1 Chronicles 4:40

And they found fat pasture and good, and the land [was] wide, and quiet, and peaceable; for [they] of Ham had dwelt there of old.

And they found {H4672} fat {H8082} pasture {H4829} and good {H2896}, and the land {H776} was wide {H7342}{H3027}, and quiet {H8252}, and peaceable {H7961}; for they of Ham {H2526} had dwelt {H3427} there of old {H6440}.

They found rich, good pastures; and the land was spacious, quiet and peaceful. Those who had lived there previously belonged to Ham.

There they found rich, good pasture, and the land was spacious, peaceful, and quiet; for some Hamites had lived there formerly.

And they found fat pasture and good, and the land was wide, and quiet, and peaceable; for they that dwelt there aforetime were of Ham.

Commentary

Context of 1 Chronicles 4:40

This verse is found within the extensive genealogies of the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically detailing the lineage and activities of the tribe of Simeon. The earlier verses in this chapter (1 Chronicles 4:34-39) describe how certain Simeonite families, having increased in number, sought to expand their territory beyond their original inheritance, which was largely enclaved within the larger tribe of Judah's land (Joshua 19:1-9). Verse 40 recounts the successful outcome of their quest for new dwelling places, highlighting the quality of the land they discovered.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Provision: The discovery of "fat pasture and good" land suggests God's blessing and provision for His people. The Simeonites, seeking new homes, found a place that was not merely adequate but exceptionally fertile and suitable for their flocks and families. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God providing for His covenant people.
  • Abundance and Security: The description of the land as "wide, and quiet, and peaceable" emphasizes its ideal conditions. "Wide" implies ample space for growth and expansion, while "quiet and peaceable" signifies security and freedom from conflict, a highly desirable state in ancient times. This stands in contrast to the often-contested territories of Canaan.
  • Historical Transition: The phrase "for they of Ham had dwelt there of old" provides a historical note. It indicates that the land was previously inhabited by descendants of Ham (likely referring to certain Canaanite or other pre-Israelite groups), implying that their departure or displacement made the land available for the Simeonites to settle peacefully. This highlights the ongoing shifts in population and territorial control within the Promised Land.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "fat pasture and good" translates the Hebrew `mar'eh shamen v'tov`, literally "pasture fat and good." The word `shamen` (fat) here denotes richness, fertility, and lushness, indicating highly productive grazing land. The terms "quiet" (Hebrew: `shaqat`) and "peaceable" (Hebrew: `shalom`) reinforce the idea of a land free from disturbance, secure, and conducive to well-being, a state often sought after by ancient peoples.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 4:40 offers a glimpse into God's faithful care for His people, even in the midst of genealogical records. It reminds us that:

  • God Provides: Just as God provided a rich and peaceful land for the Simeonites, He continues to provide for His people today, often in ways that exceed expectations (Philippians 4:19).
  • Seeking Opportunities: The Simeonites actively sought new territory. This can encourage believers to diligently seek opportunities, trusting that God will guide them to places of blessing and fruitfulness.
  • The Value of Peace: The description of a "quiet and peaceable" land underscores the desirability of peace and security in our lives and communities. It's a reminder to pursue peace with all people (Romans 12:18).
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Cross-References

  • Judges 18:7 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then the five men departed, and came to Laish, and saw the people that [were] therein, how they dwelt careless, after the manner of the Zidonians, quiet and secure; and [there was] no magistrate in the land, that might put [them] to shame in [any] thing; and they [were] far from the Zidonians, and had no business with [any] man.

  • Judges 18:10 (4 votes)

    When ye go, ye shall come unto a people secure, and to a large land: for God hath given it into your hands; a place where [there is] no want of any thing that [is] in the earth.

  • Psalms 105:23 (2 votes)

    Israel also came into Egypt; and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham.

  • Genesis 9:22 (2 votes)

    And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and told his two brethren without.

  • Genesis 9:29 (2 votes)

    And all the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty years: and he died.

  • Genesis 10:6 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the sons of Ham; Cush, and Mizraim, and Phut, and Canaan.

  • Psalms 78:51 (2 votes)

    And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of [their] strength in the tabernacles of Ham: