1 Chronicles 4:4

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.

And Penuel {H6439} the father {H1} of Gedor {H1446}, and Ezer {H5829} the father {H1} of Hushah {H2364}. These are the sons {H1121} of Hur {H2354}, the firstborn {H1060} of Ephratah {H672}, the father {H1} of Bethlehem {H1035}.

P'nu'el fathered Geder, and 'Ezer fathered Hushah. These are the sons of Hur the firstborn of Efratah, the father of Beit-Lechem.

Penuel was the father of Gedor, and Ezer was the father of Hushah. These were the descendants of Hur, the firstborn of Ephrathah and the father of Bethlehem.

and Penuel the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah. These are the sons of Hur, the first-born of Ephrathah, the father of Beth-lehem.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 4:4 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 4:4 continues the extensive genealogical record of the tribe of Judah, focusing on key individuals who played a significant role in Israel's early history and the establishment of important locations. This verse specifically names Penuel and Ezer as sons of Hur, highlighting their lineage and connection to the historically vital city of Bethlehem.

Context

The first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles are largely dedicated to genealogies, tracing the lineage of Israel from Adam through the various tribes. This meticulous record served a crucial purpose for the post-exilic community: to re-establish identity, validate land claims, and confirm priestly and royal lines. Chapter 4 narrows the focus to the descendants of Judah, the tribe from which both King David and the Messiah would come. Within this detailed list, the mention of Hur and Bethlehem elevates this seemingly simple genealogical entry to one of considerable historical and theological significance.

Key Figures and Themes

  • Hur: The verse identifies Penuel and Ezer as "the sons of Hur." Hur is a notable figure in Israelite history, particularly for his association with Moses and Aaron during the Exodus. He is famously remembered for holding up Moses' hands during the battle against Amalek (Exodus 17:12). He was also the grandfather of Bezalel, the chief artisan chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:2). His inclusion here underscores the importance of this lineage within the tribe of Judah.
  • Ephratah and Bethlehem: The phrase "the firstborn of Ephratah, the father of Bethlehem" strongly connects Hur's lineage to the city of Bethlehem. Ephratah (or Ephrath) is often used synonymously with Bethlehem or refers to the region surrounding it, known for its fertility. Bethlehem is profoundly significant in biblical history as the birthplace of King David and, prophetically, the birthplace of the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1). This genealogical link emphasizes the deep roots of the Davidic line in this particular region.
  • Genealogical Purpose: The Chronicler's detailed genealogies serve to affirm God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people and the specific lines through which His promises would be fulfilled. Even seemingly obscure names contribute to the grand narrative of God's plan.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Ephratah" (אֶפְרָתָה, 'ephrātāh) is a key geographical marker. While it can refer to a person, its context here clearly ties it to the region or clan associated with Bethlehem. The phrase "father of Bethlehem" indicates either that Hur was an ancestor of the inhabitants of Bethlehem, or that his clan was instrumental in its establishment or prominence. This highlights the ancient practice of identifying individuals through their connection to places or prominent descendants.

Practical Application and Significance

This verse, part of a long list of names, reminds us of God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign plan unfolding through generations. It teaches us:

  1. The Importance of Heritage: Our past and our lineage, though sometimes complex, are part of God's larger story. Every individual, even those in a list, plays a part in His divine tapestry.
  2. God's Faithfulness in Lineage: The preservation of these specific lines, especially the one leading to Bethlehem, demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His promises, culminating in the birth of the Savior.
  3. Significance in the "Mundane": What might appear as a dry list of names holds profound historical and theological weight. God works through ordinary people and seemingly ordinary details to accomplish extraordinary purposes, reminding us that no part of His word is without meaning.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 4:18 (4 votes)

    And his wife Jehudijah bare Jered the father of Gedor, and Heber the father of Socho, and Jekuthiel the father of Zanoah. And these [are] the sons of Bithiah the daughter of Pharaoh, which Mered took.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:50 (4 votes)

    These were the sons of Caleb the son of Hur, the firstborn of Ephratah; Shobal the father of Kirjathjearim,

  • 1 Chronicles 4:39 (3 votes)

    And they went to the entrance of Gedor, [even] unto the east side of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks.

  • Joshua 15:36 (2 votes)

    And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages:

  • 1 Chronicles 2:19 (2 votes)

    And when Azubah was dead, Caleb took unto him Ephrath, which bare him Hur.