1 Chronicles 1:44

And when Bela was dead, Jobab the son of Zerah of Bozrah reigned in his stead.

And when Bela {H1106} was dead {H4191}, Jobab {H3103} the son {H1121} of Zerah {H2226} of Bozrah {H1224} reigned {H4427} in his stead.

After Bela died, Yovav the son of Zerach from Botzrah took his place as king.

When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place.

And Bela died, and Jobab the son of Zerah of Bozrah reigned in his stead.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 1:44 is a concise verse detailing the succession of power within the kingdom of Edom, specifically mentioning Jobab as the successor to King Bela. This verse is part of the extensive genealogical records found in the first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles, which meticulously trace the lineage of various peoples, culminating in the tribes of Israel.

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles, particularly its early chapters, serves as a crucial historical and genealogical record for the post-exilic community of Israel. Its primary purpose was to establish the legitimate lineage of the priesthood, the monarchy, and the tribes, reminding the returning exiles of their heritage and God's faithfulness through history. Verses like 1 Chronicles 1:44, which list the early kings of Edom, parallel similar accounts found in the book of Genesis. This inclusion demonstrates the Chronicler's comprehensive approach to biblical history, acknowledging surrounding nations within God's broader historical narrative.

Key Themes

  • Genealogical Record: The verse's fundamental purpose is to maintain a precise historical and family record, emphasizing the importance of lineage in ancient societies and for the biblical narrative.
  • Succession: It illustrates the natural order of royal succession, where one ruler passes away and another takes their place, a common theme throughout biblical and ancient Near Eastern history.
  • God's Sovereignty in History: Even when detailing the rulers of nations outside Israel, the inclusion of such details implicitly points to God's overarching plan and control over all of human history and the rise and fall of kingdoms.

Linguistic Insights

The names "Bela," "Jobab," and "Zerah" are proper nouns, identifying specific individuals in the Edomite lineage. "Bozrah" (Hebrew: ื‘ึธึผืฆึฐืจึธื”, Botzrah) was a prominent city in Edom, often mentioned as a significant stronghold or capital, lending geographical specificity to the record.

Related Scriptures

This verse is nearly identical to its counterpart in Genesis 36:33, which states, "And Jobab the son of Zerah of Bozrah reigned in his stead." This parallel highlights the Chronicler's reliance on and confirmation of earlier biblical texts, reinforcing the historical accuracy and continuity of the biblical narrative.

Practical Application

While a genealogical entry might seem distant, it reminds us that every life, every period of history, and every succession of leadership is noted and significant in God's grand design. It underscores the Bible's commitment to historical detail and its belief that even seemingly minor facts contribute to the larger story of God's interaction with humanity. For believers, it encourages a perspective that sees God's hand at work even in the mundane details of history and the lives of those seemingly outside the direct covenant line, preparing the way for future events and ultimately, the coming of Jesus Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 34:6 (4 votes)

    The sword of the LORD is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, [and] with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea.

  • Isaiah 63:1 (3 votes)

    ยถ Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.

  • Amos 1:12 (2 votes)

    But I will send a fire upon Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah.

  • Micah 2:12 (2 votes)

    ยถ I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of [the multitude of] men.

  • Jeremiah 49:13 (2 votes)

    For I have sworn by myself, saith the LORD, that Bozrah shall become a desolation, a reproach, a waste, and a curse; and all the cities thereof shall be perpetual wastes.