1 Chronicles 9 36

1 Chronicles 9:36 kjv

And his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, and Kish, and Baal, and Ner, and Nadab.

1 Chronicles 9:36 nkjv

His firstborn son was Abdon, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab,

1 Chronicles 9:36 niv

and his firstborn son was Abdon, followed by Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab,

1 Chronicles 9:36 esv

and his firstborn son Abdon, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab,

1 Chronicles 9:36 nlt

and his oldest son was named Abdon. Jeiel's other sons were Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab,

1 Chronicles 9 verses

1 Chronicles 9 36 Meaning

This verse lists a portion of the family lineage of Jehiel, identified as the "father of Gibeon" (referring to his significant role or foundational status concerning the inhabitants of Gibeon). It specifically names Abdon as his firstborn son, followed by Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, and Nadab, thereby continuing the detailed genealogical record of families dwelling in this significant Israelite town, particularly those from the tribe of Benjamin who trace back to King Saul's lineage.

1 Chronicles 9 36 Context

First Chronicles 9:36 is situated within the lengthy genealogical records that dominate the first nine chapters of the book. Following the chronicling of various Israelite tribes, Chapter 9 focuses particularly on the inhabitants of Jerusalem and the surrounding regions after the Babylonian exile, emphasizing those responsible for temple service and, as seen in this specific passage, key families from the tribe of Benjamin. Verses 35-44 (which directly parallel 1 Chronicles 8:29-38) recount the lineage of King Saul through Jehiel, identified as the "father of Gibeon." This context highlights the meticulous concern of the Chronicler to accurately preserve the tribal and familial identities of the returned exiles, allowing them to re-establish their land rights, roles, and communal structure. The inclusion of Saul's line, despite its failure as a lasting monarchy, underscores the comprehensive nature of the record, preparing the way for the ultimate, everlasting Davidic dynasty.

1 Chronicles 9 36 Word analysis

• His: Refers to "Jehiel," the "father of Gibeon," mentioned in the preceding verse (1 Chron 9:35). This connects the list of sons directly to this important patriarchal figure associated with a key location.
• firstborn: (Hebrew: בְּכֹר, bekor) – This term carries significant legal and social implications beyond simply being the initial offspring. The bekor typically held preeminent status, inherited a double portion of the inheritance, and often assumed the family headship. While tribal realities might alter primogeniture (e.g., Reuben), the mention still denotes a specific, important role within the family structure.
• son: (Hebrew: בֵּן, ben) – Standard Hebrew term for male offspring, confirming the gender of the individuals in this patrilineal list.
• Abdon: (Hebrew: עַבְדּוֹן, ‘Avdon) – Meaning "servile" or "service." This name is attested elsewhere in Israel (e.g., a judge in Judg 12:13-15). Here, he is designated as the primary heir of Jehiel's household.
• then: Indicates a sequential order, continuing the enumeration of Jehiel's sons.
• Zur: (Hebrew: צוּר, Tzur) – Meaning "rock" or "fortress." A common ancient Semitic name.
• Kish: (Hebrew: קִישׁ, Qish) – This name is of crucial importance as he is explicitly identified later (1 Chron 8:33; 9:39) as the father of Saul, Israel's first king. Its presence in this Gibeonite family tree thus ties this family to the former royal lineage from Benjamin, showcasing the Chronicler's precision in tracking important lines. The name possibly relates to a "bow," implying a warrior connection.
• Baal: (Hebrew: בַּעַל, Ba‘al) – Meaning "master," "lord," or "owner." While deeply associated with the Canaanite fertility deity, "Baal" also functioned as a common noun in Hebrew, sometimes used in Israelite personal names (e.g., Eshbaal, Meribbaal, later changed to Ish-bosheth and Mephibosheth due to later theological sensitivity against the pagan deity). Its appearance here does not necessarily indicate polytheism on the part of the individual, but rather reflects early cultural linguistic practices.
• Ner: (Hebrew: נֵר, Ner) – Meaning "lamp" or "light." This is another pivotal name in this genealogy, as he is the father of Kish and therefore the grandfather of King Saul (1 Chron 8:33; 9:39). Its inclusion directly establishes a three-generational link (Ner-Kish-Saul), grounding the former royal family within this broader tribal listing.
• Nadab: (Hebrew: נָדָב, Nadab) – Meaning "generous" or "willing." This name is also found elsewhere in Israelite history (e.g., one of Aaron's sons).

Words-group analysis:

• "His firstborn son was Abdon": This opening phrase for the listing emphasizes the patriarchal structure and the special status of the bekor. It immediately anchors this detailed lineage within a familiar, structured family pattern. The specific naming of "firstborn" highlights the lineage's legal and social continuity from its progenitor.
• "then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab": The rapid succession of names indicates a systematic listing of all relevant sons from this significant patriarch. The very act of naming each child underscores the meticulous record-keeping intrinsic to Israelite tribal identity. The inclusion of "Kish" and "Ner" within this list points to a specific historical and genealogical aim: to clearly delineate the ancestral connection to the line of Israel's first king, even though that monarchy had long since passed.

1 Chronicles 9 36 Bonus section

The repeated presentation of these genealogical lists, often with minor variations or expansions across chapters (e.g., 1 Chron 8 and 9 concerning this family), highlights the Chronicler's methodology and emphasis. It suggests a process of compiling and meticulously validating records available to him, demonstrating a commitment to accuracy and completeness for his audience, who likely used these lists for practical purposes in re-establishing their community in the post-exilic period. The inclusion of names like "Baal" in early Israelite genealogies is a fascinating linguistic and cultural detail, indicating how common Hebrew words that also served as pagan deity names could exist in personal names, pre-dating the later, more rigid polemics against such associations. This subtle detail demonstrates a nuanced historical reality regarding cultural overlap while God was distinguishing His people.

1 Chronicles 9 36 Commentary

1 Chronicles 9:36, though a concise enumeration of names, is a highly significant part of the Chronicler's larger genealogical project. Its primary purpose is the precise preservation of tribal and family records for the post-exilic community. By detailing the lineage of Jehiel of Gibeon, especially through "Kish" and "Ner," the verse provides a direct genealogical bridge to King Saul, validating and cementing the historical connection between these families and the earlier Israelite monarchy. This precision was not merely an academic exercise; for the returning exiles, these records were vital for establishing tribal identities, inheriting land, maintaining religious roles, and solidifying their place within God's covenant people. The reiteration of such lists (as seen by comparison with 1 Chron 8) speaks to their critical importance, underscoring God's faithfulness in sustaining a remnant and preserving the thread of His chosen people through generations, regardless of political upheavals or periods of exile. This foundational knowledge underpinned the rebuilding of the community and the continuation of God's redemptive plan for His nation.