongside other names, subtly reinforces the monotheistic conviction of the Israelite people and their identity as those who worship the one true God, even in seemingly mundane records.
* **Zichri (Hebrew, _Zikhri'_):** Meaning "my remembrance" or "remembered of Yahweh." This name carries the profound implication that the individual is not forgotten by God. In a context where many had been displaced and their identities fragmented by exile, a name like Zichri would have served as a quiet but potent reminder that God remembers His covenant, His people, and every individual within His plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jaresiah, and Eliah, and Zichri":** This clause introduces three specific individuals, emphasizing their distinct identities within the larger family unit. The repetitive "and" (Hebrew _waw_ conjunctive) creates a rhythmic listing, typical of genealogies, highlighting the meticulous nature of the record. These are not merely abstract figures but real people whose existence contributed to the continuity of the Benjamite tribe.
* **"the sons of Jeroham":** This phrase establishes the patrilineal descent, a crucial element in Israelite society. Identifying individuals as "sons of" their father was fundamental for determining tribal affiliation, land rights, and social standing. Jeroham serves as the immediate patriarch for these three individuals, anchoring them firmly within a specific branch of the Benjamite lineage and connecting them to the broader family tree outlined in the preceding and succeeding verses.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 8:27, and indeed throughout the genealogical sections of Chronicles, is **Genealogy** itself. This is not merely a list but a structured literary form designed to establish identity, legitimacy, and continuity. The Chronicler employs this device to affirm the tribal structure of Israel, connect the post-exilic community to their pre-exilic heritage, and underscore God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant. The verse also exhibits **Repetition** through the consistent use of the conjunctive "and" to link names, which creates a sense of methodical enumeration and emphasizes the thoroughness of the record. Furthermore, there is an element of **Nominalism**, where the names themselves are significant. As seen in the key word analysis, the meanings embedded within these Hebrew names often carry theological weight, subtly communicating truths about God's character and His relationship with His people, even within what appears to be a dry list.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple list of names in 1 Chronicles 8:27 carries profound theological weight. It affirms God's meticulous care for every individual within His covenant people, demonstrating that no one is forgotten in His grand redemptive plan. The very act of recording these names, even those of individuals who do not feature in major narratives, underscores the divine commitment to preserving a lineage through which His promises would be fulfilled. It speaks to the sovereignty of God in orchestrating history and maintaining the continuity of His people, ultimately pointing towards the coming of the Messiah. These genealogies are not just human records; they are a testament to God's faithfulness across generations, ensuring that the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would endure.

* [Genesis 5:1](/genesis/5-1 "Genesis 5:1 - The Book of the Generations of Adam")
* [Exodus 6:14-27](/exodus/6-14 "Exodus 6:14-27 - Genealogies of Reuben, Simeon, and Levi")
* [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While 1 Chronicles 8:27 might appear to be a mere historical record, it offers profound spiritual insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of meticulous detail, who knows each of us by name and has a place for us in His grand narrative. Just as Jaresiah, Eliah, and Zichri were integral to the lineage of Benjamin, so too are we, as believers, integral members of God's spiritual family, the body of Christ. Our lives, no matter how ordinary they may seem, contribute to the ongoing story of God's redemptive work in the world. This verse encourages us to value our own spiritual heritage, understanding the faithfulness of God through generations and the legacy of faith passed down to us. It invites us to find our identity not just in our earthly lineage, but primarily in our adoption as sons and daughters of God, knowing that our names are eternally recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous record-keeping in genealogies like this verse affirm God's personal knowledge and care for every individual, including us?**
* **In what ways does understanding our spiritual heritage in Christ strengthen our identity and purpose today?**
* **What "small" or "insignificant" details of your life might God be using to advance His larger redemptive plan?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies so prevalent and important in the Bible, especially in Chronicles?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial in the Bible for several reasons, particularly in Chronicles, which was written for a post-exilic community. Firstly, they established **identity and tribal affiliation**, which was vital for land claims, social standing, and participation in religious life after the return from exile (e.g., [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - List of Exiles Who Returned") details those who returned by family). Secondly, they ensured **purity of lineage**, especially for the priestly and Levitical families, to maintain the integrity of temple service. Thirdly, they demonstrated **God's faithfulness** in preserving His covenant people through generations, even through periods of judgment and exile. Finally, and most significantly, these genealogies meticulously traced the line from which the Messiah would come, providing a historical foundation for the fulfillment of God's ultimate redemptive promise.

**What is the significance of the names listed in 1 Chronicles 8:27?**

Answer: While the individuals Jaresiah, Eliah, and Zichri are not prominent figures in biblical narratives, the significance lies in their very inclusion and the meanings of their names. In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried profound theological or aspirational meanings. "Jaresiah" (Yahweh's inheritance/help), "Eliah" (My God is Yahweh), and "Zichri" (remembered of Yahweh) are not random. They reflect a worldview where God is active in human affairs, providing help, demonstrating His sovereignty, and remembering His people. Their presence in the record signifies that every individual, even those seemingly obscure, had a place in God's plan and contributed to the larger tapestry of Israel's history, affirming that God's care extends to all, not just the famous.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous genealogies found in Chronicles, including the specific listing in 1 Chronicles 8:27, find their ultimate fulfillment and purpose in the person and work of Jesus Christ. These lengthy lists, which might seem tedious to a modern reader, were essential for establishing the historical and legal lineage through which God's promises would culminate. They painstakingly trace the human ancestry that would eventually lead to the birth of the Messiah, the one who would perfectly fulfill the covenant made with Abraham and the Davidic covenant. While the Old Testament genealogies focus on physical descent, establishing tribal identity and land rights, in Christ, our "genealogy" is transformed. Through faith in Him, we are adopted into God's family, becoming spiritual descendants of Abraham, regardless of our physical lineage, as powerfully articulated in [Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28-29 - All One in Christ Jesus"). Jesus, the true Son of David and the Lamb of God, fulfills all the hopes and promises embedded in these ancient records, making us "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God" ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection establish a new covenant, where our identity is no longer primarily defined by earthly lineage but by our union with Him, making us children of God by adoption and grace ([Romans 8:14-17](/romans/8-14 "Romans 8:14-17 - Children of God")).

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.