1 Chronicles 9:38

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And Mikloth {H4732} begat {H3205} Shimeam {H8043}. And they also dwelt {H3427} with their brethren {H251} at Jerusalem {H3389}, over against their brethren {H251}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

Mikloth was the father of Shimeam. They too lived alongside their relatives in Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 9:38 is a concise genealogical entry within a larger record of the inhabitants of Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. It specifically notes Mikloth as the father of Shimeam, and emphasizes that their descendants, like others listed, resided in Jerusalem alongside their kinsmen. This verse, though brief, serves to affirm the continuity of Israelite lineage, highlight the crucial theme of restoration and repopulation of the holy city, and underscore the importance of communal identity and kinship in the post-exilic rebuilding of the nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a detailed genealogical account spanning [1 Chronicles 9:35-44](/1_chronicles/9-35 "1 Chronicles 9:35-44 - Genealogy of Saul's Lineage"). This section is nearly identical to the genealogy found in [1 Chronicles 8:29-38](/1_chronicles/8-29 "1 Chronicles 8:29-38 - Another Genealogy of Saul's Lineage"), indicating the Chronicler's deliberate emphasis on the lineage of Jeiel, often associated with the Gibeonites or a Benjaminite family, and specifically the ancestral line leading to King Saul. The repetition underscores the importance of preserving these specific family records, even after the profound disruption of the Babylonian exile. The broader [chapter 9](/1_chronicles/9 "1 Chronicles 9 - Inhabitants of Jerusalem and Genealogies") focuses on the re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem and the re-institution of temple service, with these genealogies validating the identity and rights of the returning exiles.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for [1 Chronicles 9](/1_chronicles/9 "1 Chronicles 9 - Post-Exilic Jerusalem") is the post-exilic period, following the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity. During this time, the meticulous recording of genealogies was paramount for several reasons: to confirm tribal identities, establish claims to ancestral land, validate eligibility for priestly or Levitical service, and affirm the legitimacy of the returned community as the true historical people of God. The phrase "dwelt with their brethren at Jerusalem" points to the critical process of repopulating the holy city, which had been desolate, and signifies the fulfillment of God's promises of restoration. This communal resettlement was essential for rebuilding the temple, re-establishing religious practices, and reconstituting the social fabric of the nation.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Mikloth and Shimeam in Jerusalem") contributes to several overarching themes within [1 Chronicles](/1_chronicles/1 "The Book of 1 Chronicles"): **Genealogical Continuity and Identity** is central, as the detailed naming of individuals like Mikloth and Shimeam ensures that the post-exilic community could trace its roots back through generations, affirming its unbroken connection to the covenant people. This provided a sense of belonging and legitimacy. Another significant theme is **Restoration and Dwelling in Jerusalem**, highlighting God's faithfulness in gathering His scattered people back to their spiritual and national center, as prophesied (e.g., [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - Promises of Restoration")). Finally, the emphasis on dwelling "with their brethren" and "over against their brethren" underscores the theme of **Community and Kinship**. It speaks to the vital importance of communal living, mutual support, and shared purpose among the families and tribes, essential for the arduous task of rebuilding a fractured nation and re-establishing a covenant community centered on God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Dwelt (Hebrew, _yashav'_):** The verb יָשַׁב (_yashav_) fundamentally means "to sit down," "to remain," or "to dwell." In the context of [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Dwelling in Jerusalem"), its use signifies a settled, established residence. It's not merely a temporary encampment but a permanent re-establishment of life in Jerusalem. This term carries significant weight in the post-exilic narrative, indicating the successful return and re-inhabitation of the land promised by God, a sign of stability and divine favor after a period of displacement.
* **Over against (Hebrew, _neged'_):** The Hebrew preposition נֶגֶד (_neged_) literally translates to "in front of," "opposite," "corresponding to," or "in the presence of." In this specific genealogical context, "over against their brethren" does not imply opposition or conflict. Instead, it denotes proximity, a designated living area, or a spatial arrangement where these families resided in relation to other kinsmen. It suggests an organized and communal resettlement, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the returning community and the deliberate structuring of their living arrangements within Jerusalem, reinforcing the idea of shared space and mutual presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Mikloth begat Shimeam."**: This initial clause serves as a standard genealogical entry, linking two specific individuals in a direct father-son relationship. In the ancient Near East, such precise lineage records were crucial for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and inheritance rights. For the Chronicler, this detail contributes to the meticulous tracing of family lines, particularly those associated with significant figures like King Saul, ensuring the continuity of Israel's history and the legitimacy of its post-exilic inhabitants.
* **"And they also dwelt with their brethren at Jerusalem,"**: This clause shifts from individual lineage to the communal reality of the post-exilic return. The phrase "they also" connects Mikloth and Shimeam's descendants to the broader group of returnees who settled in Jerusalem. The act of "dwelling" signifies re-establishment and permanence. The location, "at Jerusalem," is profoundly significant, marking the successful repopulation of the holy city, the spiritual and political heart of Israel, after its desolation during the exile. Dwelling "with their brethren" emphasizes the communal nature of this return, highlighting solidarity and shared purpose.
* **"over against their brethren."**: This concluding phrase further specifies the nature of their dwelling. As discussed in the key word analysis, "over against" (Hebrew: _neged_) indicates proximity or a designated living area in relation to other family groups. It reinforces the image of an organized community, where families settled in close proximity to their kinsmen, fostering mutual support and a strong sense of shared identity and purpose in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the nation. It underscores the communal, rather than isolated, nature of the resettlement.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Literary Devices") and its broader context is **Genealogy** itself, functioning as a foundational literary and theological tool. The meticulous listing of names, often appearing repetitive, serves to establish historical continuity, legitimate claims to land and status, and underscore the unbroken covenant relationship between God and His people, even through periods of exile and disruption. Within this genealogical framework, **Repetition** is also evident, particularly in the phrase "with their brethren" and "over against their brethren." This repetition is not redundant but emphasizes the crucial theme of communal solidarity, kinship, and the re-establishment of a unified society in Jerusalem. The Chronicler uses these devices to affirm identity, demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His people, and highlight the importance of community in the restoration process.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Theological Connections"), though a seemingly minor genealogical note, resonates with profound theological themes. It speaks to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises, particularly the restoration of His people to their land and the rebuilding of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The meticulous record-keeping underscores the divine preservation of Israel's identity and lineage, affirming that the post-exilic community was indeed the legitimate inheritors of God's promises. Furthermore, the emphasis on dwelling "with their brethren" highlights the biblical importance of community, kinship, and mutual support as essential for the flourishing of God's people and the re-establishment of true worship. This small verse, therefore, quietly testifies to God's sovereign hand in history, ensuring the continuity of His redemptive plan and the gathering of His people.

* [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Abrahamic Covenant") - God's promise to make Abraham a great nation, fulfilled through the preservation of lineage.
* [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - Promise of Return from Exile") - Prophecy of return from exile and restoration to the land, which 1 Chronicles 9:38 illustrates the fulfillment of.
* [Psalm 133:1](/psalms/133-1 "Psalm 133:1 - Unity of Brethren") - Emphasizes the blessing and pleasantness of brethren dwelling together in unity, a theme echoed in the communal dwelling of 1 Chronicles 9:38.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a genealogical entry might seem distant from contemporary life, [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Reflection and Application") offers rich insights for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder of the value of spiritual heritage. Just as the Israelites meticulously tracked their physical lineage to affirm their identity and place, we are called to appreciate our spiritual lineage—the "cloud of witnesses" who have gone before us, the rich history of God's faithfulness throughout the ages, and the unbroken line of faith that connects us to Christ. This verse also profoundly underscores the importance of Christian community. The emphasis on dwelling "with their brethren" is a timeless call to fellowship, mutual support, and shared life in the body of Christ. In a world that often promotes individualism, this verse reminds us that our identity in Christ is often best lived out within the context of a local church, where we can encourage, challenge, and grow alongside fellow believers. Ultimately, 1 Chronicles 9:38, set against the backdrop of post-exilic restoration, is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. Even after periods of disruption, judgment, or personal hardship, God is capable of gathering, restoring, and re-establishing His people for His purposes. This offers profound hope that God can bring order out of chaos, rebuild what is broken, and faithfully lead us back to our true home and purpose in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding your spiritual heritage (the history of God's people) impact your sense of identity and purpose as a believer?**
* **In what ways does your current Christian community reflect the "dwelling with brethren" described in this verse, and how can you contribute more to that sense of unity and mutual support?**
* **Considering God's faithfulness in restoring Israel after exile, what areas in your own life or community are in need of God's restorative touch, and how does this verse encourage you to trust Him?**

### FAQ

**Why are genealogies, like the one in 1 Chronicles 9:38, so prominent in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies are crucial in the Bible for several reasons. They establish historical continuity, demonstrating God's faithfulness across generations and preserving the identity of His covenant people. For the Israelites, they affirmed tribal affiliations, validated claims to land, and confirmed eligibility for priestly or royal service. In the post-exilic context of [1 Chronicles 9](/1_chronicles/9 "1 Chronicles 9 - Post-Exilic Genealogies"), they were vital for the returning exiles to prove their heritage and legitimate their place in the rebuilt community of Jerusalem. Ultimately, these genealogies also serve a redemptive purpose, meticulously tracing the lineage through which the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would eventually come, fulfilling God's promises.

**What is the significance of the phrase "over against their brethren" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "over against their brethren" (Hebrew: _neged 'ahêhem_) does not imply opposition but rather signifies proximity, a designated dwelling area, or a spatial arrangement where these families lived in relation to other kinsmen. The Hebrew word _neged_ means "in front of," "opposite," or "corresponding to." In the context of [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Meaning of 'Over Against'"), it emphasizes an organized, communal resettlement within Jerusalem. It highlights that the returning exiles were not scattered but intentionally settled in close proximity to their fellow Israelites, reinforcing the themes of community, kinship, and mutual support essential for rebuilding their nation and spiritual life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Chronicles 9:38](/1_chronicles/9-38 "1 Chronicles 9:38 - Christ-Centered Fulfillment") is a seemingly minor genealogical note, it finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. The meticulous preservation of lineage throughout the Old Testament, exemplified here, culminates in the genealogies of Jesus found in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - Genealogy of Jesus"), demonstrating His legitimate claim as the promised Messiah, the Son of David, and the true heir of all God's covenant promises. Furthermore, the theme of restoration and the re-gathering of God's people to Jerusalem, so central to this verse, is perfectly fulfilled in Christ. He is the one who gathers a new, spiritual Israel—the Church—not to a physical city, but into Himself, the true temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus, the Temple")). The emphasis on dwelling "with their brethren" foreshadows the new community formed by Christ, where believers from every tribe and tongue are united as one body in Him ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). Through His atoning work, Jesus brings about the ultimate restoration, reconciling humanity to God and to one another, establishing a spiritual Jerusalem where all His redeemed "dwell with their brethren" in eternal fellowship ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heaven and New Earth")).

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 8:32

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