What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 8:16? Michael “Michael,” (1 Chronicles 8:16) • Listed first, which often signals leadership or prominence in a family line (cf. Genesis 49:3; 1 Chronicles 5:1). • Other Benjaminites named Michael served faithfully—one defected to David (1 Chronicles 12:20), mirroring valor later seen in the tribe. • Whether the well-known archangel in Daniel 10:13 or this lesser-known son, God records every name that belongs to His people (cf. Isaiah 49:16). Ishpah “…Ishpah…” • Almost nothing else is said of Ishpah, yet Scripture preserves him, teaching that obscurity to men is not obscurity to God (cf. Psalm 87:5-6). • The Chronicler wrote after the exile to reassure Israel that every clan—and therefore every individual—still had a place (Ezra 2:59-62). • His presence in the genealogy underscores covenant continuity despite scattering and hardship (Jeremiah 31:35-37). Joha “…and Joha…” • Appears again in the same chapter (1 Chronicles 8:23), suggesting his line continued to grow. • Placed among kinsmen who “drove away the inhabitants of Gath” (1 Chronicles 8:13), hinting that the family shared in tribal courage. • God values both celebrated deeds and quiet faithfulness; every part of the body matters (1 Corinthians 12:22). were the sons “…were the sons…” • Emphasizes the blessing of children promised to Israel (Deuteronomy 7:13; Psalm 127:3-5). • Signals shared identity; no lone believers—brothers stand together (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). • Points forward to the ultimate Son through whom all families of the earth are blessed (Isaiah 9:6; Galatians 3:16). of Beriah “…of Beriah.” • Beriah and his brother Shema led men who repelled the Philistines (1 Chronicles 8:13), marking him as courageous. • Belongs to the clan of Elpaal in Benjamin—the tribe of King Saul (1 Samuel 9:1-2) and the apostle Paul (Romans 11:1). • Shows God keeps covenant across generations; faithful fathers leave a godly legacy (Proverbs 20:7) that survives exile and restoration (Jeremiah 29:10-14). summary 1 Chronicles 8:16 names Michael, Ishpah, and Joha to affirm that every life, famous or forgotten, fits into God’s unfolding plan. Standing as Beriah’s sons, they illustrate the blessing of family, the strength of brotherhood, and the assurance that the Lord faithfully preserves His people’s lineage—and His promises—from one generation to the next. |
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