1 Chronicles 8:6

And these [are] the sons of Ehud: these are the heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Geba, and they removed them to Manahath:

And these are the sons {H1121} of Ehud {H261}: these are the heads {H7218} of the fathers {H1} of the inhabitants {H3427} of Geba {H1387}, and they removed {H1540} them to Manahath {H4506}:

These are the sons of Ehud, the heads of fathers' clans among the inhabitants of Geva (they were carried away captive to Manachat;

These were the descendants of Ehud who were the heads of the families living in Geba and were exiled to Manahath:

And these are the sons of Ehud: these are the heads of fathers’ houses of the inhabitants of Geba, and they carried them captive to Manahath:

Commentary

1 Chronicles 8:6 is a specific entry within the comprehensive genealogies found in the book of 1 Chronicles, detailing a branch of the tribe of Benjamin and their geographical movements.

Context

This verse is situated within 1 Chronicles chapters 7-9, which are dedicated to the detailed tribal genealogies of Israel. The Chronicler, writing likely after the Babylonian exile, meticulously recorded these lineages to establish the identity, heritage, and land claims of the returning exiles. Chapter 8 focuses specifically on the tribe of Benjamin, a significant tribe despite its smaller size, known for producing Israel's first king, Saul, and later for its steadfast loyalty to Judah. The mention of "Geba" and "Manahath" highlights the real-world geographical settlements and relocations of these families, providing historical grounding to the genealogical record.

Key Themes

  • Preservation of Lineage: The meticulous recording of "the sons of Ehud" and their designation as "heads of the fathers" emphasizes the crucial importance of family lines and patriarchal leadership in ancient Israel. This precision was vital for establishing tribal inheritance, land rights, and social order.
  • Tribal Identity and Settlement: The verse firmly connects these Benjamite families to specific locations like Geba, a prominent city within the territory of Benjamin, and Manahath, where they were relocated. This detail reinforces the deep connection between the tribes, their specific territories, and their historical presence within the Promised Land.
  • Dynamic Settlement Patterns: The phrase "they removed them to Manahath" indicates that Israelite settlement was not always static. Such relocations could have been for administrative, strategic, or even punitive reasons, reflecting the evolving landscape of tribal habitation and control, much like other movements seen in books like Joshua.

Linguistic Insights

The term "heads of the fathers" (Hebrew: רָאשֵׁי אָבוֹת, rashei avot) refers to the leading men or chieftains of the various patriarchal clans or families. These individuals were authoritative figures responsible for their kin. The verb "removed them" (Hebrew: הֶגְלָם, heglam) literally means "he caused them to go into exile" or "he deported them," suggesting a deliberate, perhaps enforced, relocation rather than a voluntary migration, although the exact circumstances are not detailed in this concise genealogical note.

Practical Application

While seemingly a dry list of names and places, 1 Chronicles 8:6, like other genealogical passages, offers valuable lessons:

  1. God's Sovereignty in History: It illustrates God's meticulous attention to the details of human history and the lives of His people, demonstrating His involvement in their settlements and movements.
  2. The Value of Heritage: For the original audience, these records affirmed their place within God's covenant people and their claim to the land. For us today, it highlights the enduring value of our spiritual heritage and God's faithfulness through generations. This detailed record-keeping ultimately points to the preservation of the lineage through which the Messiah would come, as chronicled in Matthew 1:1.
  3. Purpose in Every Detail: Even seemingly mundane details in Scripture have a purpose in revealing God's character and His overarching plan for humanity.
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Cross-References

  • Judges 3:20 (3 votes)

    And Ehud came unto him; and he was sitting in a summer parlour, which he had for himself alone. And Ehud said, I have a message from God unto thee. And he arose out of [his] seat.

  • Judges 3:30 (3 votes)

    So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest fourscore years.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:54 (3 votes)

    The sons of Salma; Bethlehem, and the Netophathites, Ataroth, the house of Joab, and half of the Manahethites, the Zorites.

  • Judges 4:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD, when Ehud was dead.

  • Genesis 46:21 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Benjamin [were] Belah, and Becher, and Ashbel, Gera, and Naaman, Ehi, and Rosh, Muppim, and Huppim, and Ard.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:52 (2 votes)

    And Shobal the father of Kirjathjearim had sons; Haroeh, [and] half of the Manahethites.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:25 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Jerahmeel the firstborn of Hezron were, Ram the firstborn, and Bunah, and Oren, and Ozem, [and] Ahijah.