1 Chronicles 2:46

1 Chronicles 2:46 continues the extensive genealogical records of the tribe of Judah, focusing specifically on the descendants of Caleb, son of Hezron. This verse highlights Ephah, identified as Caleb's concubine, and lists her offspring: Haran, Moza, and Gazez. The repetition "and Haran begat Gazez" serves to clarify the lineage, indicating that the Gazez mentioned is the son of Haran, thereby affirming the direct line of descent through Haran from Ephah and Caleb.

Context

This verse is embedded within the detailed genealogies of 1 Chronicles chapters 1-9, which serve as a vital historical record for ancient Israel. These lists trace the lineage of the twelve tribes, establishing tribal identity, land inheritance rights, and most importantly, preserving the lineage leading to King David and ultimately to the Messiah. Caleb, a prominent figure known for his faith and leadership during the Exodus and conquest of Canaan (Numbers 13:30), had multiple wives and concubines, whose children were considered legitimate members of the family and tribe. This verse follows the mention of Caleb's other wives and children earlier in the chapter (1 Chronicles 2:18).

Key Themes

• Meticulous Record-Keeping: The inclusion of concubines and their offspring underscores the thoroughness of biblical genealogies, ensuring that all legitimate family lines within the tribes were preserved.
• Inclusion of All Descendants: Children born to concubines, while sometimes having a different status than those born to primary wives, were nonetheless part of the family structure and tribal lineage, reflecting the societal norms of the time.
• Clarity of Lineage: The specific clarification "Haran begat Gazez" demonstrates the precision of these records. It ensures that the reader understands the exact relationship, indicating that Gazez was a grandson of Ephah (through Haran) rather than another direct son.

Linguistic Insights

The term "concubine" (Hebrew: pilegesh, פִּילֶגֶשׁ) refers to a secondary wife. While her status might have differed from a primary wife, her children were fully recognized as legitimate and often held rights to inheritance, though sometimes distinct from those of the primary wife's offspring. The structure of the genealogy, particularly the clarification "Haran begat Gazez," is typical of Hebrew genealogical lists, which sometimes list grandsons alongside sons to provide a complete picture of a family's descendants.

Practical Application

While a genealogical list may seem dry, it carries profound significance:

• God's Attention to Detail: Even in seemingly minor figures or secondary relationships, God's Word meticulously records details, reminding us that every individual and their place in history matters to Him.
• Value of Every Life: The inclusion of all descendants, regardless of their mother's status, subtly reminds us that every person has a place within God's grand narrative and that He values all lives.
• Foundation for God's Promises: These detailed family records served as the bedrock for understanding tribal identity, land distribution, and, most importantly, the fulfillment of covenant promises, particularly the lineage leading to the Messiah (Matthew 1:1). They affirm God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen lines.