1 Chronicles 8 2

1 Chronicles 8:2 kjv

Nohah the fourth, and Rapha the fifth.

1 Chronicles 8:2 nkjv

Nohah the fourth, and Rapha the fifth.

1 Chronicles 8:2 niv

Nohah the fourth and Rapha the fifth.

1 Chronicles 8:2 esv

Nohah the fourth, and Rapha the fifth.

1 Chronicles 8:2 nlt

the fourth was Nohah, and the fifth was Rapha.

1 Chronicles 8 verses

1 Chronicles 8 2 Meaning

1 Chronicles 8:2 continues the specific listing of Benjamin's sons. Following Bela, Ashbel, and Aharah, the verse states that Nohah was the fourth son, and Rapha was the fifth. This detailed enumeration highlights the meticulous genealogical records maintained, crucial for understanding tribal identities and lineages within ancient Israel.

1 Chronicles 8 2 Context

1 Chronicles 8:2 is part of a comprehensive genealogical record focusing solely on the tribe of Benjamin, covering the entire chapter. The preceding verse (1 Chr 8:1) begins the list of Benjamin's sons. Genealogies were critically important for the original audience, who had recently returned from Babylonian exile. These detailed records provided a means for the people to re-establish their identity, lay claim to ancestral lands, verify eligibility for priestly service, and maintain their tribal distinctions within the post-exilic community. The Chronicler emphasizes Benjamin's line, a key tribe that remained with Judah and contributed to the post-exilic nation, ensuring the preservation of the sacred tribal structures of Israel. Historically, such meticulous lists also validated the continuity of God's covenant promises, demonstrating His faithfulness in preserving the offspring of Israel despite their wanderings and exiles.

1 Chronicles 8 2 Word analysis

• And: (וְ - wə) A simple conjunction, connecting the two listed names with the previous verse, signaling a continuation of the same list or thought. Its presence emphasizes the ongoing, sequential nature of the genealogical record.
• Nohah: (נוֹחָה - Noḥah) This name, likely meaning "rest" or "a place of rest," is unique to this genealogical account of Benjamin in 1 Chronicles 8. It does not appear in other biblical lists of Benjamin's sons (e.g., Gen 46:21 or Num 26:38). Its inclusion here signifies the Chronicler's access to unique or alternative traditional records, or perhaps a different method of enumeration, such as listing founding members of specific Benjamite clans rather than direct sons born to Benjamin himself. The precise meaning, though common for names, here points to God's providence in providing peace and stability for the nation, ensuring that despite trials, new generations, literally "places of rest," arise.
• the fourth: (הָרְבִיעִי - hā-rə-ḇî-‘î) The definite article ("the") and the ordinal number clearly indicate a specific sequential position. This reflects the ordered nature of the genealogical record, signifying a meticulous attempt to preserve a precise birth order or recognized succession for these family heads. Such precise numbering underscored authenticity and legal claims within ancient society.
• and: (וְ - wə) Again, a connective linking the fourth and fifth names, reinforcing the contiguous listing.
• Rapha: (רָפָא - Rapha) The name Rapha (רָפָא) literally means "he has healed" or "a healer." However, it is also related to the term "Rephaim" (רְפָאִים), which can refer to ancient giants or specters/shades of the dead. This connection could imply a notable ancestor or a significant lineage association. Similar to "Nohah," Rapha (or variants like Rephah in 1 Chr 7:25) appears only in Chronicler's lists for Benjamin, suggesting either a founder of a particular clan known for healing/restoration, or perhaps for prowess or strength if linked to "Rephaim." The significance lies in documenting unique figures within the Benjamite line.
• the fifth: (וְהַחֲמִישִׁי - wə-ha-ḥă-mî-šî) Similar to "the fourth," this ordinal number emphasizes the careful and sequential accounting of Benjamin's descendants. This meticulous recording of birth order or generational position would have been crucial for inheritance laws and the establishment of societal roles in ancient Israelite culture.

1 Chronicles 8 2 Bonus section

The various genealogical lists of Benjamin found in Scripture (e.g., Gen 46:21, Num 26:38-41, 1 Chr 7:6-12, and 1 Chr 8:1-5) present differing numbers and names of "sons." This has led scholars to understand "sons" not exclusively as direct biological offspring, but often as foundational clan heads, prominent descendants, or leaders who lived at different times and were enumerated according to distinct administrative or genealogical criteria. For the Chronicler, the comprehensive listing in 1 Chronicles 8, despite its uniqueness, was vital for establishing identity and land rights for the returned exiles, particularly as Benjamin was one of the two tribes forming the core of post-exilic Judah. The detailed account solidifies the historical claims and validates the continuity of God's covenant with this particular lineage within the larger covenant community of Israel.

1 Chronicles 8 2 Commentary

1 Chronicles 8:2, though seemingly a simple recitation of names, holds profound significance within the Chronicler's larger purpose. By meticulously detailing the lineage of Benjamin, including individuals not found in earlier canonical lists, the text serves multiple functions. It not only establishes and verifies the identity of the Benjamite families post-exile but also implicitly addresses the theological assurance of God's covenant faithfulness. The specific naming and numbering of Nohah as the fourth and Rapha as the fifth highlight the comprehensiveness and distinctiveness of the Chronicler's genealogical data, likely drawn from existing royal or temple archives. This level of detail reassured the returning exiles of their true heritage and their rightful place within the restored Israelite community. The preservation of these names underscores God's remembrance of every individual and family within His chosen people, ensuring that none were forgotten from the tapestry of His redemptive plan.