1 Chronicles 4 16

1 Chronicles 4:16 kjv

And the sons of Jehaleleel; Ziph, and Ziphah, Tiria, and Asareel.

1 Chronicles 4:16 nkjv

The sons of Jehallelel were Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria, and Asarel.

1 Chronicles 4:16 niv

The sons of Jehallelel: Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria and Asarel.

1 Chronicles 4:16 esv

The sons of Jehallelel: Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria, and Asarel.

1 Chronicles 4:16 nlt

The sons of Jehallelel were Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria, and Asarel.

1 Chronicles 4 verses

1 Chronicles 4 16 Meaning

1 Chronicles 4:16 provides a straightforward genealogical record, listing the four sons of Jehallelel: Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria, and Asarel. This verse is part of an extended series of tribal lists, particularly focusing on the descendants of Judah, emphasizing their family lines, geographic associations, and occupations. For the post-exilic community for whom Chronicles was primarily written, these genealogies were crucial for re-establishing identity, legitimate claim to ancestral land, priestly and Levitical duties, and understanding the divine plan through preserved lineages, including the foundational line of Judah.

1 Chronicles 4 16 Context

1 Chronicles 4:16 is nestled within a lengthy genealogical section (1 Chronicles 1-9) that comprises almost a third of the book. Specifically, it is found in the detailed lineage of the tribe of Judah (1 Chr 2:3–4:23), the tribe from which King David and ultimately the Messiah would descend. The purpose of these meticulous lists was critical for the post-exilic community in Jerusalem. It aimed to validate the true identity of the returned exiles, confirm their rightful inheritance of land, delineate lines for priestly and Levitical service, and reassure them of God's continuing faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially concerning the Davidic dynasty. In a period of national reconstruction, affirming historical and divine continuity through accurate records provided stability and hope, contrasting with the fluid and less precise records of pagan peoples. The inclusion of seemingly mundane names serves a larger theological and historical narrative.

1 Chronicles 4 16 Word analysis

• The sons of Jehallelel: This phrase introduces the direct progeny of Jehallelel, indicating a family unit whose lineage is being documented. In ancient Israel, male offspring were crucial for carrying on the family name, tribal identity, and land inheritance. The mention of "sons" highlights the perpetuation of the family line, which was a core purpose of these genealogies.
• Jehallelel (יְהַלְלְאֵל, Yehallele'l): This significant Hebrew name translates to "Praise of God" or "God praises." The root "halal" means to praise, and "el" refers to God. The very name suggests a divine connection and a theme of praise or divine approval woven into this family's identity. While the individuals are merely listed, the name itself carries theological resonance, hinting at a family perhaps known for their devotion or one whom God especially blessed. This subtly elevates the seemingly simple record beyond mere names.
• Ziph (זִיף, Ziyph): The name Ziph likely means "flowing" or "gushing forth." There are multiple towns in Judah named Ziph (e.g., in Josh 15:24, 1 Sam 23:14), suggesting this name might have had regional associations or simply reflected a common, descriptive term in that period. Within the lineage, it denotes one of the foundational family members for a specific sub-clan.
• and Ziphah (וְזִיפָה, ve-Ziyphah): Ziphah is likely a feminine form or a derivative of Ziph, or perhaps an echo name indicating closeness or association. The Hebrew spelling often denotes "the Ziphite woman" or a place belonging to Ziph. In this context, it is listed as a male descendant, indicating either a masculine usage of a similar-sounding name or a scribal variant for a specific person, distinct from Ziph. It reinforces the familial connection through naming conventions.
• Tiria (תִּרְיָא, Tirya’): The etymology of Tiria is less clear. Some suggestions connect it to "gate" or "row/array." As with many ancient names, its specific meaning might have been tied to local dialect, an event at birth, or a physical characteristic. Its inclusion here simply solidifies its place as another son, preserving a distinct branch of Jehallelel's lineage.
• and Asarel (וַאֲשַׂרְאֵל, va-'Asar'el): This name translates to "God has bound" or, more positively interpreted from the root 'asar' (to bind, or sometimes to rule/command), it can mean "God has ruled" or "God has led" or "God has helped." The "el" suffix signifies God. Like "Jehallelel," "Asarel" carries a theophoric element, indicating a strong connection to God. The idea of "God has ruled" or "God has helped/led" suggests divine Providence or governance within this specific family line.

1 Chronicles 4 16 Bonus section

The presence of highly specific genealogical lists like 1 Chronicles 4:16 speaks to the importance of accurate record-keeping and oral traditions within ancient Israelite society. These were not just names on a page; they represented land deeds, family histories, and community identity markers. For the returning exiles, these lists provided assurance that despite the disruption of the exile, God's chosen people endured and that the divine promises of land and kingship remained valid for their descendants. The Chronicler’s focus on the continuity of lineage served as an exhortation for the post-exilic community to maintain purity of ancestry and to live as the true remnant of Israel, reinforcing tribal distinctiveness in a changing world.

1 Chronicles 4 16 Commentary

1 Chronicles 4:16, though a mere list of names, is part of the Chronicler's significant theological project: establishing the legitimate Israelite identity and lineage, especially of the tribe of Judah, for the post-exilic community. These meticulously recorded names were not random but formed the backbone of Israel's communal memory, land claims, and religious roles. The names themselves, particularly "Jehallelel" ("Praise of God") and "Asarel" ("God has ruled/bound"), subtly weave theological themes of divine praise and God's sovereignty into the very fabric of the lineage. This shows that God's hand was seen not just in grand events, but also in the quiet, consistent preservation of families. It highlights the principle that every individual, even those merely listed, is part of a larger divine story, contributing to the tapestry of God's covenant people. The verse emphasizes that God remains faithful to His chosen line, preserving it across generations even through exile, underpinning the hope of future restoration and the ultimate coming of the promised Davidic King.