1 Chronicles 7:7

And the sons of Bela; Ezbon, and Uzzi, and Uzziel, and Jerimoth, and Iri, five; heads of the house of [their] fathers, mighty men of valour; and were reckoned by their genealogies twenty and two thousand and thirty and four.

And the sons {H1121} of Bela {H1106}; Ezbon {H675}, and Uzzi {H5813}, and Uzziel {H5816}, and Jerimoth {H3406}, and Iri {H5901}, five {H2568}; heads {H7218} of the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, mighty {H1368} men of valour {H2428}; and were reckoned by their genealogies {H3187} twenty {H6242} and two {H8147} thousand {H505} and thirty {H7970} and four {H702}.

The sons of Bela were: Etzbon, 'Uzi, 'Uzi'el, Yerimot and 'Iri - five; they were leaders of fathers' clans, strong, brave men. They numbered 22,034, listed in genealogical records.

The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri, heads of their families—five in all. There were 22,034 mighty men of valor listed in their genealogies.

And the sons of Bela: Ezbon, and Uzzi, and Uzziel, and Jerimoth, and Iri, five; heads of fathers’ houses, mighty men of valor; and they were reckoned by genealogy twenty and two thousand and thirty and four.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 7:7 is part of the extensive genealogical records found in the book of 1 Chronicles. This particular verse details some of the descendants of Bela, who was one of the sons of Benjamin, emphasizing their numbers and their significant status within the tribe.

Context

The books of Chronicles primarily focus on the history of Judah and the Davidic line, tracing the lineage from Adam through the patriarchs and tribes of Israel. These detailed genealogies (Chapters 1-9) served crucial purposes for the post-exilic community: they affirmed tribal identities, established rights to land and inheritance, and validated claims to priestly or Levitical service. Verse 7 follows directly from the listing of Benjamin's sons, specifically expanding on the lineage of Bela.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Importance of Lineage: The meticulous recording of names and numbers underscores the significance of heritage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. This was not merely a historical record but a living document that defined social, religious, and legal standing.
  • Strength and Valour: The description "mighty men of valour" (Hebrew: gibborim chayil) indicates that these individuals were not just numerous but also possessed significant military prowess, leadership qualities, and courage. This term is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe powerful warriors or influential leaders, such as David's mighty men.
  • Divine Preservation: The sheer numbers mentioned ("twenty and two thousand and thirty and four") for just one branch of Benjamin's descendants highlight the growth and preservation of God's people over generations, reflecting His faithfulness to His covenant promises.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "mighty men of valour" is gibborim chayil. Gibborim (plural of gibbor) refers to strong, powerful, or heroic individuals, often warriors. Chayil denotes strength, wealth, or capability. Together, they describe individuals of considerable influence, courage, and military ability, emphasizing their contribution to the tribe's strength and security.

Practical Application

While a genealogical list might seem dry, 1 Chronicles 7:7 offers valuable insights:

  • Valuing Our Heritage: It reminds us that our past, our family, and our community contribute to who we are. Understanding our roots, whether physical or spiritual, can provide a sense of identity and belonging.
  • God's Attention to Detail: Even seemingly small details like family lineages are important in God's grand plan. This suggests that God cares deeply about every individual and every family within His people.
  • Recognizing God-Given Strengths: The mention of "mighty men of valour" encourages us to recognize and utilize the unique strengths and capabilities God has given to individuals and groups within His church today, for the building up of the body, as seen in Ephesians 4:12.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

  • 2 Chronicles 17:17 (2 votes)

    And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand.

  • 2 Chronicles 17:18 (2 votes)

    And next him [was] Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war.

  • 1 Chronicles 21:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel.

  • 1 Chronicles 21:5 (2 votes)

    And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all [they of] Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah [was] four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.