1 Chronicles 3:3

the fifth was Shephatiah by Abital; and the sixth was Ithream by his wife Eglah.

Study Bible

the fifth Shephatiah
The name "Shephatiah" means "Yahweh has judged" in Hebrew. This name reflects a common theme in the Bible where names often signify divine actions or attributes. The use of "the fifth" indicates the order of birth among David's sons, emphasizing the structured lineage and the importance of genealogy in Israelite culture. This reflects the meticulous record-keeping and the value placed on heritage and divine order.

by Abital
Abital's name means "my father is dew," which can symbolize blessing and life-giving sustenance, as dew was crucial for agriculture in ancient Israel. Her mention here, though brief, highlights the role of women in the lineage of David, even if their accounts are not extensively detailed. It underscores the importance of each individual in God's plan, regardless of the amount of information provided about them.

the sixth Ithream
"Ithream" means "abundance of people" or "excellent people," suggesting a sense of prosperity and blessing. The designation "the sixth" again points to the order and structure within David's family, which is significant in understanding the historical and theological context of the Davidic line. This order is not just a matter of record but also a reflection of God's providential arrangement of history.

by his wife Eglah
Eglah's name means "heifer" in Hebrew, which might seem unusual but can be understood as a symbol of fertility and strength. The phrase "his wife" indicates a legitimate union, which was important for the recognition of offspring in the royal lineage. This highlights the sanctity of marriage and the importance of legitimate heirs in the continuation of God's covenant promises through David's line.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shephatiah
The fifth son of King David, born to him by Abital. His name means "Yahweh has judged" in Hebrew, reflecting a common practice of naming children with a reference to God.

2. Abital
One of King David's wives, the mother of Shephatiah. Her name means "my father is dew," which can symbolize blessing and renewal.

3. Ithream
The sixth son of King David, born to him by Eglah. His name means "abundance of people" or "profit of the people," indicating a hope for prosperity or growth.

4. Eglah
Another wife of King David, the mother of Ithream. Her name means "heifer," which in biblical times could symbolize fertility and strength.

5. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his complex family dynamics, which are detailed in the genealogies and accounts of the Old Testament.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Family Dynamics
David's family, with multiple wives and children, reflects the complexity and challenges of family life. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's wisdom in family relationships.

The Significance of Names
The names of David's sons and wives often carry meanings that reflect their parents' hopes or God's attributes. This highlights the importance of considering the spiritual significance in our own naming and identity.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
Despite the complexities and imperfections in David's family, God sovereignly worked through his lineage to fulfill His promises, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ. This encourages us to trust in God's plan, even when our circumstances seem complicated.

The Role of Women in Biblical Narratives
The mention of David's wives, though brief, acknowledges their role in the unfolding of God's plan. It reminds us to value and recognize the contributions of women in our own faith communities.

The Consequences of Disobedience
David's multiple marriages, contrary to God's design for marriage, led to family strife and conflict. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the names of David's sons and wives reflect their cultural and spiritual significance, and what can we learn from this about the importance of names today?

2. In what ways do the family dynamics of David's household illustrate the challenges of living in a fallen world, and how can we apply these lessons to our own family relationships?

3. How does the account of David's family in 1 Chronicles 3:3 connect to the broader account of God's promise to establish David's lineage, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness?

4. Considering Deuteronomy 17:17, what lessons can we learn from David's life about the importance of obedience to God's commands, especially in leadership roles?

5. How can we recognize and appreciate the roles of women in biblical accounts, and how does this influence our understanding of gender roles in the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 3:2-5
This passage provides a parallel account of the sons born to David in Hebron, offering additional context to the family dynamics and the political implications of his marriages.

1 Chronicles 14:3-7
Chronicles David's family expansion in Jerusalem, showing the continuation of his lineage and the fulfillment of God's promise to establish his house.

Deuteronomy 17:17
This verse warns against kings taking many wives, which can lead to their hearts being led astray. David's multiple marriages and the resulting family complexities can be seen in light of this warning.