1 Chronicles 2:52

These were the descendants of Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim: Haroeh, half the Manahathites,

Study Bible

These were the descendants of Shobal
Shobal is identified as a descendant of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His lineage is significant in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah, which is the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. Shobal's mention here highlights the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises through specific family lines.

the father of Kiriath-jearim
Kiriath-jearim was a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah, located near the border with Benjamin. It is historically important as the place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept for a time before being moved to Jerusalem by King David (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The city's name means "City of Forests," indicating its geographical setting. Shobal being called the "father" of Kiriath-jearim suggests he was a founder or leader of the city, which was a common way to denote leadership or establishment in ancient times.

Haroeh
Haroeh is a name that appears in the genealogical records, but little is known about him outside of this context. The name itself means "the seer" or "the visionary," which could imply a role of spiritual or prophetic significance, although this is speculative. The inclusion of Haroeh in the genealogy underscores the detailed record-keeping of the Israelites and their emphasis on preserving family histories.

half the Manahathites
The Manahathites were a group or clan within the tribe of Judah. The reference to "half" the Manahathites suggests a division within the clan, possibly indicating a split in territory or leadership. This division could reflect historical or familial circumstances that led to the separation of the group. The mention of the Manahathites connects to the broader narrative of the tribes of Israel and their complex interrelations, which are often detailed in the genealogies to show the fulfillment of God's covenant promises through diverse and sometimes divided family lines.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shobal
A descendant of Judah, Shobal is noted as the father of Kiriath-jearim, a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah. His lineage is part of the genealogical record that traces the heritage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites.

2. Kiriath-jearim
A city in the territory of Judah, known for its association with the Ark of the Covenant, which was kept there for a time before being moved to Jerusalem by King David.

3. Haroeh
A descendant of Shobal, mentioned in the genealogical records. The name Haroeh can be linked to the Hebrew root "ra'ah," meaning "to see" or "to shepherd," suggesting a role or characteristic of leadership or oversight.

4. Manahathites
A group or clan associated with the descendants of Shobal. The term "half of the Manahathites" indicates a division or subset within this group, possibly reflecting a familial or territorial distinction.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genealogy in Scripture
Genealogies in the Bible serve to connect individuals to the larger account of God's people, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises through generations.

Significance of Places in God's Plan
Locations like Kiriath-jearim are not just geographical markers but are integral to the unfolding of God's redemptive history, reminding us of the importance of place in our own spiritual journeys.

Leadership and Legacy
The mention of Haroeh and the Manahathites highlights the roles of leadership and community within God's people. We are called to consider how our own lives contribute to the legacy of faith in our families and communities.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogical records remind us of God's faithfulness to His promises, encouraging us to trust in His continued work in our lives and the lives of future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 2:52 help us understand the broader account of Israel's history?

2. What is the significance of Kiriath-jearim in the context of Israel's worship, and how can this inform our understanding of the importance of place in our spiritual lives?

3. In what ways can we see the theme of leadership and legacy in the mention of Haroeh and the Manahathites, and how can we apply this to our own roles in our communities?

4. How do the genealogies in 1 Chronicles encourage us to reflect on God's faithfulness in our own family histories?

5. Considering the connections to other scriptures, how does the account of Kiriath-jearim and the Ark of the Covenant inspire us to seek God's presence in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 7:1-2
This passage describes the Ark of the Covenant being brought to Kiriath-jearim and staying there for twenty years, highlighting the city's significance in Israel's religious history.

Joshua 15:60
Lists Kiriath-jearim as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Judah, connecting the genealogical records to the territorial divisions established during the conquest of Canaan.

1 Chronicles 13:5-6
Describes King David's efforts to bring the Ark from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem, emphasizing the city's role in the broader account of Israel's worship and the centralization of religious practices.