What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 8:23? Abdon “Abdon, Zichri, Hanan” (1 Chronicles 8:23) • The chronicler is carefully recording the sons of Benjamin. By listing Abdon first, the Spirit reminds us that every member of God’s covenant people is noticed and recorded (compare Exodus 1:1–5; Luke 10:20). • This Abdon stands in a long line of Benjamites who served the nation. Another Abdon, centuries earlier, judged Israel for eight years (Judges 12:13-15). While not necessarily the same man, that earlier judge shows how the tribe repeatedly produced leaders who delivered God’s people—anticipating the apostle Paul, a Benjamite who preached deliverance in Christ (Philippians 3:5; Acts 13:38-39). • Abdon’s placement between earlier verses detailing warriors (1 Chronicles 8:20-22) and later verses naming gatekeepers (8:24-28) highlights how the tribe supplied both fighters and guardians. God equips His people with varied gifts but one shared purpose: safeguarding the worship of the LORD (Ephesians 4:11-13). Zichri “Abdon, Zichri, Hanan” (1 Chronicles 8:23) • Zichri appears again among Levites who returned from exile to serve in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:15) and as father of Eliezer, a leader who helped overthrow Queen Athaliah’s tyranny (2 Chronicles 23:1). These scattered references show that descendants of Benjamin moved beyond their tribal borders to strengthen the whole nation. • God’s record-keeping bridges centuries: a name in an obscure genealogy later surfaces at a decisive moment in redemptive history. That continuity assures us nothing done for the LORD is forgotten (Hebrews 6:10). • Zichri’s linking role between generations mirrors the charge given to fathers and mothers to teach God’s works to their children (Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Psalm 78:4). Hanan “Abdon, Zichri, Hanan” (1 Chronicles 8:23) • Chronicles lists several men named Hanan. One fought alongside David’s mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:43); another supervised city gates after the exile (1 Chronicles 26:9). Together they reveal a pattern: men of courage and reliability emerging from the same tribal stock. • By ending the verse with Hanan, Scripture subtly links Benjamin’s household to broader covenant service—first in the monarchy under David, later in temple administration after captivity. The LORD maintains His promises throughout every political shift (Psalm 33:11; Malachi 3:6). • Each mention of Hanan underscores God’s ability to raise up servants for battle or for watchfulness as circumstances require (Nehemiah 4:9; 1 Peter 4:10-11). summary 1 Chronicles 8:23 may seem like a simple trio of names, yet it quietly affirms that every individual in God’s family matters, every generation connects to His unfolding plan, and every calling—whether judge, protector, warrior, or gatekeeper—fits into His faithful covenant care. |
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