What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 2:35? Sheshan gave his daughter • In the genealogy of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:3-55), Sheshan appears after a note that he “had no sons—only daughters” (1 Chronicles 2:34). • By giving his daughter rather than seeking an outside husband, Sheshan takes personal responsibility for the continuation of his family line—a vital concern in Israel where land and inheritance followed male descent (cf. Numbers 36:6-9; Joshua 17:3-6). • Scripture presents this choice as factual history, underscoring that God’s plans often unfold through ordinary family decisions. in marriage to his servant Jarha • Jarha is identified as “his servant,” and earlier as “an Egyptian” (1 Chronicles 2:34). This tells us: – Social barriers could be crossed when faith and covenant loyalty were embraced (Exodus 12:48-49; Isaiah 56:3-8). – The marriage elevated Jarha from servant status into the covenant family, echoing how God welcomes the outsider who turns to Him (Ruth 2:11-12; Ephesians 2:12-19). • Sheshan’s action also protected his daughter. Rather than leaving her future uncertain, he provides a husband within his household, mirroring the care seen in Boaz’s treatment of Ruth (Ruth 3:9-13). and she bore to him Attai • The birth of Attai confirms that Sheshan’s lineage continues despite the initial absence of sons. Every name in the genealogy, even one mentioned only once, testifies to God’s faithfulness generation after generation (Psalm 145:4). • Attai’s appearance only here shows that Scripture values every person, not merely the famous. The chronicler includes him because the accuracy of the record matters (1 Chronicles 1:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:16). • Through this birth the larger line of Judah advances, keeping open the path that will ultimately lead to the Messiah (Matthew 1:2-3). summary 1 Chronicles 2:35 records a quiet but significant moment: Sheshan, lacking sons, wisely gives his daughter to his trustworthy Egyptian servant Jarha, and God rewards that decision with a son, Attai. The verse illustrates covenant inclusivity, responsible family stewardship, and the unbroken thread of God’s purposes in history—reminding us that every obedient choice, however small, fits into His larger, sovereign plan. |
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