What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 2:41?

And Shallum begat Jekamiah, and Jekamiah begat Elishama.

1 Chronicles 2:41 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding 1 Chronicles 2:41

This verse, found in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles, references the descendants of Caleb, specifically focusing on the line of Caleb the son of Jephunneh. To fully grasp its meaning, we will pull insights from various public domain commentaries.

Bible Verse Meaning:

1 Chronicles 2:41 states:

"And the son of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel was Mesha, which was the father of Ziph."

Overview

The genealogical lists in Chronicles serve to remind the Israelites of their heritage and God's faithfulness through generations. Here, we see a continuation of a prominent family line, ensuring that the legacy of Caleb, a faithful servant of God, is preserved.

Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry points out that the mentioning of Caleb's descendants emphasizes the honorable and notable family from which they come. His faith, as seen in his past experiences especially during the Israelite’s journey to the Promised Land, is significant. It reflects on God’s promise being fulfilled across generations.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes reflects on the purpose of these genealogies in Chronicles, primarily to establish the legitimacy of the priestly line and the tribes of Israel. He notes that identifying specific individuals like Mesha not only contributes to the historical narrative but also reinforces the idea of divine providence in Israel's history.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke provides an insight into the name Ziph, signaling a connection to a town later mentioned in scripture. By noting these names and locations, the verse serves to create a fuller picture of the community and land promised to the Israelites.

Historical Context

Understanding the context is crucial to grasping the deeper meanings of such verses. The genealogy serves several purposes:

  • It reinforces the idea of God’s faithfulness across generations.
  • It demonstrates the Israelite’s claim to the Promised Land through respectable ancestry.
  • It provides a framework for understanding the ebb and flow of Israel’s history.

Applications in Daily Life

This verse and its context can be meaningful in several ways:

  • **Heritage and Identity**: Understanding one’s roots can provide a sense of belonging and stability.
  • **Faithfulness**: The legacy of Caleb serves as a model of loyal service to God under trying circumstances.
  • **Legacy**: Reflecting on what kind of legacy we will leave for future generations.

Cross References

  • Numbers 13:30 - Caleb's faith in the promises of God.
  • Joshua 14:6-14 - Caleb receives his inheritance.
  • 1 Chronicles 2:18-19 - Further genealogical details of Caleb and his sons.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 2:41 may seem like a simple genealogical note, but it carries deep implications about faithfulness, God's promises, and heritage. Understanding such Bible verses enriches our knowledge of Scripture, enabling us to appreciate the vast tapestry of God’s plan throughout history.

This verse invites us to delve deeper into Bible study resources, using online tools to explore the richness of Scripture and the significance of various passages.