The Descendants of Issachar 1The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah,a Jashub, and Shimron—four in all. 2The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, the heads of their families. In the days of David, 22,600 descendants of Tola were numbered in their genealogies as mighty men of valor. Izrahiah. The sons of Izrahiah: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah. All five of them were chiefs. 4In addition to them, according to their genealogy, they had 36,000 troops for battle, for they had many wives and children. 5Their kinsmen belonging to all the families of Issachar who were mighty men of valor totaled 87,000, as listed in their genealogies. The Descendants of Benjamin 6The three sons of Benjamin: 7The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri, heads of their families—five in all. There were 22,034 mighty men of valor listed in their genealogies. 8The sons of Becher: Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth; all these were Becher’s sons. 9Their genealogies were recorded according to the heads of their families—20,200 mighty men of valor. 10The son of Jediael: Bilhan. The sons of Bilhan: Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar. 11All these sons of Jediael were heads of their families, mighty men of valor; there were 17,200 fit for battle. 12The Shuppites and Huppites were descendants of Ir, and the Hushites were descendants of Aher. The Descendants of Naphtali 13The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel,c Guni, Jezer, and Shallumd—the descendants of Bilhah. The Descendants of Manasseh 14The descendants of Manasseh: Asriel through his Aramean concubine. She also gave birth to Machir the father of Gilead. 15Machir took a wife from among the Huppites and Shuppites. The name of his sister was Maacah. Another descendant was named Zelophehad, who had only daughters. 16Machir’s wife Maacah gave birth to a son, and she named him Peresh. His brother was named Sheresh, and his sons were Ulam and Rekem. 17The son of Ulam: Bedan. These were the sons of Gilead son of Machir, the son of Manasseh. 18His sister Hammolecheth gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah. 19And these were the sons of Shemida: Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam. The Descendants of Ephraim 20The descendants of Ephraim: Shuthelah, Bered his son, Tahath his son, Eleadah his son, Tahath his son, 21Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son. Ezer and Elead were killed by the natives of Gath, because they went down to steal their livestock. 22Their father Ephraim mourned for many days, and his relatives came to comfort him. 23And again he slept with his wife, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. So he named him Beriah,e because tragedy had come upon his house. 24His daughter was Sheerah, who built Lower and Upper Beth-horon, as well as Uzzen-sheerah. 25Additionally, Rephah was his son, Resheph his son,f Telah his son, Tahan his son, 26Ladan his son, Ammihud his son, Elishama his son, 27Nung his son, and Joshua his son. 28Their holdings and settlements included Bethel and its villages, Naaran to the east, Gezer and its villages to the west, and Shechem and its villages as far as Ayyahh and its villages. 29And along the borders of Manasseh were Beth-shean,i Taanach, Megiddo, and Dor, together with their villages. The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns. The Descendants of Asher 30The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah. 31The sons of Beriah: Heber, as well as Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith. 32Heber was the father of Japhlet, Shomer, and Hotham, and of their sister Shua. 33The sons of Japhlet: Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath. These were Japhlet’s sons. 34The sons of Shemer: Ahi, Rohgah,j Hubbah, and Aram. 35The sons of his brother Helem:k Zophah, Imna, Shelesh, and Amal. 36The sons of Zophah: Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah, 37Bezer, Hod, Shamma, Shilshah, Ithran,l and Beera. 38The sons of Jether: 39The sons of Ulla: Arah, Hanniel, and Rizia. 40All these were the descendants of Asher—heads of their families, choice and mighty men of valor, and chiefs among the leaders. The number of men fit for battle, recorded in their genealogies, was 26,000. Footnotes: 1 a Puah is a variant of Puvah; see Genesis 46:13 and Numbers 26:23. 3 b Hebrew sons; also in verses 10 and 17 13 c Jahziel is a variant of Jahzeel; see Genesis 46:24. 13 d Most Hebrew manuscripts; some Hebrew and LXX manuscripts Shillem; see Genesis 46:24 and Numbers 26:49. 23 e Beriah sounds like the Hebrew for tragedy or disaster. 25 f Some LXX manuscripts; Hebrew does not include his son. 27 g Or Non 28 h Ayyah is another name for Gaza; see also LXX. 29 i Beth-shean is a variant of Beth-shan; see 1 Samuel 31:10 and 2 Samuel 21:12. 34 j Or The sons of his brother Shemer: Rohgah; note that Shemer is a variant of Shomer; see verse 32. 35 k Helem is possibly another name for Hotham; see verse 32. 37 l Ithran is possibly a variant of Jether; see verse 38. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  1 Chronicles 7 Summary The Descendants of IssacharVerses 1–5 – Issachar’s Descendants and Valor Verses 6–12 – Benjamin’s Mighty Households Verse 13 – Naphtali’s Sons Verses 14–19 – Manasseh’s Mixed Line and Bold Mothers Verses 20–29 – Ephraim’s Tragedy and Triumph Verses 30–40 – Asher’s Abundance of Warriors 1 Chronicles 7 continues the detailed genealogical records of the tribes of Israel, moving from Issachar to Asher. It presents a picture of the ancestral lineage that forms the history and identity of Israel, signifying God's providence and promise to His people. Historical Snapshot 1 Chronicles was compiled after Judah’s exile, when many northern families had vanished. By rehearsing Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher, the chronicler says, “You are still Israel.” The lists connect post-exilic readers to God’s covenant promise in Genesis 12: “in you all families of the earth will be blessed.” Why Genealogies Matter • They verify tribal land claims (see Joshua 17; 19). • They trace priestly and royal lines; Joshua (v. 27) points to past victory, while Benjamin’s warriors anticipate the coming king (Saul) and later the apostle Paul (Philippians 3:5). • They show God’s faithfulness across imperfect stories—concubines, raids, grief, and bold daughters are all woven into His plan. Numbers that Preach Issachar’s 87,000 and Benjamin’s 59,434 echo the wilderness censuses (Numbers 1; 26) but are updated “in the days of David” (7:2). The growth implies fruitfulness when Israel obeys (Deuteronomy 28:4) and underscores David’s broad support outside Judah. Women in the Chapter • Maacah (v. 15) and Hammolecheth (v. 18) name sons—authority in a patriarchal world. • Zelophehad’s daughters remind readers that God defends the inheritance of the fatherless (Numbers 27:6-7). • Sheerah (v. 24) builds cities, foreshadowing Proverbs 31:16, “She considers a field and buys it.” Geography & Archaeology • Beth-horon: twin pass-towns guarding the ascent from the coast; Late Bronze fortifications unearthed. • Gezer: an Egyptian victory inscription mentions its capture; Solomon later fortifies it (1 Kings 9:15-17). • Megiddo: famous tel with stables and gates; fits verse 29’s Manassite territory. • Dor: coastal port with Phoenician influence; trade wealth likely funded Asher’s “rich bread” (Genesis 49:20). • Gath raid (v. 21): Philistine border tension is archaeologically supported by Iron-Age destruction layers at Tell es-Saf i (Gath). Scripture Connections • Issachar’s discernment, “men who understood the times” (1 Chronicles 12:32), partners with their numbers here. • Benjamin’s slingers (Judges 20:16) form a background to 7:6-12’s count of bow-ready men. • Asher’s blessing, “may he dip his foot in oil” (Deuteronomy 33:24), aligns with their fertile coastal holdings. • Joshua, last in Ephraim’s list, links to “Jesus” (same Hebrew name, Yeshua) and foreshadows ultimate deliverance (Hebrews 4:8-9). Life Lessons • God remembers names others forget; even one-verse Naphtali is precious. • Grief is real (Ephraim’s mourning) but not final; new life (Beriah) can follow sorrow (Psalm 30:5). • Faith welcomes the initiative of women—Sheerah’s cities still stood in the chronicler’s day. • Strength is for service. Every tribe that mustered “mighty men of valor” was meant to protect covenant life, not just parade military pride. Takeaway 1 Chronicles 7 may read like a phone book, yet it pulses with promise: families multiplied, lands secured, women honored, leaders prepared, and the storyline of redemption quietly advancing toward a greater Joshua who will settle God’s people forever. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 12:1-3God's promise to Abraham, which is foundational to the genealogies and the unfolding of His covenant. Hebrews 11:39-40 The faith of those who came before us, highlighting the continuity of God's plan through generations. Romans 8:28 Assurance that God works all things together for good, reflecting His sovereign control over history. Teaching Points God's FaithfulnessThe genealogies in 1 Chronicles 7 highlight God's faithfulness in preserving the tribes of Israel. Each name represents a link in the chain of God's covenant promises. Significance of Each Tribe Each tribe had a unique role and contribution to the nation of Israel. Understanding these roles helps us appreciate the diversity and unity within God's people. Legacy and Heritage The chapter underscores the importance of legacy and heritage. The names listed are not just historical records but testimonies of faith and endurance. Divine Order The structured genealogies reflect God's order and purpose in history, reminding us that He is sovereign over all generations. Practical Applications Value of Every IndividualJust as each name in the genealogy had significance, every person today has a role in God's plan. We should value and encourage one another in our unique callings. Faithfulness in Our Generation Like the tribes of Israel, we are called to be faithful in our generation, passing on the legacy of faith to the next. Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, we can trust in God's sovereign plan, knowing that He is working through history to fulfill His purposes. People 1. IssacharThe chapter begins with the descendants of Issachar, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, emphasizing his lineage and the mighty men of valor that came from his tribe. 2. Tola A descendant of Issachar, Tola is noted as a leader and the father of several sons who were heads of their families. 3. Puah Another descendant of Issachar, Puah is listed as one of Tola's sons. 4. Jashub Also a son of Tola, Jashub is mentioned in the genealogy of Issachar. 5. Shimron The fourth son of Tola, included in the list of Issachar's descendants. 6. Uzzi A descendant of Tola, Uzzi is noted as a leader among the families of Issachar. 7. Rephaiah A son of Uzzi, continuing the lineage of Issachar. 8. Jeriel Another son of Uzzi, part of the genealogical record of Issachar. 9. Jahmai Also a son of Uzzi, included in the genealogy. 10. Ibsam A descendant of Uzzi, listed among the sons of Issachar. 11. Shemuel Another son of Uzzi, part of the genealogical record. 12. Benjamin The chapter also covers the descendants of Benjamin, another son of Jacob, highlighting his lineage. 13. Bela A son of Benjamin, noted for his descendants and their roles. 14. Becher Another son of Benjamin, included in the genealogical record. 15. Jediael Also a son of Benjamin, with a notable lineage. 16. Bilhan A descendant of Jediael, part of Benjamin's genealogy. 17. Jeush Another descendant of Jediael, included in the list. 18. Benjamin (son of Jediael) A descendant of Jediael, sharing the same name as his ancestor. 19. Ehud A descendant of Benjamin, noted in the genealogy. 20. Chenaanah Another descendant of Benjamin, included in the list. 21. Zethan A descendant of Benjamin, part of the genealogical record. 22. Tarshish Also a descendant of Benjamin, included in the genealogy. 23. Ahishahar Another descendant of Benjamin, noted in the list. 24. Naphtali The chapter briefly mentions the descendants of Naphtali, another son of Jacob. 25. Jahziel A descendant of Naphtali, included in the genealogical record. 26. Guni Another descendant of Naphtali, part of the list. 27. Jezer Also a descendant of Naphtali, included in the genealogy. 28. Shillem A descendant of Naphtali, noted in the genealogical record. 29. Manasseh The chapter also covers the descendants of Manasseh, a son of Joseph. 30. Asriel A descendant of Manasseh, included in the genealogy. 31. Machir Another descendant of Manasseh, noted for his role and lineage. 32. Gilead A descendant of Machir, part of Manasseh's genealogy. 33. Zelophehad A notable descendant of Manasseh, known for having only daughters. 34. Ephraim The chapter also includes the descendants of Ephraim, another son of Joseph. 35. Shuthelah A descendant of Ephraim, included in the genealogical record. 36. Ezer Another descendant of Ephraim, noted in the list. 37. Elead Also a descendant of Ephraim, included in the genealogy. 38. Beriah A descendant of Ephraim, noted for his lineage. 39. Rephah Another descendant of Ephraim, part of the genealogical record. 40. Resheph A descendant of Ephraim, included in the list. 41. Telah Another descendant of Ephraim, noted in the genealogy. 42. Tahan A descendant of Ephraim, part of the genealogical record. 43. Ladan Another descendant of Ephraim, included in the list. 44. Ammihud A descendant of Ephraim, noted in the genealogy. 45. Elishama Another descendant of Ephraim, part of the genealogical record. 46. Nun A descendant of Ephraim, known as the father of Joshua. 47. Joshua A notable descendant of Ephraim, recognized as a leader of Israel. 48. Asher The chapter concludes with the descendants of Asher, another son of Jacob. 49. Imnah A descendant of Asher, included in the genealogical record. 50. Ishvah Another descendant of Asher, noted in the list. 51. Ishvi Also a descendant of Asher, part of the genealogy. 52. Beriah A descendant of Asher, noted for his lineage. 53. Heber Another descendant of Asher, included in the genealogical record. 54. Malchiel A descendant of Asher, noted in the list. 55. Birzaith Another descendant of Asher, part of the genealogy. 56. Serah A daughter of Asher, uniquely mentioned among the genealogies. Places 1. Beth SheanMentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:29, Beth Shean is a city located in the territory of Manasseh. It is historically significant as a strategic location in the Jezreel Valley. The Hebrew root for Beth Shean is "בֵּית שְׁאָן" (Beit She'an), meaning "house of rest." 2. Taanach Also found in 1 Chronicles 7:29, Taanach is another city within the territory of Manasseh. It is situated near Megiddo and was an important Canaanite city. The Hebrew name "תַּעְנַךְ" (Ta'anakh) is believed to mean "sandy" or "lowland." 3. Megiddo This city is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:29 as part of Manasseh's territory. Megiddo is known for its strategic military significance and is the site of several historical battles. The Hebrew "מְגִדּוֹ" (Megiddo) may mean "place of troops" or "assembly." 4. Dor Dor is listed in 1 Chronicles 7:29 as a coastal city in the territory of Manasseh. It was an important port city in ancient times. The Hebrew "דּוֹר" (Dor) means "generation" or "habitation." Events 1. Descendants of IssacharThe chapter begins by listing the descendants of Issachar, noting that they were "mighty men of valor" (1 Chronicles 7:2). The Hebrew term used here, "גִּבּוֹרֵי חָיִל" (gibborê ḥayil), emphasizes their strength and bravery. 2. Descendants of Benjamin The genealogy continues with the sons of Benjamin, highlighting their lineage and the number of their descendants (1 Chronicles 7:6-12). The text emphasizes the importance of family lineage in the tribe of Benjamin. 3. Descendants of Naphtali A brief mention is made of the sons of Naphtali, focusing on their familial connections (1 Chronicles 7:13). This section is concise, reflecting the limited information available about this tribe in this context. 4. Descendants of Manasseh The genealogy of Manasseh is detailed, including the mention of his sons and their descendants (1 Chronicles 7:14-19). The passage highlights the complexity of Manasseh's family tree, which includes both sons and daughters. 5. Descendants of Ephraim The chapter provides an account of the descendants of Ephraim, including a tragic event where some of his sons were killed by the men of Gath (1 Chronicles 7:20-23). This narrative underscores the challenges faced by the tribe of Ephraim. 6. Descendants of Asher The genealogy concludes with the descendants of Asher, noting their numbers and their status as "heads of their families, choice and mighty men of valor" (1 Chronicles 7:40). The Hebrew phrase "רָאשֵׁי בֵית אֲבוֹתָם" (rashei beit avotam) indicates their leadership roles within their families. Topics 1. Descendants of IssacharThe chapter begins with a genealogy of the tribe of Issachar, listing the sons and notable descendants. This section highlights the importance of family lineage and heritage in Israelite society. The Hebrew root for "Issachar" (יִשָּׂשכָר, Yissakhar) reflects the tribe's historical significance. 2. Descendants of Benjamin The genealogy of Benjamin is detailed, emphasizing the tribe's warriors and leaders. This section underscores the martial prowess and strategic importance of Benjamin within the Israelite confederation. The name "Benjamin" (בִּנְיָמִין, Binyamin) means "son of the right hand," indicating favor and strength. 3. Descendants of Naphtali A brief mention of the descendants of Naphtali is included, showing the interconnectedness of the tribes. The Hebrew name "Naphtali" (נַפְתָּלִי, Naphtali) is associated with struggle and wrestling, reflecting the tribe's historical challenges. 4. Descendants of Manasseh The genealogy of Manasseh is presented, highlighting the tribe's expansion and influence. The name "Manasseh" (מְנַשֶּׁה, Menashe) means "causing to forget," which can be linked to Joseph's account of overcoming hardship. 5. Descendants of Ephraim The chapter details the lineage of Ephraim, focusing on their growth and territorial claims. Ephraim's name (אֶפְרַיִם, Ephraim) means "fruitful," symbolizing prosperity and blessing. 6. Descendants of Asher The genealogy of Asher concludes the chapter, emphasizing the tribe's prosperity and abundance. The name "Asher" (אָשֵׁר, Asher) means "happy" or "blessed," reflecting the tribe's favorable status. Each of these genealogies serves to establish the historical and spiritual heritage of the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises through the generations. Themes 1. Genealogical Records1 Chronicles 7 provides detailed genealogies of the tribes of Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Asher. These records emphasize the importance of lineage and heritage in Israel's history. The Hebrew term "תּוֹלְדוֹת" (toledot) often refers to genealogies or generations, underscoring the continuity of God's covenant with His people. 2. Tribal Identity and Heritage The chapter highlights the distinct identities and roles of each tribe within the nation of Israel. This theme reflects the diversity within unity, as each tribe contributes uniquely to the collective identity of God's chosen people. The Hebrew word "שֵׁבֶט" (shevet) for "tribe" signifies a branch or division, indicating both individuality and connection. 3. Military Strength and Valor The genealogies often include references to the military capabilities of the tribes, such as the "mighty men of valor" (1 Chronicles 7:5). This theme underscores the importance of strength and preparedness in fulfilling God's purposes. The Hebrew term "גִּבּוֹר חַיִל" (gibbor chayil) translates to "mighty man of valor," highlighting the valor and courage expected of Israel's warriors. 4. Divine Providence and Blessing The genealogies reflect God's providential care and blessing over the tribes, as seen in the growth and prosperity of their descendants. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "בְּרָכָה" (berakah), meaning blessing, which signifies God's favor and provision for His people. 5. Fulfillment of God's Promises The detailed records serve as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding their descendants. The genealogies affirm God's faithfulness in multiplying the tribes and establishing them in the land. The Hebrew word "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah) for faithfulness highlights God's unwavering commitment to His covenant. 6. Continuity of the Covenant Community The chapter emphasizes the continuity of the covenant community through successive generations. This theme reflects the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel, as each generation is called to uphold and transmit the faith. The Hebrew term "בְּרִית" (berit) for covenant underscores the binding agreement between God and His people. 7. Historical and Cultural Context The genealogies provide insight into the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, offering a glimpse into the social structure and familial relationships of the time. This theme highlights the importance of understanding the past to appreciate the present and future of God's people. The Hebrew word "הִסְטוֹרִיָּה" (historia) relates to the recording and interpretation of historical events. Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 Chronicles 7:2 – How could Tola's descendants realistically grow to a force of 22,600 mighty warriors at that time? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why is the chronicling of lineage so important in 1 Chronicles 7? How does this apply to our understanding of our spiritual heritage? 2. Reflect on the representation of the tribes in terms of their strength and numbers. How does this reflect the provision and blessing of God? 3. How does Ephraim's mourning for his sons in verses 20-24 reflect the reality of human suffering in the midst of lineage records? What does this tell us about the nature of life and faith? 4. How can we relate the detailed genealogies to the sense of community and identity within the church today? 5. In what ways does the chronicling of these tribes reflect the diversity within the unity of Israel? 6. Reflect on the importance of each individual and family within these genealogies. How does this translate into the significance of each believer in the body of Christ? 7. How might the records of the tribes' warrior counts inform our understanding of the conflicts and struggles of ancient Israel? How can we apply these insights to spiritual warfare in our lives today? 8. Despite the tragedy, Ephraim fathers another son (Beriah). What does this suggest about resilience and faith in God during hard times? 9. How might the loss of certain genealogical details (e.g., Naphtali's) reflect the limitations of human record-keeping? How does this contrast with God's omniscience? 10. How can we use the genealogies in Chronicles to better understand and appreciate the historical and cultural context of the Bible? 11. What can we learn from the way ancient Israelites valued their lineage and history? 12. Reflect on how God preserved the lineages of these tribes despite various challenges. What does this tell us about God's faithfulness? 13. How can these genealogies help us understand the complex family dynamics in the Bible? 14. In our current day, we often overlook the importance of our lineage. How might reflecting on this chapter change your perspective about your own family history? 15. How do the lineage and history of these tribes tie into the larger narrative of God's covenant with Israel? 16. How can you relate the persistence and resilience of these tribes in their historical struggles to your personal life? 17. The Bible often presents genealogies alongside stories of human struggle and triumph. How can this chapter inspire you in your walk with God? 18. If you were to write a 'spiritual genealogy' of your faith journey, who would be included, and why? 19. Can these detailed records of tribal lineages enhance our understanding of community and belonging in a spiritual sense? 20. In light of this chapter, how can the church today foster a sense of spiritual lineage and legacy for future generations? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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