1 Chronicles 9:1

KJV

¶ So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they [were] written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, [who] were carried away to Babylon for their transgression.

KJV (with Strong's)

So all Israel {H3478} were reckoned by genealogies {H3187}; and, behold, they were written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of the kings {H4428} of Israel {H3478} and Judah {H3063}, who were carried away {H1540} to Babylon {H894} for their transgression {H4604}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So all Isra'el was listed by genealogies, and these were recorded in the book of the kings of Isra'el. Then Y'hudah was carried away captive to Bavel because of their unfaithfulness.

Berean Standard Bible

So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies written in the Book of the Kings of Israel. But Judah was exiled to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.

American Standard Version

So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel. And Judah was carried away captive to Babylon for their transgression.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Chronicles 9:1 serves as a pivotal summary and transition within the Chronicler's narrative, concluding the extensive genealogical records of the preceding eight chapters while simultaneously providing the theological rationale for Israel's exile to Babylon. It underscores the meticulous preservation of Israel's tribal and familial identities, even as it starkly reminds the reader that the nation's severe "transgression" led to divine judgment and their removal from the land. This verse thus bridges the past records with the future re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem, setting the stage for the post-exilic focus of the remainder of the book.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a significant turning point in 1 Chronicles. Chapters 1-8 are dedicated almost exclusively to genealogies, tracing the lineage of Israel from Adam through the patriarchs, the twelve tribes, the kings, and particularly the priestly and Levitical families. This meticulous record-keeping establishes the identity and continuity of God's people. 1 Chronicles 9:1 acts as a theological and historical bridge, summarizing the fate of the nation that emerged from these lineages and explaining *why* the community needed to be re-established in Jerusalem. It then immediately transitions into a detailed account of the residents of Jerusalem after the return from exile, emphasizing the roles of priests, Levites, and gatekeepers, thereby setting the stage for the subsequent narrative of King Saul and King David.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for 1 Chronicles 9:1 is the Babylonian Exile, a catastrophic event for ancient Israel. Following centuries of covenant unfaithfulness, idolatry, and social injustice, both the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and later the Southern Kingdom (Judah) were conquered and deported by foreign powers. The Babylonian exile (beginning in 586 BC with the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple) represented the ultimate consequence of Israel's disobedience, as forewarned by the prophets and the Mosaic Law. Culturally, genealogies were paramount in ancient Israel for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, social status, and especially eligibility for priestly and Levitical service. The "book of the kings" likely refers to official state annals, a common feature of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, which served as authoritative historical records.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes of 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Judgment and Consequence**, asserting that the exile was not merely a political misfortune but a direct result of Israel's "transgression" against God's covenant, a theme echoed throughout the prophetic books (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:8-11](/jeremiah/25-8 "Jeremiah 25:8-11 - Seventy Years of Exile")). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Importance of Genealogies and Records**, underscoring their critical role in maintaining Israel's identity, land claims, and religious order, particularly for the returning exiles who needed to re-establish their heritage and roles (as seen in [Ezra 2:59-63](/ezra/2-59 "Ezra 2:59-63 - The Importance of Genealogies for Priestly Claims")). Finally, despite the judgment, the verse subtly points to **God's Enduring Faithfulness and the Preservation of a Remnant**. The very existence of these genealogies and the mention of the "book of the kings" imply a continuity of God's people and His plan, even through the devastating period of exile, foreshadowing the eventual return and the re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem (e.g., [Isaiah 10:20-22](/isaiah/10-20 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant of Israel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Transgression (Hebrew, _maʿal'_):** This term is significant and goes beyond a simple "sin." _Maʿal_ specifically denotes an act of unfaithfulness, treachery, or a breach of trust, particularly in a covenant relationship with God. It often carries the connotation of sacrilege or violating sacred duties, such as those related to the Temple or priestly service (e.g., [Leviticus 5:15](/leviticus/5-15 "Leviticus 5:15 - Transgression Against the Holy Things")). By using _maʿal_, the Chronicler emphasizes that Israel's exile was not merely a political or military defeat, but a profound spiritual consequence of their betrayal of God's covenant and their sacred obligations to Him. It underscores the severity of their unfaithfulness.
* **Reckoned by genealogies (Hebrew, _yaḥaś'_):** The verb _yaḥaś_ means "to be enrolled, to be registered by genealogy, to be listed." Its use here highlights the meticulous and authoritative nature of the genealogical records. This was not a casual listing but a formal, official registration. In post-exilic Israel, these genealogies were crucial for establishing one's tribal identity, land rights, and, most importantly, eligibility for priestly and Levitical service. The phrase emphasizes the Chronicler's concern for the continuity and purity of the Israelite community, even after the upheaval of exile.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies;":** This opening clause summarizes the preceding eight chapters, affirming the comprehensive nature of the genealogical records. It establishes that the entire nation, not just a select few, was meticulously documented according to their family lines. The "¶" (pilcrow) in the KJV often indicates a new paragraph or section, reinforcing the transitional nature of this verse.
* **"and, behold, they [were] written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah,":** This clause points to the authoritative source of these records. The "book of the kings" refers to official historical annals, suggesting that the genealogies were not merely oral traditions but formally preserved, authoritative documents. The mention of "Israel and Judah" acknowledges the historical division of the kingdom but also implies a unified historical narrative, a key theme for the Chronicler who often seeks to present a cohesive "all Israel" identity.
* **"[who] were carried away to Babylon for their transgression.":** This final, crucial clause provides the theological explanation for the exile. It directly links the catastrophic event of the Babylonian captivity to Israel's "transgression" or unfaithfulness. This is not a mere historical fact but a divine judgment, emphasizing God's justice and the consequences of covenant disobedience. This statement frames the entire historical narrative that follows, explaining the need for the re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 9:1 employs several significant literary devices. It functions primarily as a **Transition**, bridging the extensive genealogical lists of chapters 1-8 with the narrative focus on the post-exilic community in Jerusalem that begins in earnest in chapter 9. It also serves as a concise **Summary**, encapsulating both the detailed record-keeping that defines Israel's identity and the devastating judgment of exile. The phrase "for their transgression" introduces a strong **Didactic Tone**, clearly stating the moral and theological reason for the exile, thereby teaching a lesson about covenant obedience. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Contrast**, juxtaposing the meticulous order and preservation of genealogies ("reckoned by genealogies," "written in the book of the kings") with the profound disorder and displacement caused by "transgression" and being "carried away to Babylon." This highlights the tension between God's orderly design for His people and the chaos introduced by human sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological weight of 1 Chronicles 9:1 is immense, connecting the meticulous preservation of Israel's identity to the severe consequences of their covenant unfaithfulness. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty over history, demonstrating that even national catastrophe like the Babylonian exile was not outside His control but rather a righteous act of judgment for their persistent "transgression." Yet, the very act of recording these genealogies, even amidst the judgment, speaks to God's enduring covenant faithfulness and His commitment to preserve a remnant through whom His promises would ultimately be fulfilled. This verse sets the stage for understanding the Chronicler's post-exilic perspective, where the emphasis shifts from the past failures to the future hope and the re-establishment of a purified community centered on the Temple and proper worship in Jerusalem.

* [Leviticus 26:33](/leviticus/26-33 "Leviticus 26:33 - Consequences of Disobedience")
* [Deuteronomy 28:64](/deuteronomy/28-64 "Deuteronomy 28:64 - Scattering Among the Nations")
* [Nehemiah 7:64](/nehemiah/7-64 "Nehemiah 7:64 - Genealogical Purity for Priestly Service")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Chronicles 9:1 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is holy and just, and while He is merciful, He also holds His people accountable for their actions and covenant faithfulness. The "transgression" of Israel, a breach of trust with God, led to devastating consequences, serving as a sober warning against spiritual apathy, idolatry, and disobedience in our own lives. Yet, even in judgment, God's meticulous record-keeping and the preservation of a remnant demonstrate His unwavering faithfulness and His commitment to His redemptive plan. This encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty even amidst difficult circumstances, knowing that He works all things for His purposes. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ, recognizing that our belonging is not based on our perfect performance but on God's enduring grace and covenant.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might our "transgressions" or unfaithfulness today lead to spiritual consequences in our lives or communities?**
* **How does understanding God's justice in the Old Testament deepen our appreciation for His grace and mercy in the New Testament?**
* **What does the Chronicler's emphasis on genealogies teach us about the importance of our spiritual lineage and identity as believers in Christ?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "book of the kings of Israel and Judah" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "book of the kings of Israel and Judah" likely refers to official historical annals or state records maintained by the ancient Israelite and Judean monarchies. These were authoritative documents that chronicled the reigns of kings, significant events, and, as indicated here, genealogical information. The Chronicler's reference to them underscores the historical veracity and official nature of the genealogies he presents. It also highlights his theological agenda: to present a continuous, unified history of "all Israel" even after the kingdom's division, drawing from recognized sources to affirm the legitimacy of the post-exilic community's heritage and its connection to God's covenant promises.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 9:1 details the historical and theological reasons for Israel's exile, its themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The meticulous "reckoning by genealogies" ultimately points to the ultimate and most significant genealogy: that of Jesus Christ, the Son of David and Son of Abraham, through whom God's covenant promises are perfectly fulfilled (as seen in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus")). Jesus is the true Israel, the faithful one who perfectly obeyed God where the nation failed. He bore the "transgression" (the _maʿal_) of His people, not His own, when He became sin for us on the cross ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Through His atoning sacrifice, He offers the ultimate "return from exile" – a spiritual liberation from the bondage of sin and death, bringing His people into a new covenant relationship with God ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The "book of the kings" ultimately finds its culmination in Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, whose eternal reign perfectly fulfills the Davidic covenant and brings about the true and lasting restoration of God's people ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

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 5:25

And they transgressed against the God of their fathers, and went a whoring after the gods of the people of the land, whom God destroyed before them.

1 Chronicles 5:26

And the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and to the river Gozan, unto this day.

Nehemiah 7:64

These sought their register [among] those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.

Ezra 2:59

And these [were] they which went up from Telmelah, Telharsa, Cherub, Addan, [and] Immer: but they could not shew their father's house, and their seed, whether they [were] of Israel:

Jeremiah 52:14

And all the army of the Chaldeans, that [were] with the captain of the guard, brake down all the walls of Jerusalem round about.

Jeremiah 52:15

Then Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried away captive [certain] of the poor of the people, and the residue of the people that remained in the city, and those that fell away, that fell to the king of Babylon, and the rest of the multitude.

Ezra 2:62

These sought their register [among] those that were reckoned by genealogy, but they were not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.