1 Chronicles 2:51

Salma the father of Bethlehem, Hareph the father of Bethgader.

Salma {H8007} the father {H1} of Bethlehem {H1035}, Hareph {H2780} the father {H1} of Bethgader {H1013}.

Salma the father of Beit-Lechem and Haref the father of Beit-Gader.

Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim, Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth-gader.

Salma the father of Beth-lehem, Hareph the father of Beth-gader.

Commentary

Context of 1 Chronicles 2:51

This verse is part of an extensive genealogical record found in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically tracing the descendants of Judah, the fourth son of Jacob. The Chronicler's primary purpose in these genealogies was to establish the lineage of David and, by extension, the continuity of God's covenant promises, particularly concerning the kingship and the future Messiah. Following detailed lists of Judah's sons and their families, this verse pinpoints two individuals, Salma and Hareph, as the "fathers" or founders of specific towns. These meticulous records were crucial for establishing tribal identity, land rights, and historical continuity for the returning exiles.

Meaning and Significance

The phrase "father of" in this context (Hebrew: 'ab) indicates not merely a biological parent but a founder, leader, or principal inhabitant of a place. It signifies the one who established or was prominent in the early development of a community.

  • Salma the father of Bethlehem: This is a highly significant detail. Bethlehem, meaning "house of bread," was a small town in Judah that gained immense importance as the birthplace of King David. Even more profoundly, it was prophesied to be the birthplace of the Messiah (Matthew 2:1). Salma's identification as its "father" underscores the deep historical roots of this crucial location within God's redemptive plan.
  • Hareph the father of Bethgader: Bethgader is less prominent in biblical narratives than Bethlehem. Its name likely means "house of a wall" or "house of a fence," suggesting a fortified or enclosed settlement. While not as famous, its inclusion highlights the Chronicler's comprehensive approach to recording the settlements and their founders within the tribal territories, providing a detailed historical and geographical context for the people of Israel.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence in Lineage: The meticulous detail of these genealogies, including the founding of towns, illustrates God's sovereign hand guiding the history and development of His people, setting the stage for future events like the birth of the Messiah.
  • Historical Continuity and Identity: For the post-exilic community, these records provided a vital link to their past, affirming their heritage, land claims, and covenant relationship with God.
  • Significance of Seemingly Small Places: The mention of Bethlehem, a seemingly insignificant town, being established through a specific lineage, foreshadows its immense future importance as the birthplace of both David and Jesus.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 2:51, like many genealogical passages, reminds us that God works through specific people, places, and times to accomplish His grand purposes. Even seemingly minor details or obscure places are part of His intricate design. It encourages us to recognize the historical faithfulness of God and to trust that He is meticulously orchestrating events, even those we might consider insignificant, to fulfill His ultimate plan. Our own "roots" and seemingly small contributions can be part of a much larger divine narrative.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 4:4 (3 votes)

    And Penuel the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah. These [are] the sons of Hur, the firstborn of Ephratah, the father of Bethlehem.

  • Ruth 2:4 (2 votes)

    ¶ And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The LORD [be] with you. And they answered him, The LORD bless thee.

  • Genesis 35:19 (2 votes)

    And Rachel died, and was buried in the way to Ephrath, which [is] Bethlehem.

  • Matthew 2:6 (2 votes)

    And thou Bethlehem, [in] the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

  • Matthew 2:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

  • Ruth 4:11 (2 votes)

    And all the people that [were] in the gate, and the elders, said, [We are] witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem:

  • John 7:42 (2 votes)

    Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?