1 Chronicles 9:5

And of the Shilonites; Asaiah the firstborn, and his sons.

And of the Shilonites {H7888}; Asaiah {H6222} the firstborn {H1060}, and his sons {H1121}.

Of the Shiloni: 'Asayah the firstborn and his sons.

From the Shilonites: Asaiah the firstborn and his sons.

And of the Shilonites: Asaiah the first-born, and his sons.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 9:5 is part of a detailed census in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically listing those who resettled Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. This verse focuses on a particular family line from the tribe of Judah.

Context

Chapter 9 of 1 Chronicles provides an extensive register of the inhabitants of Jerusalem following their return from exile. It meticulously records not only the heads of families but also the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and various temple servants. This detailed enumeration underscores the re-establishment of the community and the vital restoration of temple worship and civic order in Jerusalem. The inclusion of groups like the Shilonites demonstrates the continuity of tribal identities and the rebuilding of the nation after a period of displacement.

Key Themes

  • Continuity and Restoration: This verse, like the surrounding passages, highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His people and their tribal distinctions, even after the devastating period of exile. It signifies the rebuilding of the community and the spiritual life of Israel, emphasizing that God's plans endure through generations.
  • Importance of Genealogy: The meticulous listing of "Asaiah the firstborn, and his sons" emphasizes the significance of lineage in ancient Israel, which was crucial for tribal identity, land inheritance, and specific roles in the community, particularly in the temple service. This reflects a deep respect for heritage and divine promises tied to specific families.
  • Divine Providence: Even in seemingly dry genealogical lists, the underlying message is God's active hand in preserving His covenant people and bringing them back to their land, fulfilling His promises of restoration as seen in Jeremiah 29:10. This demonstrates God's commitment to His people's future.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Shilonites" (Hebrew: Shiloni, ืฉึดืืœึนื ึดื™) refers to the descendants of Shelah, one of the sons of Judah (see Genesis 38:5 and 1 Chronicles 4:21). This confirms their identity as part of the prominent tribe of Judah. "Asaiah" (Hebrew: Asayah, ืขึฒืฉึธื‚ื™ึธื”) means "Yahweh has made" or "Yahweh has done," a common theophoric name reflecting reliance on God's action. The designation "the firstborn" (Hebrew: bekor, ื‘ึฐึผื›ื•ึนืจ) indicates his primary status or leadership within his family branch, often carrying privileges and responsibilities.

Practical Application

While a genealogical record might seem distant, it reminds us that God cares about every individual and family within His grand plan. Just as God meticulously recorded the returnees to rebuild His community, He also knows and cares for each of us personally. This verse encourages us to appreciate our spiritual heritage and the importance of our role, however seemingly small, in the larger body of believers. It highlights the enduring nature of God's covenant and His commitment to His people, even through periods of difficulty and dispersion, offering a profound sense of hope and continuity, much like the lessons derived from all Scripture for our instruction and encouragement.

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Cross-References

  • Nehemiah 11:5 (2 votes)

    And Maaseiah the son of Baruch, the son of Colhozeh, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, the son of Shiloni.

  • Numbers 26:20 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Judah after their families were; of Shelah, the family of the Shelanites: of Pharez, the family of the Pharzites: of Zerah, the family of the Zarhites.