1 Chronicles 2:42

Now the sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel [were], Mesha his firstborn, which was the father of Ziph; and the sons of Mareshah the father of Hebron.

Now the sons {H1121} of Caleb {H3612} the brother {H251} of Jerahmeel {H3396} were, Mesha {H4337} his firstborn {H1060}, which was the father {H1} of Ziph {H2128}; and the sons {H1121} of Mareshah {H4762} the father {H1} of Hebron {H2275}.

The sons of Kalev the brother of Yerachme'el: Mesha his firstborn, who was the father of Zif; and the sons of Mareshah the father of Hevron.

The sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel: Mesha his firstborn, who was the father of Ziph, and Mareshah his second son, who was the father of Hebron.

And the sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel were Mesha his first-born, who was the father of Ziph; and the sons of Mareshah the father of Hebron.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 2:42 is part of the extensive genealogical records found in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically detailing the lineage of Caleb, the son of Hezron, within the tribe of Judah. This verse identifies Mesha as Caleb's firstborn, who became the progenitor of the town of Ziph, and further traces connections through Mareshah to the significant city of Hebron.

Context

The books of Chronicles, particularly the initial chapters, are rich with genealogies. These lists were not merely historical curiosities but vital records for the Israelite community, especially after their return from Babylonian exile. They served to re-establish tribal identities, affirm claims to land and inheritance, and confirm priestly and royal lineages. The "Caleb" mentioned here is Caleb, the son of Hezron, and brother of Jerahmeel (1 Chronicles 2:25). It is important to distinguish him from the more well-known Caleb, son of Jephunneh, one of the faithful spies who entered Canaan (Numbers 13:30).

The phrases "father of Ziph" and "father of Hebron" indicate a significant role beyond mere biological paternity. In biblical genealogies, "father of" can denote the founder, chief, or leading clan associated with a particular town or region. Hebron, in particular, was a pivotal city in Judah, known as the burial place of the patriarchs and a key location in Israel's history.

Key Themes

  • Lineage and Identity: The meticulous recording of these family lines underscores the profound importance of heritage, tribal affiliation, and a sense of continuity in Israelite society. It highlights how individuals were understood in relation to their community and ancestry.
  • God's Faithfulness Through Generations: Even in what may seem like a dry list of names, the ongoing preservation of these family lines demonstrates God's consistent faithfulness to His covenant promises, ensuring the continuation of a people through whom His divine plan would unfold.
  • Historical and Geographical Connections: These genealogies not only trace family trees but also implicitly map out the settlement and development of various regions within Judah, linking individuals and clans to specific towns like Ziph and Hebron.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "father" ('ab) when used in constructions like "father of Ziph" often carries a broader meaning than just direct biological parentage. It can signify the founder, progenitor, or the leading figure/clan responsible for the establishment or prominence of a particular place or group. This usage emphasizes the close historical and social ties between the individuals listed and the development of these geographical locations.

Practical Application

While 1 Chronicles 2:42 may appear to be a simple list of names, it offers subtle yet profound insights:

  • Every Life Matters: It reminds us that God, who inspired the meticulous recording of these ancient lineages, pays attention to every individual life and family line within His grand narrative. No one is overlooked in His divine plan.
  • Our Place in God's Story: Just as these individuals were part of a larger historical and redemptive story, we too are part of God's ongoing work in the world. Our heritage, both physical and spiritual, connects us to a purpose greater than ourselves.
  • The Value of Roots: Understanding our spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God through generations can provide a strong foundation for our own faith, identity, and sense of belonging within the community of believers.

Thus, this verse, though seemingly focused on ancient family trees, quietly testifies to the enduring nature of God's covenant and His detailed care for His people throughout history.

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Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 7:25 (2 votes)

    The children of Gibeon, ninety and five.

  • Nehemiah 7:38 (2 votes)

    The children of Senaah, three thousand nine hundred and thirty.

  • Ezra 2:21 (2 votes)

    The children of Bethlehem, an hundred twenty and three.

  • Ezra 2:35 (2 votes)

    The children of Senaah, three thousand and six hundred and thirty.

  • 1 Samuel 26:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, [which is] before Jeshimon?

  • Romans 8:29 (2 votes)

    ¶ For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:23 (2 votes)

    And he took Geshur, and Aram, with the towns of Jair, from them, with Kenath, and the towns thereof, [even] threescore cities. All these [belonged to] the sons of Machir the father of Gilead.