What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 7:18? His sister • The pronoun points back to Gilead (v. 17), a grandson of Manasseh. By mentioning “his sister,” the Chronicler signals that God considers every member of the covenant family significant, not only the sons (cf. Numbers 26:29–33, where the daughters of Zelophehad are likewise named). • Genesis 2:24 and Ephesians 5:31 remind us that family connections matter to God; here, even a sibling relationship is recorded for all generations. • The verse teaches that God’s purposes flow through both men and women. Compare Exodus 15:20 (Miriam) and Acts 21:9 (Philip’s daughters), where women are integral to the story of redemption. Hammolecheth • One of the few women named in the tribal genealogies, she stands as a witness that God values each individual, regardless of gender or social status (Galatians 3:28). • Her place in the record safeguards tribal inheritance lines, echoing the care taken in Ruth 4:13-17 to preserve lineage for future blessing. Gave birth to • Scripture consistently frames childbirth as God’s gracious gift (Psalm 127:3; Genesis 1:28). The Chronicler therefore notes births to highlight divine faithfulness to the promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3). • Every birth listed pushes the tribe toward the moment when Gideon the judge (an Abiezrite) would arise, illustrating Romans 8:28: God works through ordinary family events to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Ishhod • Although Ishhod is not mentioned elsewhere, his inclusion tells us that no believer is forgotten before the Lord (Isaiah 49:16). • Hidden names in Scripture encourage hidden saints today—those who serve quietly, trusting that “your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:4). Abiezer • Abiezer’s descendants become the clan from which Gideon comes (Judges 6:11, 24, 34). God was already planting the seed for future deliverance centuries in advance. • Joshua 17:2 lists “the children of Abiezer,” showing the clan’s recognized standing among Manasseh. This underscores God’s long-range planning and covenant loyalty (Deuteronomy 7:9). Mahlah • Another Mahlah appears among Zelophehad’s daughters (Numbers 27:1-7). The repetition of the name within the same tribe indicates shared heritage and serves as a reminder of God’s concern for rightful inheritance. • Joshua 17:3-6 records those daughters receiving land, reaffirming that God secures a place for His people—male or female—in His promises (John 14:2). summary • The verse records a sister, Hammolecheth, whose motherhood advances the line of Manasseh. • It honors women as vital conduits of God’s covenant blessings. • Each child—whether well known like Abiezer or obscure like Ishhod—shows that God weaves every life into His redemptive tapestry. • Genealogical notices such as this assure believers today that God’s eye is on every detail and every person, fulfilling His purposes through families, generations, and seemingly small events. |
    |