Topical Encyclopedia Ephlal is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah. He is noted as a descendant of Pharez, one of the twin sons of Judah and Tamar. The lineage of Pharez is significant in the biblical narrative as it is through this line that King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ are descended, highlighting the importance of Ephlal's place within this genealogy.Biblical Reference: Ephlal is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 2:9, 37, where the chronicler provides a detailed account of the descendants of Judah. The passage reads: "The sons of Hezron who were born to him: Jerahmeel, Ram, and Caleb. ... Zabad was the father of Ephlal, Ephlal the father of Obed" (1 Chronicles 2:9, 37). This genealogical record situates Ephlal within the broader context of the tribe of Judah, emphasizing the continuity and preservation of the lineage that would lead to the Davidic monarchy. Genealogical Significance: Ephlal's mention in the genealogies underscores the meticulous care with which the chronicler records the lineage of Judah. The tribe of Judah holds a place of prominence in Israel's history, being the tribe from which David, the second king of Israel, emerged. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to affirm the legitimacy and divine selection of David's line, which is central to the messianic prophecies fulfilled in the New Testament. Cultural and Theological Context: In the cultural context of ancient Israel, genealogies were not merely records of ancestry but were also vital for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliations. Ephlal's inclusion in the genealogical record reflects the importance of maintaining an unbroken line from the patriarchs to the monarchy, which was seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Theologically, the line of Pharez, through which Ephlal descends, is significant because it demonstrates God's sovereignty and faithfulness in using imperfect human circumstances to bring about His divine purposes. The account of Judah and Tamar, from which Pharez was born, is a testament to God's ability to redeem and use even the most complex human situations for His glory and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Conclusion: Ephlal, though a relatively obscure figure, is part of a crucial genealogical chain that underscores the providential unfolding of God's plan for Israel and the world. His place in the lineage of Judah highlights the continuity of God's promises and the anticipation of the coming Messiah, who would emerge from this line to fulfill the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 2:37And Zabad begat Ephlal, and Ephlal begat Obed, Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Obed in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |