How does 1 Chronicles 9:43 fit into the genealogy of Saul's family? Contextual Snapshot of Saul’s Line in Chronicles - 1 Chronicles 8 details Benjamin’s clan and moves toward Saul (vv. 29-40). - 1 Chronicles 9 recounts post-exilic resettlement lists, then circles back to Saul’s house (vv. 35-44). - The Chronicler ends both chapters with Saul’s descendants to underline the continuity of Benjamin’s royal family even after the exile. Family Chain Leading to 1 Chronicles 9:43 Kish → Saul → Jonathan → Merib-baal (Mephibosheth) → Micah → Ahaz → Jarah → • Alemeth • Azmaveth • Zimri → Moza → Binea → Rephaiah → Eleasah → Azel (v. 43 introduces the final four bolded links) Verse 43 Itself “Moza fathered Binea. His son was Rephaiah, who was the father of Eleasah, who was the father of Azel.” What Verse 43 Contributes - Continues the Jonathan/Merib-baal branch several generations beyond the events of 2 Samuel. - Bridges the time from early monarchy to the Chronicler’s day, showing that Saul’s lineage endured into the post-exilic period. - Prepares for v. 44, which lists Azel’s six sons, giving a complete picture for temple records and tribal allotments. Why the Chronicler Emphasizes This Line - Historical accuracy: Chronicles treats genealogies as factual records guarding tribal inheritances (cf. Numbers 26:53-56). - Tribal identity: The returned Benjamites could verify descent from the first king, reinforcing their place among post-exilic Israel. - Covenantal witness: Even though the kingship moved to David (2 Samuel 7), God preserved Saul’s house, illustrating His faithfulness (cf. Psalm 89:34). - Messianic backdrop: By keeping every major royal line intact in Scripture, God highlights His sovereign hand in history leading to Christ (Matthew 1:1-17). Take-Home Points - Genealogies are more than lists; they testify that God remembers names and keeps promises across centuries. - Saul’s family, though stripped of the throne, was never erased—showing grace alongside judgment. - 1 Chronicles 9:43 stands as a quiet reminder that every generation matters in God’s unfolding plan. |
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