1 Chronicles 4:36

1 Chronicles 4:36 presents a list of names: "And Elioenai, and Jaakobah, and Jeshohaiah, and Asaiah, and Adiel, and Jesimiel, and Benaiah,"

Context

This verse is found within the extensive genealogies that open the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically detailing the descendants of the tribe of Simeon. The Chronicler, writing primarily for the post-exilic community in Jerusalem, meticulously records these lineages. These lists were crucial for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, and the right to serve in priestly and levitical roles after the return from Babylonian captivity. The names in this verse represent specific individuals within the Simeonite families, part of a broader record of their settlements and expansion mentioned in the preceding verses (1 Chronicles 4:24-35).

Key Themes

• The Importance of Lineage: The meticulous recording of names underscores the biblical emphasis on ancestry and the continuity of God's covenant people. Each name represents a link in a chain that connects the present generation to their historical roots and God's promises.
• God's Faithfulness: Despite periods of exile and dispersion, God preserved the tribal identities of Israel, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3). These genealogies affirm that the remnant returning to the land were indeed the legitimate heirs of the promises.
• Divine Order and Detail: The inclusion of such detailed lists, even seemingly obscure ones, highlights God's attention to every individual and His meticulous ordering of history and His people.

Linguistic Insights

While a simple list of names, some of these names carry significant Hebrew meanings, reflecting the hopes or circumstances of their parents:

• Elioenai (אֱלִיוֹעֵינַי): Means "My eyes are toward the Lord" or "Unto the Lord are my eyes." This name expresses reliance and hope in God.
• Benaiah (בְּנָיָהוּ): Means "Yahweh has built" or "The Lord has built." This common biblical name often signifies God's hand in establishing or prospering.

These meanings, though not explicitly commented on in the text, subtly reinforce the overarching theme of God's involvement in the lives and lineage of His people.

Practical Application

Even though this verse is a list of names, it offers valuable lessons:

• Every Individual Matters: The inclusion of these names, many of whom are otherwise unknown, reminds us that every person holds significance in God's eyes and in His grand redemptive plan. God remembers and values each individual.
• Roots and Identity: Understanding our spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God throughout history can strengthen our own identity in Him. Just as the Israelites found their identity in their lineage, believers today find theirs in being children of God through Christ (John 1:12).
• God's Meticulous Care: The detailed record-keeping in these chapters assures us that God is a God of order and detail, actively involved in the seemingly small and ordinary aspects of life and history.