1 Chronicles 8:7

KJV

And Naaman, and Ahiah, and Gera, he removed them, and begat Uzza, and Ahihud.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Naaman {H5283}, and Ahiah {H281}, and Gera {H1617}, he removed {H1540} them, and begat {H3205} Uzza {H5798}, and Ahihud {H284}.

Complete Jewish Bible

those who carried them off were Na'aman, Achiyah and Gera): he fathered 'Uzah and Achichud.

Berean Standard Bible

Naaman, Ahijah, and Gera, who carried them into exile and who was the father of Uzza and Ahihud.

American Standard Version

and Naaman, and Ahijah, and Gera, he carried them captive; and he begat Uzza and Ahihud.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 8:7, embedded within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin, meticulously records a segment of this lineage: "And Naaman, and Ahiah, and Gera, he removed them, and begat Uzza, and Ahihud." This concise verse, while seemingly a mere list of names, encapsulates the Chronicler's profound theological commitment to preserving the historical and spiritual continuity of Israel's tribes, even through periods of disruption and displacement, thereby demonstrating God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant people as their family lines persisted despite significant adversity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral component of the sprawling genealogical records that constitute the opening nine chapters of 1 Chronicles. Specifically, chapter 8 is dedicated to the detailed lineage of the tribe of Benjamin, a tribe of considerable significance due to its connection to Israel's first king, Saul, and its prominent role in the post-exilic community of Judah. The Chronicler's meticulous listing of names, including those like Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera, and their descendants, serves a crucial purpose: to establish the identity, heritage, and land rights of the returned exiles, connecting them directly to their ancestral roots and the covenant promises. The phrase "he removed them" introduces a subtle yet profound disruption within an otherwise straightforward "begat" sequence, highlighting a period of displacement or exile. However, this disruption is immediately followed by the continuation of the line, underscoring the resilience of the lineage and reinforcing the Chronicler's overarching message of divine preservation and continuity despite human upheaval, a theme pervasive throughout [the genealogies of 1 Chronicles](/1_chronicles/1 "1 Chronicles 1 - Genealogies from Adam to Israel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Genealogies held paramount importance in ancient Israelite society, functioning as foundational documents for establishing tribal identity, validating claims to land inheritance, determining priestly eligibility, and confirming social standing. For the post-exilic community, to whom the Chronicler primarily wrote, these records were indispensable for re-establishing a sense of identity, belonging, and continuity with their pre-exilic heritage after the devastating Babylonian exile. The mention of individuals being "removed" (Hebrew: *hoglam*) likely refers to a form of forced migration or deportation, a common and brutal occurrence in the ancient Near East, especially during periods of conquest and empire-building. While the specific historical event for Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera is not detailed, such removals were a stark reality for many Israelite families, as exemplified by the [exile of the northern tribes by Assyria](/2_kings/17 "2 Kings 17 - Israel's Exile to Assyria") and the subsequent [Babylonian captivity of Judah](/2_kings/25 "2 Kings 25 - The Fall of Jerusalem and Exile to Babylon"). The Chronicler's inclusion of such a detail, immediately followed by the continuation of the lineage, subtly affirms God's providential hand in preserving His people even through severe historical dislocations and national crises.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme powerfully underscored by 1 Chronicles 8:7 is the **Preservation of Lineage and Continuity**. Despite the disruptive act of "removal," the genealogical record immediately pivots to "begat Uzza, and Ahihud," demonstrating the unwavering continuation of the family line. This highlights God's faithfulness in maintaining the tribal identity of Israel, a crucial theological point for a community seeking to rebuild after exile. Secondly, the verse subtly points to **Divine Providence Amidst Adversity**. The "removal" implies hardship, loss, and displacement, yet it does not terminate the lineage. This illustrates that even through periods of national or personal upheaval, God's overarching plan for His people endures, and life and purpose continue. This resilience is a recurring motif throughout Israel's history, from their [sojourn in Egypt and subsequent exodus](/exodus/1 "Exodus 1 - Israel in Egypt and the Exodus") to their return from exile. Finally, the meticulous recording of individual names, even those who experienced "removal," emphasizes the **Significance of Every Individual** within God's grand narrative. No one is truly lost or forgotten in the divine record, reflecting God's intimate knowledge and care for each person, a truth beautifully articulated in passages like [Psalm 139:16](/psalms/139-16 "Psalm 139:16 - God's Knowledge of Our Days").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **removed (Hebrew, גָּלָה, _gâlâh'_):** This verb, appearing here in the Hiphil stem (הוֹגְלָם, _hoglam_), is derived from the primitive root *gâlâh*, which fundamentally means "to uncover" or "to reveal." However, in the Hiphil, it frequently acquires the causative meaning "to carry away," "to go into exile," or "to deport." Its usage in 1 Chronicles 8:7 strongly implies a forced relocation, banishment, or deportation. While the specific historical context for the removal of Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera is not provided, the term is consistently used elsewhere in the Old Testament to describe the devastating experience of exile, particularly the Assyrian and Babylonian deportations. Its presence here signifies a significant disruption and hardship in the lives of these individuals or their immediate families, yet the Chronicler's immediate follow-up with "and begat" powerfully emphasizes the enduring nature of the lineage despite such profound upheaval.
* **begat (Hebrew, יָלַד, _yâlad'_):** This primitive root means "to bear young" or, causatively, "to beget." In genealogical contexts like 1 Chronicles 8:7, it signifies the act of fathering children, thereby continuing the family line. The inclusion of this verb immediately after the mention of "removal" creates a striking contrast, highlighting the continuity of life and lineage even in the face of disruptive events. It underscores the theme of preservation, demonstrating that despite the challenges of displacement or exile, the family line, and by extension, the tribal identity, was not extinguished but continued to flourish, fulfilling God's sovereign plan for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Naaman, and Ahiah, and Gera":** These are three distinct individuals identified as part of the Benjaminite genealogy. As is typical in such lists, their specific roles or individual narratives are not elaborated upon beyond their names. Their inclusion, however, speaks to the Chronicler's commitment to a detailed and comprehensive record of the tribe's descendants, ensuring that even those who faced hardship or obscurity were not forgotten in the divine and historical record.
* **"he removed them":** This is the most poignant and historically suggestive phrase in the verse. The subject "he" is unspecified, leaving room for interpretation regarding the agent of removal. It could refer to an external conquering power (e.g., an Assyrian or Babylonian king responsible for deportations), an internal tribal decision leading to migration, or a more general statement about their displacement due to various circumstances common in that tumultuous era. The verb "removed" (as analyzed above) denotes a forced or significant relocation, introducing a note of hardship, loss, or disruption into the otherwise straightforward "begat" sequence.
* **"and begat Uzza, and Ahihud":** This clause immediately follows the mention of "removal," providing a crucial counterpoint and theological affirmation. Despite the displacement, hardship, or loss experienced by Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera, their lineage continued through their descendants, Uzza and Ahihud. This highlights the remarkable resilience of the family line and, implicitly, God's providential hand in preserving the tribal identity and continuity of His people, even through periods of severe disruption and adversity. It is a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenant promises.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's primary literary device throughout this section is **Genealogy**, which serves as the fundamental structural and thematic framework for establishing identity, continuity, and historical connection. Within this genealogical framework, 1 Chronicles 8:7 employs striking **Juxtaposition** or **Contrast** by placing the disruptive act of "he removed them" immediately before the affirmation of continued lineage, "and begat Uzza, and Ahihud." This stark contrast powerfully emphasizes the resilience of the Benjaminite line and, by extension, the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel despite periods of profound adversity and displacement. The **Conciseness** of the genealogical style itself is also a significant literary feature, packing substantial historical and theological information into a few carefully chosen words, leaving much unsaid but implying profound realities of displacement, survival, and divine faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 8:7, though appearing as a dry list of names, carries profound theological weight, underscoring the biblical emphasis on continuity, identity, and God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people, even through periods of profound disruption. The "removal" of individuals highlights the tumultuous nature of Israel's history, marked by exile and displacement, yet the immediate continuation of the lineage ("begat Uzza, and Ahihud") powerfully testifies to God's preserving hand. This meticulous record-keeping reminds us that God's plan unfolds through generations, valuing each individual's place within the larger story of redemption. It teaches that even when circumstances seem to uproot or dislocate us, God's purposes for His people remain steadfast, ensuring that the thread of His redemptive narrative is never broken. This genealogical preservation ultimately points to the faithfulness of God in bringing forth the promised Messiah.

* [Ezra 2:59](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59 - Importance of Genealogies for Returnees")
* [Nehemiah 7:61](/nehemiah/7-61 "Nehemiah 7:61 - Genealogies and Identity")
* [Romans 11:29](/romans/11-29 "Romans 11:29 - God's Irrevocable Gifts and Calling")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief mention of "removal" in 1 Chronicles 8:7, followed by the immediate continuation of the lineage, offers a powerful lens through which to view life's inevitable disruptions. It reminds us that even when we experience displacement, loss, or significant change—whether physical, relational, vocational, or spiritual—our story does not end there. God's meticulous attention to detail in recording these seemingly minor figures, even those who faced hardship and were "removed," speaks to His profound and intimate care for every individual. It encourages us to recognize that our lives, with all their challenges and transitions, are intricately woven into a larger, divine tapestry of redemption. Just as the Benjaminite line persisted through adversity, so too can our faith endure and even flourish through trials, trusting that God's purposes for us and His church continue beyond any immediate "removal" or setback. We are part of a grand spiritual heritage, connected to those who came before us and those who will follow, all under God's sovereign and preserving care. This perspective invites us to find hope and resilience in the face of life's uncertainties, knowing that God's faithfulness transcends all circumstances.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping, even of seemingly minor figures like those "removed" in this verse, challenge our perception of what God considers important in the grand narrative of salvation history?**
* **In what ways might the "removal" of individuals in this verse speak to periods of disruption, displacement, or significant change in our own lives or communities, and how can we find hope in the continuation of God's purposes despite such challenges?**
* **What significance does understanding our spiritual lineage or heritage—the long line of faithful believers who have gone before us—hold for our faith journey and sense of identity today? How does it encourage us to persevere?**

### FAQ

**What does "he removed them" specifically mean for Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly state who "he" is or the precise nature of the removal. The Hebrew verb *hoglam* (from *gâlâh*) strongly implies a forced relocation or deportation, similar to the exiles experienced by Israel and Judah at the hands of foreign powers. It could refer to an act by a conquering nation, an internal tribal decision leading to migration, or a general statement of their displacement from their original settlement due to various historical circumstances. The Chronicler's primary interest is not in the agent or the specific event, but in the fact of their removal and, more importantly, the subsequent continuation of their lineage, emphasizing the resilience and enduring nature of the tribe despite such upheaval, a pattern seen throughout [Israel's history](/deuteronomy/4-27 "Deuteronomy 4:27 - Scattered Among Nations").

**Why are these specific names mentioned if they were "removed" or displaced?**

Answer: The inclusion of these names, even with the note of their "removal," serves several crucial purposes within the genealogical record. Firstly, it ensures the completeness and accuracy of the tribal lineage, demonstrating that even branches of the family that experienced hardship or relocation were still part of the larger Benjaminite identity. For the post-exilic community, these genealogies were vital for re-establishing land claims, tribal affiliations, and a sense of continuity with their heritage after their return from captivity, as seen in [Ezra's records](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - The Return from Exile"). Secondly, it subtly highlights God's faithfulness. Despite the disruption implied by "removal," the lineage continued ("begat Uzza, and Ahihud"), underscoring that God's plan for His people persists even through adversity. It shows that no part of the family tree, no matter how seemingly obscure or disrupted, is forgotten in God's meticulous record of His people and their place in the unfolding of His redemptive purposes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 8:7 appears as a simple genealogical entry, its underlying themes of lineage, disruption, and continuity find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The meticulous preservation of Israel's tribal lines, even through periods of "removal" and exile, points forward to the ultimate lineage that culminates in Jesus Christ. His own genealogy, as recorded in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-17 "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"), includes individuals who faced immense hardship, displacement, and even moral failings, yet God's redemptive plan faithfully progressed through them. The "removal" of Naaman, Ahiah, and Gera can be seen as a shadow of the ultimate "removal" of the Son of God, who was "cut off from the land of the living" ([Isaiah 53:8](/isaiah/53-8 "Isaiah 53:8 - He Was Cut Off From the Land of the Living")) through His crucifixion. Yet, this ultimate disruption was not the end; rather, it led to the glorious continuation of God's redemptive purpose through His resurrection, bringing forth new spiritual life and a new lineage of believers. In Christ, all who believe, regardless of earthly lineage or past "removals" and displacements, are grafted into God's family, forming a new spiritual heritage where there is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, but all are one in Him, the true Seed of Abraham ([Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28-29 "Galatians 3:28-29 - All One in Christ Jesus")).

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.