1 Chronicles 8:32

And Mikloth begat Shimeah. And these also dwelt with their brethren in Jerusalem, over against them.

And Mikloth {H4732} begat {H3205} Shimeah {H8039}. And these also {H637} dwelt {H3427} with their brethren {H251} in Jerusalem {H3389}, over against them {H5048}.

Miklot fathered Shim'ah. In contrast with some of their kinsmen, they and their families lived in Yerushalayim.

and Mikloth, who was the father of Shimeah. These also lived alongside their relatives in Jerusalem.

And Mikloth begat Shimeah. And they also dwelt with their brethren in Jerusalem, over against their brethren.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 8:32 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 8:32 is a concise verse detailing a specific lineage within the tribe of Benjamin: "And Mikloth begat Shimeah. And these also dwelt with their brethren in Jerusalem, over against them." This verse is part of an extensive genealogical record, a hallmark of the book of 1 Chronicles.

Historical and Cultural Context

The book of 1 Chronicles, written largely after the Babylonian exile, served a crucial purpose for the returning Jewish community. It aimed to re-establish their identity, heritage, and tribal connections, particularly their right to the land and the legitimacy of the priesthood and monarchy. Genealogies, like the one found in 1 Chronicles chapter 8, meticulously trace family lines, linking the post-exilic community back to their patriarchal roots and the original twelve tribes of Israel. The mention of "Jerusalem" is significant, as it was the spiritual and political heart of the nation, and its re-population after the exile was vital for national restoration. The phrase "dwelt with their brethren in Jerusalem" emphasizes the communal aspect and the re-establishment of tribal presence in the capital city.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Importance of Lineage and Identity: This verse, like many others in 1 Chronicles, underscores the biblical emphasis on family heritage and tribal affiliation. For ancient Israel, knowing one's ancestry was fundamental to understanding one's place within God's covenant people, determining land rights, and even priestly duties.
  • Continuity of God's People: Despite periods of exile and dispersion, the detailed genealogies demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people and maintaining their historical connection.
  • Settlement in Jerusalem: The specific mention of dwelling in Jerusalem highlights the re-establishment of the capital as a populated and thriving center after the exile, a key step in the nation's spiritual and physical recovery. This indicates a structured community living in close proximity.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew verb for "begat" (ื™ึธืœึทื“, yalad) is standard in biblical genealogies, simply denoting lineal descent. The phrase "over against them" (ืœึฐืขึปืžึผึธืชึธื, le'ummatam) suggests proximity or being opposite to them, implying a structured living arrangement within Jerusalem where family groups or clans were situated near each other. While the names Mikloth and Shimeah themselves do not carry profound theological weight, their inclusion signifies the meticulous nature of these historical records.

Practical Application

While genealogies might seem dry to a modern reader, 1 Chronicles 8:32 offers several enduring lessons:

  • Value of Heritage: It reminds us of the importance of understanding our own heritage, not just genetically, but spiritually. We are part of a larger story of faith.
  • God's Faithfulness Through Generations: The preservation of these detailed records testifies to God's enduring commitment to His people across countless generations. He remembers and sustains His covenant promises.
  • Importance of Community and Place: Just as Mikloth and Shimeah's descendants dwelt "with their brethren in Jerusalem," we are called to live in community, contributing to the health and vitality of our spiritual and physical homes. It speaks to the importance of belonging and mutual support within the body of believers, as highlighted in Romans 12:5.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 9:38

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