What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 1:47? When Hadad died • Scripture is plain that every earthly ruler has an endpoint (Psalm 90:10; Hebrews 9:27). Hadad’s death marks yet another transition in the line of Edomite kings listed in Genesis 36:31-39 and 1 Chronicles 1:43-54. • The chronicler’s quiet “when” reminds us that time rolls on under God’s oversight (Job 14:5; Acts 17:26). Kings rise and fall, but the Lord’s covenant purposes—first spoken to Abraham (Genesis 17:7) and ultimately fulfilled in Christ (Luke 1:32-33)—march steadily forward. Samlah • Samlah steps onto the stage without fanfare, showing that significance in Scripture often lies not in human achievement but in God’s unfolding record (1 Samuel 2:7-8; Daniel 2:21). • Like the other Edomite rulers, Samlah descends from Esau (Genesis 36:1), highlighting the promise that “nations” would come through Abraham’s line (Genesis 25:23). Even distant relatives are tethered to God’s larger redemptive plan (Obadiah 1:10-11). from Masrekah • The specific hometown roots this king in real geography (Genesis 36:36), reminding readers that biblical history is factual, not mythical (Luke 3:1-2). • Masrekah means “vineyard region,” suggesting a fertile area in Edom (Numbers 20:21). God’s common grace blesses even nations outside Israel, yet prosperity apart from covenant faith cannot save (Acts 14:16-17). reigned in his place • The phrase signals orderly succession—no single monarch in Edom held perpetual power. Every ruler was temporary (Ecclesiastes 1:4; James 4:14). • By contrast, Israel was destined for an everlasting throne in the line of David (2 Samuel 7:12-13; Luke 1:33). The chronicler sets the stage for that comparison: transient Edomite rule versus the coming eternal King (Revelation 11:15). • The verse also underscores personal responsibility; when one leader passes, another answers for the nation (Proverbs 14:34). Leadership changes, but the moral accountability before the Lord remains constant (Romans 14:12). summary 1 Chronicles 1:47 is more than a dry footnote. It testifies that earthly rulers die, successors arise, and God’s timetable moves on without interruption. Samlah’s brief mention confirms Scripture’s historical precision, highlights Edom’s place in the wider Abrahamic story, and contrasts passing human thrones with the everlasting reign of Christ. |
    |