1 Chronicles 8 10

1 Chronicles 8:10 kjv

And Jeuz, and Shachia, and Mirma. These were his sons, heads of the fathers.

1 Chronicles 8:10 nkjv

Jeuz, Sachiah, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of their fathers' houses.

1 Chronicles 8:10 niv

Jeuz, Sakia and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of families.

1 Chronicles 8:10 esv

Jeuz, Sachia, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of fathers' houses.

1 Chronicles 8:10 nlt

Jeuz, Sakia, and Mirmah. These sons all became the leaders of clans.

1 Chronicles 8 verses

1 Chronicles 8 10 Meaning

This verse is a succinct genealogical record from the tribe of Benjamin, specifying Jeiel as the father (begat) of Gedor, Zebadiah, and Arad, who are identified as his "brethren," a term that can encompass a broader familial relationship than just immediate biological siblings, often including relatives or members of the same clan. Its purpose within the broader Chronicler's narrative is to meticulously trace the lineage of the tribes of Israel, reaffirming their identity and divine ordering.

1 Chronicles 8 10 Context

1 Chronicles 8:10 is embedded within an extensive genealogical record that begins in 1 Chronicles 1, tracing humanity from Adam and focusing specifically on the tribes of Israel through chapter 9. This particular verse is part of the genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin (1 Chron 8:1-40). The Chronicler, likely writing in the post-exilic period, aimed to establish the historical continuity and divine preservation of God's covenant people. For the original audience, who had returned from Babylonian exile and sought to re-establish their identity and claims to land and heritage, these genealogies were vital. They served as a record of who belonged to Israel, legitimizing tribal inheritance, priestly roles, and even royal lineage. They underscored that despite exile and scattering, God had preserved His people and His promises, asserting a continuous connection to the foundational patriarchs and the covenant promises. There are no explicit polemics, but the very existence and meticulousness of these genealogies subtly assert Israel's unique identity and heritage under God, contrasting with the fluid and less documented origins of surrounding pagan peoples.

1 Chronicles 8 10 Word analysis

• And (וְ): A simple conjunctive, linking this entry to the preceding names in the Benjaminite genealogy, maintaining the continuous flow of the record.
• Jeiel (יְעִיאֵל - Ye‘î’êl): Means "God is Strong" or "Taken away by God." It is a relatively common biblical name. The significance here is not in his deeds (none are recorded) but his existence as a link in the tribal chain, affirming the validity of this branch of Benjamin.
• begat (וְהוֹלִיד - wə·hō·w·lîḏ): From the Hebrew root יָלַד (yalad), meaning "to give birth to," "to beget," "to father." This term is foundational to biblical genealogies, precisely marking paternal descent. Its repeated use highlights the divinely ordained generational transmission of life and lineage.
• Gedor (גְּדוֹר - Gəḏôr): The name of one of Jeiel's sons. While it is also a place name, here it refers to an individual. Its inclusion confirms a specific progeny.
• and (וְ): Another simple conjunction, linking sons.
• Zebadiah (זְבַדְיָה - Zəḇaḏyāh): Means "Yahweh has bestowed" or "gift of Yahweh." This Theophoric name (containing part of God's name, Yahweh) is common in Israel, reflecting gratitude or theological affirmations. Its presence reiterates God's involvement in life and the continuation of generations.
• and (וְ): Connecting the final son.
• Arad (אָרָד - ’Ārâḏ): The name of the third son listed. The precise meaning is uncertain, but it might relate to "a wild ass" or "to wander." As with Gedor, its importance is purely as a record of an individual's existence and position in the lineage.
• his brethren (אֶחָיו - ’eḥāyw): This is the plural form of אָח (’ach), meaning "brother." While often denoting a full biological sibling, in ancient Hebrew culture and biblical usage, "brother" frequently has a wider sense, including half-brothers, kinsmen, fellow Israelites, or even close associates. In genealogies, it can refer to members of the same extended family or clan, reinforcing their shared identity and heritage, not necessarily indicating all were from the same immediate mother. This broad meaning helps account for the seemingly disparate lists of sons elsewhere in Chronicles and other historical books.

• "And Jeiel begat Gedor, and Zebadiah, and Arad": This phrase functions as a typical genealogical entry, precisely detailing the paternal link. It focuses on the propagation of the lineage, crucial for demonstrating tribal continuity and legitimacy within Israel.
• "his brethren": This phrase clarifies the relationship of the named individuals (Gedor, Zebadiah, Arad) within the broader family unit associated with Jeiel. It reinforces their kinship ties, whether as direct siblings or broader kinsmen, establishing them as integral parts of the Benjaminite clan for the purposes of the tribal record.

1 Chronicles 8 10 Bonus section

Biblical genealogies, including 1 Chronicles 8:10, are not always exhaustive or strictly chronological lists as understood in modern historical documents. They are often theological tools, selective in their presentation to serve specific purposes—like demonstrating the unbroken line to David for the Messiah, or preserving tribal identity for land inheritance post-exile. The Chronicler’s particular emphasis on Benjamin (and Judah and Levi) likely reflects the composition of the post-exilic community and their importance for Jerusalem and the temple. The variations in genealogical records across different biblical books are not contradictions but highlight this selective theological rather than strictly historical intent, underscoring the spiritual truths more than mere biological exactitude. These records demonstrate that even individuals without explicit historical acts recorded play a vital role in God's ongoing plan for His people.

1 Chronicles 8 10 Commentary

1 Chronicles 8:10, though seemingly a simple list of names, holds profound significance within the Chronicler's larger theological agenda. In the Bible, names and genealogies are never arbitrary; they affirm God's ordered creation, His faithfulness in preserving lineage despite human failure, and His meticulous attention to the details of His covenant people. For the returning exiles, this verse, along with hundreds of similar entries, served as a foundational document for rebuilding society, identifying land rights, establishing legitimate worship roles, and connecting the present generation to the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants. The inclusion of names like Jeiel, Gedor, Zebadiah, and Arad—individuals whose lives are otherwise unrecorded—underscores the comprehensive nature of God's memory and care for every generation. The term "brethren" highlights the communal and familial solidarity essential for national identity and resilience after great dispersal. It subtly teaches that every link in God's chain of purpose is significant, even if it appears to be a minor one, contributing to the grand narrative of salvation culminating in Christ.