TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Azel had six sons, whose names are these, Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these were the sons of Azel.
Complete Jewish Bible
Atzel had six sons, whose names were: 'Azrikam, Bokhru, Yishma'el, Sh'aryah, 'Ovadyah and Hanan; all these were sons of Atzel.
Berean Standard Bible
And Azel had six sons, and these were their names: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. These were the sons of Azel.
American Standard Version
And Azel had six sons, whose names are these: Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these were the sons of Azel.
World English Bible Messianic
Azel had six sons, whose names are these: Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these were the sons of Azel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Azel had sixe sonnes, whose names are these, Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ismael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these are the sonnes of Azel.
Young's Literal Translation
And to Azel are six sons, and these their names: Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these are sons of Azel.
In the KJVVerse 10,660 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 9 verses 35–44
35 ¶ And in Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon, Jehiel, whose wife's name was Maachah:
36 And his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, and Kish, and Baal, and Ner, and Nadab,
37 And Gedor, and Ahio, and Zechariah, and Mikloth.
38 And Mikloth begat Shimeam. And they also dwelt with their brethren at Jerusalem, over against their brethren.
39 And Ner begat Kish; and Kish begat Saul; and Saul begat Jonathan, and Malchishua, and Abinadab, and Eshbaal.
40 And the son of Jonathan was Meribbaal: and Meribbaal begat Micah.
41 And the sons of Micah were, Pithon, and Melech, and Tahrea, and Ahaz.
42 And Ahaz begat Jarah; and Jarah begat Alemeth, and Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begat Moza;
43 And Moza begat Binea; and Rephaiah his son, Eleasah his son, Azel his son.
44 And Azel had six sons, whose names are these, Azrikam, Bocheru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan: these were the sons of Azel.
These verses are the very same with Ch1 8:29-38, giving an account of the ancestors of Saul and the posterity of Jonathan. There it is the conclusion of the genealogy of Benjamin; here it is an introduction to the story of Saul. We take the repetition as we find it; but if we admit that there are in the originals, especially in these books, some errors of the transcribers, I should be tempted to think this repetition arose from a blunder. Some one, in copying out these genealogies, having written those words, Ch1 9:34 (These dwelt in Jerusalem), cast his eye on the same words, Ch1 8:28 (These dwelt in Jerusalem), and so went on with what followed there, instead of going on with what followed here; and, when he perceived his mistake, was loth to make a blot in his book, and so let it stand. We have a rule in our law, Redundans non nocet - Redundancies do no harm.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 35–44. Public domain.
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Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON FIRST CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The Chronicles also speak about the tabernacle because a temple of the Lord had not yet been built by either Samuel or David. The text also adds that that the holy services were held in the tabernacle. Worship was observed at that time according to the number of the days of the week. For it also says, “and their kindred who were in their villages were obliged to come in every seven days, in turn, to be with them.” With regard to the holy utensils it says, “Some of them had charge of the utensils of service, for they were required to count them when they were brought in and taken out. Others of them were appointed over the furniture, and over all the holy utensils, also over the choice flour, the wine, the oil, the incense and the spices.” And about the priests it says, “Others, of the sons of the priests, prepared the mixing of the spices.” With regard to the tomb of Saul the Chronicles gives us much information, and in the Book of Kings itself we read that his bones were gathered and buried in the land of Jabesh.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
There is abundant information in the books of Chronicles which were written to continue the books of the Kings and to preserve the memory of such important events. The first book begins with a genealogy that sets out to demonstrate how the human race came from a single man. Since it focuses only on the single kingdom of Judah, it can tell us about its cities and the villages, and from where they took their names. Here we come to know Nathan, from whom the blessed Luke constructed the beginning of his genealogy of our Lord and Savior, Son of David and Solomon’s brother4 on his mother’s side: “The following children were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimeah, Shobab, Nathan and Solomon, that is, the four children he fathered with Bersabea, daughter of Ammiel.” And Rechab6 herself, who is mentioned in many books of Scripture, is said to have come from the tribe of Judah.It also clearly explains why Reuben lost his birthright and Joseph gained it and also, finally, the reason why the tribe of Judah obtained the highest honor: “The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. He was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, so that he is not enrolled in the genealogy according to the birthright; though Judah became prominent among his brothers and a ruler came from him, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph.” It also explains the reason why such a great honor was conceded to Joseph. By the will of God Judah had the dignity of receiving the Lord who was born from him according to the flesh. This is the sense tacitly expressed with the words “a leader from him.” Indeed the passage seems to assert that not only the kings of the earth derived from Judah, but also the eternal king himself who had no beginning and will never end.
It also describes the situation of the tribes beyond the Jordan, those of Reuben and Gad, and even the tribes of Manasseh which later were received into those of the Hagarites and the Itureans, and talks about the tribes of the Naphiseans, and all those peoples who entered into conflict with them. In addition the text relates how they fought and won, and made the Hagarites flee. And it also reports the reason for the victory: “When they received help against them, the Hagarites and all who were with them were given into their hands, for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their entreaty because they trusted in him.” It also describes the amount of the spoils of war: “They captured their livestock: 50, of their camels, 250, sheep, 2, donkeys and 100, captives. Many were slain because the war was from God. And they lived in their territory until the exile.”
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
QUESTIONS ON 1 CHRONICLES, PROLOGUE
The genealogy of the priests and the Levites comes after this. It relates that Zadok, who was high priest at the time of David, had been the eleventh from Aaron; that Azariah, nephew of Zadok, had been the first to receive the priestly anointing in the temple built by Solomon. Among them there was also Jehozadak, who was brought to Babylon as a war prisoner. Jesus9 was his son, a high priest as well, who delivered the people from bondage together with Zerubbabel, and built a temple for the Lord. Here we also learn that Korah, who revolted against the great Moses, was a nephew of Isaar, son of Caath and brother of Amram, Aaron’s and Moses’ father. According to this lineage he was related to the first legislator. But he himself paid in the desert for his errors, although his children did not share the punishment of their father. From here Samuel13 came and then Aeman, who intoned Psalms and was a nephew of the prophet Samuel. In fact he was the son of Joel, son of Samuel. On the other hand, Asaph, one of the singers, came from the lineage of Gerson, son of Levi and brother of Caath. Aetham, who also belonged to the group of the singers, had Merari, the third son of Levi, as great-grandfather.The text also explains the difference between the priests and the Levites. It relates that the Levites were initiated into all the ministries of the holy altar of God: “But Aaron and his sons made offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense, doing all the work of the most holy place, to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.” It seems to me, in fact, that this book was written after the return from Babylon. For this reason it also talks about the bondage and explains its cause: “So all Israel was enrolled by genealogies; and these are written in the book of the Kings of Israel. And Judah was taken into exile in Babylon because of their unfaithfulness. Now the first to live again in their possessions in their towns were Israelites, priests, Levites, and temple servants.” These accounts show that the book was begun after the captivity. Indeed no historian ever relates facts that happened afterwards, but what happened before or during his times. And actually only the prophets have the power to foretell the future. In addition it says that also those who had inhabited that land before them had been enslaved. And actually many of them still live with them: the Canaanites, Chettites, Jebusites, who had been their companions in such a misfortune. Also the priests and the Levites were brought into captivity with the Israelites. I believe that those who were called “the saints’ servants” were then called Nathinim. Many of them, in fact, consecrated themselves to the ministries of the priests and the Levites. There were among them also those who were entrusted with the carrying of the water, the gathering of wood and other necessary duties. Indeed, if it was imposed to the Gabaonites, who were foreigners, to follow Joshua in the praises and to perform some works as porters or carpenters, this task was even more the duty of the Israelites. As a proof of this I have found in the interpretation of Hebrew names that this name means “house of Iaō,” that is, “of the God who is.” The text, in fact, mentions the children of Israel and among them Judah and Benjamin, and Ephraim18 and Manasseh. It also mentions the priests and the Levites, who inhabited those cities. About the Korēnites it says that they derived from Korah. It also says that among them there had been the guardians of the temple of God as well, and it seems that this custom had been introduced by Samuel and David. “All these, who were chosen as gatekeepers at the thresholds, were two hundred twelve. They were enrolled by genealogies in their villages. David and the prophet Samuel established them in their office of trust. So they and their descendants were in charge of the gates of the house of the Lord, that is, the house of the tent, as guards. The gatekeepers were on the four sides, east, west, north, and south.”
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 9:44 presents a concise yet profoundly significant genealogical entry, meticulously enumerating the six sons of Azel: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. This verse is an integral part of the larger genealogical record in 1 Chronicles, specifically detailing the families who returned to and resettled Jerusalem and its surrounding areas after the Babylonian exile. Its inclusion underscores the Chronicler's deep concern for the re-establishment of the community, the preservation of Israel's tribal and familial identity, and the continuity of God's covenant people.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
While seemingly a straightforward genealogical entry, 1 Chronicles 9:44 employs several subtle yet effective literary techniques. The most prominent is Enumeration, the systematic and exhaustive listing of names, which serves to establish a comprehensive, precise, and authoritative historical record. This device, common throughout biblical genealogies, emphasizes completeness and the meticulous preservation of lineage. There is also a clear instance of Repetition in the concluding phrase "these [were] the sons of Azel," which echoes the initial statement, creating a distinct and concise frame for the list of names and ensuring no ambiguity about the relationship being documented. Furthermore, the very presence and detailed nature of such genealogies function as a broader Literary Framework for the Chronicler's overarching theological message, underscoring the vital themes of continuity, identity, and divine faithfulness through the meticulous preservation of human lineage. The names themselves, as highlighted in the key word analysis, often contain inherent Symbolism or implicit theological statements, even if not explicitly elaborated upon in the immediate text.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The seemingly dry list of names in 1 Chronicles 9:44 is, in fact, profoundly theological. It serves as a powerful testament to God's meticulous and unwavering care for His people, not merely as a collective nation, but as distinct individuals within families. The preservation of these detailed genealogies, especially after the devastating trauma of the Babylonian exile, speaks volumes about God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant promises. It demonstrates unequivocally that He never forgets His people, their heritage, or the intricate details of their existence. This verse, therefore, is far more than a mere historical record; it is a quiet yet profound affirmation of God's enduring commitment to His chosen nation and the precise, sovereign way He orchestrates even the seemingly minor details of their history to fulfill His grand redemptive plan.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a contemporary world often characterized by a focus on individual achievement, immediate gratification, and a disconnect from historical roots, 1 Chronicles 9:44 invites us to pause and consider the profound significance of our heritage, the indispensable role of community, and God's sovereign, meticulous hand in the intricate details of our lives. Just as God meticulously recorded the lineage of Azel's sons, He knows and cares for every individual, every family, and every generation that has ever lived. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our individual lives are not isolated events but are part of a larger, divinely orchestrated narrative, connecting us intimately to those who came before us and those who will come after. It encourages us to cultivate a deep appreciation for the unwavering faithfulness of God spanning generations, to understand our unique and vital place within His grand redemptive story, and to live in a way that not only honors the rich legacy of faith passed down to us but also actively builds a spiritual heritage for future generations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are genealogies so prevalent and important in the Bible, especially in books like 1 Chronicles?
Answer: Genealogies are profoundly crucial in the Bible for a multitude of reasons, extending far beyond mere historical record-keeping. Primarily, they establish identity and continuity, meticulously linking individuals and communities to their ancestral roots and ensuring the preservation of tribal, family, and national heritage. For ancient Israel, these records were absolutely vital for verifying land rights, confirming tribal affiliations, and, critically, establishing priestly legitimacy (as vividly illustrated in Ezra 2:62, where those lacking proper genealogical proof were excluded from the priesthood). Theologically, genealogies powerfully demonstrate God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the foundational promise to Abraham to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:2) and the enduring promise of an eternal dynasty to David (2 Samuel 7:16). Ultimately, and perhaps most significantly, they meticulously trace the sacred lineage leading directly to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, thereby affirming His rightful claim to the Davidic throne and His fulfillment of all prophetic expectations (Matthew 1:1-17).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly mundane listing of Azel's sons in 1 Chronicles 9:44, like all biblical genealogies, finds its ultimate significance and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The meticulous preservation of these family lines, even through periods of devastating exile and societal disruption, underscores God's unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan, which culminates in the Incarnation of His Son. Every name, every generation, served as an indispensable link in the divinely ordained chain leading to the promised Seed who would crush the serpent's head (Genesis 3:15). Jesus is the ultimate heir to the covenant promises made to Abraham, being the singular "Seed" through whom all nations would be blessed (Galatians 3:16), and the rightful descendant of David, born of his lineage according to the flesh (Romans 1:3). His human lineage, meticulously recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38), confirms His divine qualification as the long-awaited Messiah. Thus, Azel's sons, though distant figures in a long list, are part of the vast, intricate tapestry of human history that God sovereignly wove to bring forth the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), securing salvation for all who believe.