1 Chronicles 8:29

KJV

And at Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon; whose wife's name [was] Maachah:

KJV (with Strong's)

And at Gibeon {H1391} dwelt {H3427} the father {H1} of Gibeon {H1391}{H25}; whose wife's {H802} name {H8034} was Maachah {H4601}:

Complete Jewish Bible

In Giv'on lived the father of Giv'on, whose wife's name was Ma'akhah;

Berean Standard Bible

Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon. His wife’s name was Maacah,

American Standard Version

And in Gibeon there dwelt the father of Gibeon, Jeiel, whose wife’s name was Maacah;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:29, a seemingly brief entry within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin, meticulously records the dwelling of a prominent family head, identified as "the father of Gibeon," and his wife, Maachah, in the significant city of Gibeon. This verse, like many others in the early chapters of 1 Chronicles, serves a vital purpose in preserving the tribal identities, land inheritances, and historical continuity of Israel, particularly for the post-exilic community, underscoring God's meticulous attention to detail in His covenant people's lineage and dwelling places.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the lengthy and detailed genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin, spanning [1 Chronicles 8:1-40](/1_chronicles/8 "1 Chronicles 8 - The Genealogy of Benjamin"). The Chronicler’s primary focus in these chapters is to establish the lineage of the returned exiles, connecting them directly to their ancestral tribes and land. Specifically, [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon") appears within a list of prominent Benjaminite families and their residences, particularly those associated with Jerusalem and its environs. The preceding verses ([1 Chronicles 8:28](/1_chronicles/8-28 "1 Chronicles 8:28 - Benjaminite Dwellings") and following) detail various family heads and their dwelling places, demonstrating the Chronicler's methodical approach to documenting tribal settlement and continuity after the Babylonian exile. The inclusion of specific cities like Gibeon highlights the importance of these locations in the tribal allocation and historical narrative.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Gibeon was a historically significant city located northwest of Jerusalem, known for its strategic position and its unique relationship with Israel. Originally a Hivite city, its inhabitants famously deceived Joshua into making a covenant with them ([Joshua 9:3-27](/joshua/9 "Joshua 9 - The Gibeonite Treaty")). Later, Gibeon became a Levitical city and a high place where the tabernacle was located for a period, notably where Solomon offered sacrifices and received his wisdom ([1 Kings 3:4-5](/1_kings/3-4 "1 Kings 3:4-5 - Solomon's Sacrifice at Gibeon")). For the post-exilic community, the meticulous recording of residents in such key cities was crucial for re-establishing land claims, tribal boundaries, and communal identity. The mention of a "father of Gibeon" indicates a prominent patriarchal figure, likely a clan head or founder of a significant family line, whose presence in Gibeon solidified the Benjaminite claim and presence in this important region.

* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in 1 Chronicles, particularly in its genealogical sections, are profoundly evident in [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon"). Firstly, **Covenant Continuity and Faithfulness** is paramount; the detailed genealogies affirm God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring the preservation of His chosen people through generations, even through periods of exile and dispersion. Secondly, **Identity and Inheritance** is a crucial theme, as these lists provided the returned exiles with a tangible link to their ancestral heritage, confirming their tribal affiliations, land rights, and roles within the restored community. The precise naming of individuals and their dwelling places, even seemingly minor ones, underscores the Chronicler's emphasis on the distinct identity and divinely ordained inheritance of each tribe. Lastly, **Divine Providence in Detail** is subtly highlighted; the meticulous recording of individual names and families, down to "the father of Gibeon" and his wife Maachah, suggests that God's overarching plan encompasses every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, affirming His sovereign involvement in the minute details of His people's history and lives. This echoes the broader biblical truth that God knows and cares for each person within His grand narrative, as seen in passages like [Psalm 139:16](/psalms/139-16 "Psalm 139:16 - God's Knowledge of Our Days").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gibeon (Hebrew, _Giv'on_):** Meaning "hill" or "hilly place," reflecting its geographical location. Gibeon was a significant city in Benjaminite territory, known for its strategic importance and its role in Israelite history. Its mention here confirms the continued Benjaminite presence and influence in this area, which was vital for the post-exilic community re-establishing their claims.
* **father of Gibeon (Hebrew, _'av Giv'on_):** This idiomatic phrase does not mean the literal biological father of the city, but rather the "head" or "chief" of the family or clan associated with Gibeon. It signifies a prominent patriarch, a leading figure whose lineage was strongly identified with the city, indicating his authority, influence, and perhaps even his role in its resettlement or leadership.
* **Maachah (Hebrew, _Ma'akah_):** A relatively common female name in the Old Testament, meaning "to press" or "oppression," though its precise etymological significance for personal names is often debated. The inclusion of the wife's name is notable in a genealogy, which often focuses solely on male lines. This highlights her significance within this particular family unit, perhaps indicating her status, lineage, or simply the Chronicler's thoroughness in documenting key family connections. Several women in the Bible bear this name, including a wife of David ([2 Samuel 3:3](/2_samuel/3-3 "2 Samuel 3:3 - Maachah, David's Wife")) and a queen mother ([1 Kings 15:2](/1_kings/15-2 "1 Kings 15:2 - Maachah, Mother of Abijam")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And at Gibeon dwelt":** This phrase establishes the geographical location of the family being described. Gibeon, as noted, was a historically and strategically important city within the tribal territory of Benjamin. The verb "dwelt" (יָשַׁב, _yashav_) implies a settled residence, indicating a permanent and established presence of this family in the city.
* **"the father of Gibeon":** This is the central figure of the verse, identified not by a personal name but by his patriarchal role and association with the city. As discussed in the Key Word Analysis, this denotes a prominent clan head or chief resident, signifying his leadership and the importance of his lineage within the community of Gibeon. This emphasizes the family's deep roots and established status in the city.
* **"whose wife's name [was] Maachah":** The specific mention of the wife's name, Maachah, is a distinctive detail in a genealogical list primarily focused on male lines. While her specific identity beyond her name is not given here, her inclusion underscores the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping and potentially highlights her own lineage or importance within the family unit. It also serves to fully identify the patriarch by his marital connection, providing a more complete picture of the family.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon") and throughout the early chapters of 1 Chronicles is **Genealogy**. This systematic listing of ancestors and descendants serves not merely as a record but as a theological statement, establishing the continuity of God's covenant people and their rightful inheritance. The Chronicler employs **Repetition** of names and patterns in these lists, reinforcing tribal identities and the meticulous nature of the record-keeping. The specific mention of "the father of Gibeon" and his wife Maachah also demonstrates **Emphasis** on key family units and their geographical associations, highlighting their significance within the larger tribal structure. Furthermore, the use of the title "father of Gibeon" rather than a personal name is a form of **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where a part (the father/head) represents the whole (the family/clan of Gibeon), emphasizing the patriarchal structure and the identity of the family through its leader and its association with a specific place. This meticulous detail, even for seemingly minor figures, also reflects the Chronicler's **Nominalism**, the belief that names and their precise recording hold inherent power and significance, testifying to God's knowledge and care for each individual within His grand historical narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon") may seem like a mere detail in a long list, it powerfully contributes to the broader theological tapestry of 1 Chronicles. It reinforces the Chronicler's overarching message of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly in maintaining the lineage and land inheritance of Israel. The meticulous preservation of these records, even down to individual families and their dwelling places in significant cities like Gibeon, assures the post-exilic community of their legitimate place within God's ongoing plan and their connection to the historical narrative of salvation. It speaks to a God who is attentive to the minute details of His people's lives, ensuring continuity and identity even through periods of disruption and exile. This divine attention to detail provides a foundation for understanding God's providential care for every individual within His grand story.

* [Genesis 10:32](/genesis/10-32 "Genesis 10:32 - The Table of Nations") - Illustrates the biblical tradition of detailed genealogies for establishing national and tribal identities.
* [Ezra 2:59-63](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59-63 - Those Who Could Not Prove Their Lineage") - Highlights the practical importance of genealogical records for the returned exiles, especially concerning priestly duties and land claims.
* [Nehemiah 7:5](/nehemiah/7-5 "Nehemiah 7:5 - Nehemiah's Discovery of the Genealogy") - Shows the continued reliance on and investigation of genealogical records for the purpose of re-establishing the community in Jerusalem.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In an age that often prioritizes the grand and the spectacular, a verse like [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon") serves as a profound reminder of God's meticulous attention to detail and the inherent value He places on every individual. While we may not find our names in a biblical genealogy, this verse assures us that our lives, our families, and even our dwelling places are known to God. It encourages us to recognize that our seemingly small contributions or obscure existences are not overlooked in God's grand narrative of redemption. Just as the "father of Gibeon" and Maachah were significant enough to be recorded, so too are we, as part of God's spiritual family, known and valued. This perspective fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, connecting us to a rich spiritual heritage and reminding us that God works through generations, preserving His people and His plan through individual lives. It challenges us to live with intentionality, knowing that our lives contribute to a story far greater than ourselves, a story meticulously woven by a God who cares about every detail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Chronicler's meticulous attention to genealogical detail, even for seemingly minor figures, deepen your understanding of God's character?**
* **In what ways does knowing that God values individual lives and their specific contexts (like dwelling places) encourage you in your own life and circumstances?**
* **How can we, in our modern context, honor and preserve our spiritual heritage and the "lineage of faith" passed down through generations?**
* **What might it mean to be a "father" or "mother" of your community or household in a spiritual sense, contributing to its identity and well-being?**

### FAQ

**Why are biblical genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 8:29, so important?**

Answer: Biblical genealogies are far more than mere lists of names; they serve several crucial theological and practical purposes. They establish **historical continuity**, linking generations and demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people. For the post-exilic community, they were vital for **re-establishing tribal identities, land inheritances, and priestly legitimacy** after the return from Babylon. Genealogies also highlight **God's meticulous attention to detail**, showing that every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, has a place in His overarching plan. Ultimately, they lay the groundwork for the **Messianic lineage**, tracing the family tree through which the promised Savior would come, as seen in the genealogies of Jesus in [Matthew 1](/matthew/1 "Matthew 1 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3](/luke/3 "Luke 3 - The Genealogy of Jesus").

**Who was "the father of Gibeon" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "the father of Gibeon" is an idiomatic expression in Hebrew, typically referring to the **prominent patriarch, chief, or founder of the family/clan associated with the city of Gibeon**. It does not mean he literally fathered the city itself. In the context of 1 Chronicles 8, which details the lineage of Benjamin, this individual was a key Benjaminite figure whose family was strongly identified with and likely held significant influence in Gibeon. While his personal name isn't given here, his title emphasizes his leadership and the established presence of his lineage in this important city.

**What is the significance of Maachah's name being included in this genealogy?**

Answer: The inclusion of a wife's name in a biblical genealogy, which often focuses solely on male lines, is notable and suggests her particular significance within this family unit. While the text doesn't provide specific details about this Maachah, her mention indicates the Chronicler's thoroughness in documenting key family connections. It might imply her own prominent lineage, her role in the family's identity, or simply that she was a significant figure in the "father of Gibeon's" household. The name Maachah was relatively common in the Old Testament, borne by several women of varying prominence, including a wife of King David ([2 Samuel 3:3](/2_samuel/3-3 "2 Samuel 3:3 - Maachah, David's Wife")) and a queen mother ([1 Kings 15:2](/1_kings/15-2 "1 Kings 15:2 - Maachah, Mother of Abijam")), suggesting it was a recognized and perhaps esteemed name.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Chronicles 8:29](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29 - The Father of Gibeon") is a seemingly minor genealogical detail, it finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. The meticulous record-keeping of Israel's lineage, culminating in the precise identification of families and their dwelling places, foreshadows the perfect and divinely ordained genealogy of Jesus Christ, through whom God's covenant promises are ultimately fulfilled. Just as the "father of Gibeon" and Maachah were integral to the continuity of the Benjaminite tribe, so every individual in the lineage of Abraham and David was a link in the chain leading to the Messiah. The inclusion of seemingly obscure figures and their wives in these ancient records points to Christ's inclusive kingdom, where not only the prominent but also the "least of these" are known and valued by God ([Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - The Least of These")). Furthermore, the emphasis on land and inheritance within these genealogies finds its spiritual reality in Christ, who is our true inheritance and through whom we receive an imperishable, undefiled, and unfading inheritance in heaven ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). The continuity of God's plan, meticulously preserved through generations, culminates in Christ, the "seed" of Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Seed is Christ")) and the "Son of David" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Jesus, Son of David")), who brings all of God's promises to their glorious "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). Thus, even a verse detailing a family in Gibeon ultimately points to the comprehensive and inclusive work of Christ, the true head of God's eternal family.

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 9:35

¶ And in Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon, Jehiel, whose wife's name [was] Maachah:

1 Chronicles 9:38

And Mikloth begat Shimeam. And they also dwelt with their brethren at Jerusalem, over against their brethren.