What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 4:1? The descendants of Judah Chronicles pauses at this point in the larger genealogy to spotlight the tribe through which God promised both kingship and, ultimately, Messiah (Genesis 49:10; Matthew 1:1). By introducing five names at the head of Judah’s long line, the writer reassures the post-exilic community—and us—that God kept His covenant to preserve this tribe. Every name that follows in the chapter hangs on this opening phrase. Perez • Firstborn of the twins born to Judah and Tamar (Genesis 38:27-30). • His line leads to Salmon, Boaz, Obed, Jesse, David, and finally Jesus (Ruth 4:18-22; Matthew 1:3-6). • Chronicles begins with Perez to underline that God redeems messy stories. Even scandal cannot derail His plan to bring the Redeemer through Judah. Hezron • Listed among Jacob’s household entering Egypt (Genesis 46:12). • Father of two important branches: one through Ram leading to David (1 Chronicles 2:9-15) and another settling in Gilead (Numbers 26:21). • His inclusion reminds us that, while Perez shows redemption, Hezron shows expansion—Judah’s family multiplied even in foreign land, fulfilling God’s promise of fruitfulness (Exodus 1:7). Carmi • Son of Hezron (1 Chronicles 2:9). • Likely ancestor of the “Carmites,” a clan counted at Sinai (Numbers 26:6). • Not the same Carmi who fathered Achan of the tribe of Judah (Joshua 7:1), yet his name highlights that each family line bears responsibility for its own faithfulness. Hur • Grandson of Hezron through Caleb’s line (1 Chronicles 2:19-20). • Tradition identifies him with the Hur who helped Moses hold up his hands during Israel’s battle with Amalek (Exodus 17:10-12) and whose grandson Bezalel crafted the tabernacle (Exodus 31:2). • He embodies servant leadership—supporting roles that enable victory and worship. Shobal • Son of Hur and “father of Kiriath-jearim,” a key city where the ark rested (1 Chronicles 2:50-52; 13:5-6). • Through Shobal the tribe of Judah influenced geography as well as genealogy; their towns became centers of worship and history. summary 1 Chronicles 4:1 is more than a roll call; it is a five-point reminder that God’s covenant with Judah is intact. • Perez shows redemption. • Hezron shows growth. • Carmi shows accountability. • Hur shows supportive leadership. • Shobal shows territorial influence. Together they form a foundation on which the chronicler will build Judah’s story—and, by extension, the story of our Savior—proving that every name matters in God’s faithful, unfolding plan. |
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