1 Chronicles 8:8

1 Chronicles 8:8 (KJV) is part of an extensive genealogical record for the tribe of Benjamin, specifically detailing the lineage of Shaharaim and his family. This verse provides a glimpse into the complex family structures and geographical movements common in ancient Israelite society.

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles meticulously records genealogies, serving several crucial purposes for the Israelites after their return from exile. These lists helped to establish tribal identity, confirm land rights, and ensure the proper lineage for priestly and royal roles. Chapter 8 focuses on the descendants of Benjamin, one of Jacob's sons, tracing their families and settlements. Shaharaim is presented as one of these key figures whose descendants contributed to the tribal structure.

Key Themes

• Genealogy and Identity: The detailed family records underscore the profound importance of ancestry and tribal affiliation in Israelite society. Knowing one's lineage was fundamental to understanding one's place within the covenant community and one's inheritance. These extensive lists, similar to those found in Genesis 5 or Matthew 1, served to preserve Israel's history and ensure continuity.
• Complex Family Structures: The mention of multiple wives (Hushim and Baara) and the phrase "after he had sent them away" (referring to prior wives or family members) reflects the realities of polygamy and the practice of divorce or separation in that era. The Bible often records such societal norms without necessarily endorsing them as God's ideal.
• Geographic Connections: Shaharaim begat children "in the country of Moab." This detail highlights interactions or residences outside the immediate Israelite territories, showing the movement and intermingling of people. The country of Moab was a neighboring land with a complex relationship with Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "after he had sent them away" translates the Hebrew verb shalach (שָׁלַח), which can mean "to send away," "to dismiss," or "to divorce." In this context, it strongly suggests a prior marital dissolution or separation before Shaharaim established his family with Hushim and Baara in Moab. This factual record of his life circumstances, including the complexities of his marital history, is simply presented without moral commentary, as was common in biblical genealogies.

Practical Application

While a genealogical list may seem dry, it reminds us of several truths:

• God's Meticulous Record-Keeping: The Bible's attention to detail, even in complex family histories, demonstrates God's sovereignty over human lives and His preservation of historical truth.
• The Reality of Human Experience: The Bible doesn't shy away from portraying the often messy and imperfect realities of human relationships and choices, even within the context of God's chosen people.
• Every Life Matters: Though only names and brief facts are given, each individual mentioned was part of God's larger plan, contributing to the tapestry of Israel's history and ultimately, to the lineage leading to the Messiah.