1 Chronicles 2:47

The sons of Jahdai: Regem, Jotham, Geshan, Pelet, Ephah, and Shaaph.

Study Bible

The sons of Jahdai:
Jahdai is a relatively obscure figure in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. His mention here highlights the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the tribes of Israel. Genealogies served to establish identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliations. This emphasis on lineage is seen throughout the Old Testament, underscoring the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants.

Regem:
The name Regem means "friend" or "companion." While there is little specific information about Regem, the inclusion of his name in the genealogy signifies the continuation of Jahdai's line. Names in biblical genealogies often carry significant meanings or reflect the character or destiny of the individual.

Jotham:
Jotham, meaning "Yahweh is perfect" or "Yahweh is complete," is a name shared by other notable biblical figures, including a king of Judah. The repetition of names across different genealogies can indicate common cultural or religious values, as names often reflect the faith and aspirations of the family.

Geshan:
Geshan is another name with limited biblical information. The presence of such names in genealogies serves to connect the broader narrative of Israel's history, showing the diversity and complexity of the tribes and families that make up the nation.

Pelet:
Pelet means "deliverance" or "escape." This name may reflect a hope or prayer for divine intervention or protection, a common theme in the lives of the Israelites. The concept of deliverance is central to the biblical narrative, with God repeatedly delivering His people from various forms of bondage and danger.

Ephah:
Ephah is a name that appears elsewhere in the Bible, including as a Midianite tribe. The name means "darkness" or "gloom," which could symbolize a period of hardship or trial. The inclusion of such names in genealogies may serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by the ancestors of Israel and God's faithfulness in bringing them through.

Shaaph:
Shaaph means "bald" or "bare." While the name itself may not carry significant theological weight, its inclusion in the genealogy underscores the importance of each individual in the unfolding story of God's people. Every name, regardless of its prominence, contributes to the tapestry of Israel's history and God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jahdai
A lesser-known figure in the genealogies of Judah, Jahdai is listed as the father of six sons. His name means "Jehovah directs" or "Jehovah guides," reflecting a divine influence in his lineage.

2. Regem
One of Jahdai's sons, his name means "friend" or "companion," suggesting a role of support or fellowship within the family.

3. Jotham
Another son of Jahdai, sharing a name with a more prominent biblical figure, King Jotham of Judah. The name means "Jehovah is perfect."

4. Geshan
A son of Jahdai, his name is less common and its meaning is not well-documented, but it may imply strength or support.

5. Pelet
His name means "deliverance" or "escape," possibly indicating a role or characteristic valued in his family or community.

6. Ephah
A son of Jahdai, his name means "darkness" or "gloom," which could reflect a period or aspect of his life or the times he lived in.

7. Shaaph
The last son listed, his name means "bald" or "bare," which might symbolize humility or simplicity.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genealogies
Genealogies in the Bible serve to connect individuals to God's larger plan. They remind us that every person has a place in God's account, even if they are not well-known.

Names and Their Meanings
The meanings of names in the Bible often reflect character traits or divine purposes. Reflect on the significance of your own name and how it might relate to your identity in Christ.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
The inclusion of lesser-known figures like Jahdai and his sons highlights God's sovereignty in using all people, regardless of their prominence, to fulfill His purposes.

Legacy and Influence
Consider the legacy you are building. How are you influencing your family and community in a way that aligns with God's will?

Faithfulness in the Ordinary
Many biblical figures lived ordinary lives, yet their faithfulness contributed to God's extraordinary plan. Embrace your role, however small it may seem, in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the inclusion of lesser-known figures like Jahdai in the biblical genealogies?

2. How do the meanings of the names of Jahdai's sons reflect their potential roles or characteristics? How does this apply to understanding our own names and identities?

3. In what ways do genealogies in the Bible, such as those in 1 Chronicles, connect to the larger account of God's plan for salvation?

4. How can understanding our spiritual heritage and lineage in Christ influence our daily walk with God?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt your role was insignificant. How does this passage encourage you to see the value in every part of God's plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3
These genealogies also trace the lineage of Judah, showing the importance of family lines in biblical history and prophecy, particularly in relation to the Messiah.

1 Chronicles 4:1-23
This passage continues the genealogies of Judah, providing further context and connections to the broader account of Israel's history.

Genesis 49:8-12
Jacob's blessing to Judah, which sets the stage for the significance of Judah's descendants, including those listed in 1 Chronicles.