1 Chronicles 2:55

And the families of the scribes which dwelt at Jabez; the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, [and] Suchathites. These [are] the Kenites that came of Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab.

And the families {H4940} of the scribes {H5608} which dwelt {H3427}{H3427} at Jabez {H3258}; the Tirathites {H8654}, the Shimeathites {H8101}, and Suchathites {H7756}. These {H1992} are the Kenites {H7017} that came {H935} of Hemath {H2574}, the father {H1} of the house {H1004} of Rechab {H7394}.

the families of scribes that lived in Ya'betz, the Tir'atim, the Shim'atim and the Sukhatim. These are the Kinim, who came from Hamat, father of the house of Rekhav.

Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Atroth-beth-joab, half the Manahathites, the Zorites, and the clans of the scribes who lived at Jabez—the Tirathites, Shimeathites, and Sucathites. These are the Kenites who came from Hammath, the father of the house of Rechab.

And the families of scribes that dwelt at Jabez: the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, the Sucathites. These are the Kenites that came of Hammath, the father of the house of Rechab.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 2:55 KJV provides a fascinating glimpse into the social and professional structures within ancient Israel, particularly concerning the role of scribes and the integration of non-Israelite groups into the community.

Context

This verse appears within the lengthy genealogical records of 1 Chronicles, which meticulously trace the lineages of Israel, especially focusing on the tribe of Judah, from which King David descended. Following the detailed family lines of Caleb, a prominent figure, verse 55 introduces specific families identified as "families of the scribes." This inclusion highlights not just bloodline but also professional roles and geographical settlements, specifically at Jabez. The subsequent identification of these scribal families as "the Kenites" who originated from "Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab," adds a layer of historical and cultural significance, connecting them to a well-known group within Israel's broader history.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Integration and Inclusion: The verse powerfully illustrates God's capacity to integrate diverse groups into His people. The Kenites, though not originally Israelites by descent, were known for their association with Israel (e.g., Judges 1:16) and here are shown to hold significant, learned positions as scribes. This demonstrates a broader scope of God's covenant people beyond strict ethnic boundaries.
  • The Importance of Scribes: It underscores the vital role of scribes in ancient Israel. These individuals were responsible for copying, preserving, and interpreting the Law and other sacred texts, ensuring the transmission of knowledge and spiritual heritage across generations. Their meticulous work was crucial for the spiritual health of the nation.
  • Faithfulness and Heritage: The connection to the house of Rechab is particularly noteworthy. The Rechabites were famed for their strict adherence to their ancestral vows, living a disciplined, nomadic life and abstaining from wine (Jeremiah 35:8). This lineage highlights a heritage of steadfast commitment and obedience, which God honored.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "scribes" is sopherim, denoting individuals skilled in writing, copying, and often interpreting legal and religious texts. They were highly respected and essential for the administration and spiritual life of the nation. The "Kenites" (Hebrew: Qeyniy) were a nomadic people, often associated with metalworking, who had a long-standing, though sometimes complex, relationship with Israel, dating back to Jethro, Moses' father-in-law.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that God uses people from all backgrounds and with diverse gifts for His purposes. Just as the Kenites, known for their nomadic lifestyle, became settled scribes, so too can individuals find new callings and contribute significantly to God's kingdom. The example of the Rechabites' unwavering commitment to their principles serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of steadfastness and integrity in living out our faith, even in changing circumstances. It also highlights the enduring value of preserving and understanding God's Word, a task entrusted to those who faithfully study and transmit its truths, ensuring that future generations can learn from and live by divine wisdom.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Kings 10:15 (5 votes)

    ¶ And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab [coming] to meet him: and he saluted him, and said to him, Is thine heart right, as my heart [is] with thy heart? And Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give [me] thine hand. And he gave [him] his hand; and he took him up to him into the chariot.

  • Judges 1:16 (5 votes)

    And the children of the Kenite, Moses' father in law, went up out of the city of palm trees with the children of Judah into the wilderness of Judah, which [lieth] in the south of Arad; and they went and dwelt among the people.

  • Judges 4:11 (4 votes)

    Now Heber the Kenite, [which was] of the children of Hobab the father in law of Moses, had severed himself from the Kenites, and pitched his tent unto the plain of Zaanaim, which [is] by Kedesh.

  • Jeremiah 35:2 (4 votes)

    Go unto the house of the Rechabites, and speak unto them, and bring them into the house of the LORD, into one of the chambers, and give them wine to drink.

  • Jeremiah 35:8 (4 votes)

    Thus have we obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab our father in all that he hath charged us, to drink no wine all our days, we, our wives, our sons, nor our daughters;

  • Jeremiah 35:19 (4 votes)

    Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever.

  • 1 Samuel 15:6 (3 votes)

    And Saul said unto the Kenites, Go, depart, get you down from among the Amalekites, lest I destroy you with them: for ye shewed kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up out of Egypt. So the Kenites departed from among the Amalekites.