1 Chronicles 7 33

1 Chronicles 7:33 kjv

And the sons of Japhlet; Pasach, and Bimhal, and Ashvath. These are the children of Japhlet.

1 Chronicles 7:33 nkjv

The sons of Japhlet were Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath. These were the children of Japhlet.

1 Chronicles 7:33 niv

The sons of Japhlet: Pasak, Bimhal and Ashvath. These were Japhlet's sons.

1 Chronicles 7:33 esv

The sons of Japhlet: Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath. These are the sons of Japhlet.

1 Chronicles 7:33 nlt

The sons of Japhlet were Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath.

1 Chronicles 7 verses

1 Chronicles 7 33 Meaning

The verse states a direct genealogical relationship, identifying Bela as the son of Zethan. This is part of a detailed record of the descendants of the tribe of Ephraim, specifically within the lineage of Shuthelah, Ephraim's son. Its primary meaning is to trace and preserve the tribal identity and family lines of ancient Israel, confirming lineage, tribal claims, and the continuity of God's people.

1 Chronicles 7 33 Context

First Chronicles Chapter 7 provides a detailed genealogical record for several Israelite tribes: Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh (west of the Jordan), Ephraim, and Asher. These lists aim to preserve the tribal distinctions and ancestral lines after the Babylonian exile, affirming identity, heritage, and the continuity of God's covenant with His people. The verse 1 Chr 7:33 falls within the Ephraimite lineage, specifically from Shuthelah, Ephraim's son. This genealogical section not only names descendants but also sometimes indicates their settlement areas and military strengths. The chronicler's overall purpose in these genealogies is to establish the national and spiritual identity of post-exilic Israel, confirming their right to the land, their temple worship, and the enduring nature of God's promises through the preservation of distinct families and tribes, leading ultimately to the establishment of the Davidic line. There are no direct polemics against contemporary beliefs found within this genealogical statement itself, as its purpose is to affirm identity rather than debate religious practices.

1 Chronicles 7 33 Word analysis

• The son of: (Hebrew: ben, בֶּן). This common Hebrew term directly translates to "son of," establishing a patrilineal lineage. In Israelite society, lineage through the father was paramount for inheritance, tribal identity, and societal status. The emphasis on "son of" reinforces the patriarchal structure and the systematic recording of family descent.
• Zethan: (Hebrew: Zeythan, זֵיתָן). The name "Zethan" means "olive tree." The mention of an olive tree could subtly allude to prosperity, fruitfulness, or enduring life, common symbolism in biblical contexts (Ps 52:8, Hos 14:6). In this genealogical list, Zethan is presented simply as the father of Bela. While the name meaning adds a layer of richness, the primary purpose here is lineage identification.
• was: The verb "was" (Hebrew: hayah, הָיָה - implicitly "he was" or "the one being") establishes the direct relationship. In Hebrew genealogies, this connection is often implied or directly stated with simple constructions, highlighting the direct descendant relationship without additional narrative.
• Bela: (Hebrew: Bela', בֶּלַע). The name "Bela" can have a few possible meanings, including "swallowing" or "destruction," possibly even "ancient" or "that which rises up." Notably, "Bela" is also the name of Benjamin's firstborn son (Gen 46:21), a distinct figure from this Ephraimite Bela. The recurrence of names in Israelite genealogies is common, reflecting family traditions, honor for ancestors, or specific hopes. Here, it simply identifies a specific individual in the Ephraimite line. Its inclusion signifies his importance as a recognized descendant for the purposes of the tribal record.

Words-group analysis

• "The son of Zethan was Bela": This phrase succinctly states a direct father-son relationship, which is the foundational unit of all ancient genealogies. It speaks to the rigorous and meticulous nature of the record-keeping by the Chronicler, emphasizing accuracy in tracing the lineage. In a biblical context, such clarity was vital for establishing rights to land, temple service, and proving descent from foundational figures like Abraham and eventually for the Messiah. This concise structure is typical of biblical genealogical lists, serving to confirm identity and ensure continuity through generations.

1 Chronicles 7 33 Bonus section

The extensive genealogies found throughout the book of Chronicles (spanning chapters 1-9) serve as a foundational anchor for the returning exiles. By meticulously tracing their heritage back to Adam, Noah, Abraham, and particularly the Davidic line, the Chronicler sought to reassure them of their identity and continuity with past generations of God's covenant people. These lists reinforced their right to the promised land and their distinct religious practices in a post-exilic world where their identity might feel tenuous. This particular verse about Bela of Ephraim is a small yet integral thread in this vast tapestry, reminding the readers that every recognized individual played a part in the unfolding story of God's chosen people. It demonstrates God's sovereignty over history, weaving individuals and families into His greater divine narrative.

1 Chronicles 7 33 Commentary

1 Chronicles 7:33 is a terse genealogical statement, serving as a single data point within the larger ancestral records of the tribe of Ephraim. While seemingly mundane, its inclusion underscores the Chronicler's deep concern for precise lineage tracking. Genealogies were crucial in ancient Israel to confirm tribal affiliation, ensure rights to inherited land (Num 26:52-56; Josh 14), establish eligibility for the priesthood (Ezr 2:62), and authenticate claims to leadership, especially for the Davidic monarchy. The detailed naming, even for lesser-known figures, reflects God's meticulous care for His covenant people, tracing their preservation through the centuries. It highlights the faithfulness of God in maintaining a chosen people through whom His redemptive plan would unfold, leading to the ultimate seed of Abraham and David, Jesus Christ. This verse, like countless others in these lists, testifies to God's continuous work through human families and His providential preservation of Israel's identity even during challenging times.