What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 5:8? Bela son of Azaz • Scripture introduces “Bela son of Azaz” as one of Reuben’s descendants, anchoring him firmly in a real family line (1 Chronicles 5:8; compare 1 Chronicles 5:3–7). • Genealogies affirm God’s faithfulness: every name proves He keeps covenant promises all the way from Abraham to each individual (Genesis 17:7; Galatians 3:29). • There is another Bela in Benjamin’s tribe (Genesis 46:21), reminding us Scripture carefully distinguishes similarly named people, underscoring its historical precision. son of Shema • “Azaz” is identified as “the son of Shema,” advancing the family record back one more generation (1 Chronicles 5:8). • God values generational continuity; honoring fathers and mothers carries blessing (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2-3). • Shema’s name, recorded forever, assures ordinary believers that God notices every faithful life (Malachi 3:16). son of Joel • The line finally traces to Joel, the patriarch of this branch of Reuben (1 Chronicles 5:4). • Joel’s leadership mattered: “Joel the chief, and Shapham the second” (1 Chronicles 5:12). • Cross references: Numbers 26:5-7 lists Reuben’s clans; Joel’s inclusion ties the Chronicler’s record to Moses’ census, reinforcing reliability. They settled in Aroer • After the exodus, Reuben’s descendants claimed land east of the Jordan (Numbers 32:1-5). • Aroer sat on the Arnon River’s northern rim, marking the southern extent of Reuben’s territory (Joshua 13:15-16). • Reubenites rebuilt the city (Numbers 32:34), demonstrating stewardship of God-given inheritance. as far as Nebo • The phrase “as far as Nebo” (1 Chronicles 5:8) outlines the territory’s breadth northward. • Nebo later became famous as Moses’ vantage point before his death (Deuteronomy 34:1). • Reuben’s presence there shows God fulfilled His promise of land despite Moses never entering it personally. and Baal-meon • Baal-meon lay slightly northwest of Nebo (Numbers 32:38). • Though its original name referenced the Canaanite god Baal, Numbers 32:38 notes the Reubenites “changed the names,” rejecting idolatry and dedicating the site to the LORD. • Occupying and renaming Baal-meon symbolizes believers’ call to transform culture rather than absorb its idols (Romans 12:2). summary 1 Chronicles 5:8 roots Bela, Azaz, Shema, and Joel firmly in Reuben’s lineage, then maps their settlement from Aroer northward to Nebo and Baal-meon. The genealogy validates Scripture’s historical accuracy; the geography proves God’s promise of land came true. Every name and location highlights God’s care for individuals, families, and territories, urging today’s believers to trust His faithfulness, honor their heritage, and occupy their God-given callings with unwavering devotion. |
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