Shobal

Shobal is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah. He is identified as a descendant of Seir the Horite and is associated with the lineage of Caleb. Shobal is noted as the father of several clans within the tribe of Judah, indicating his significance in the tribal structure and his role in the settlement patterns of the Israelites.

In 1 Chronicles 2:50-52 , Shobal is mentioned as the son of Caleb, the son of Hur, and the father of Kiriath-jearim. The passage states: "These were the descendants of Caleb. The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim, Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth-gader." This highlights Shobal's connection to Kiriath-jearim, a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah, which later became a center for religious activity, including the temporary housing of the Ark of the Covenant.

Shobal's lineage is further detailed in 1 Chronicles 4:1-2 , where he is listed among the sons of Judah: "The descendants of Judah: Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal. Reaiah son of Shobal was the father of Jahath, and Jahath was the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These were the clans of the Zorathites." This passage underscores Shobal's role as a progenitor of the Zorathite clans, contributing to the broader genealogical framework of the tribe of Judah.

Salma

Salma is another prominent figure in the genealogies of Judah, recognized as the father of Bethlehem. His mention in the biblical text underscores the importance of Bethlehem as a key location in Israel's history, particularly as the birthplace of King David and, according to Christian tradition, Jesus Christ.

In 1 Chronicles 2:51 , Salma is identified as the father of Bethlehem: "Salma the father of Bethlehem." This brief yet significant mention links Salma to one of the most historically and theologically significant towns in the biblical narrative. Bethlehem's association with Salma highlights the town's early establishment and its role within the tribal allotment of Judah.

Salma's lineage is also connected to the broader genealogical records of Judah, as seen in 1 Chronicles 2:54 : "The descendants of Salma: Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Atroth-beth-joab, half the Manahathites, the Zorites." This passage indicates that Salma's descendants were influential in various regions, further emphasizing his importance in the tribal structure and settlement of Judah.

Hareph

Hareph is a lesser-known figure in the genealogies of Judah, mentioned as the father of Beth-gader. His inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, contributes to the understanding of the familial and territorial organization within the tribe of Judah.

In 1 Chronicles 2:51 , Hareph is listed alongside Shobal and Salma: "Hareph the father of Beth-gader." This mention associates Hareph with Beth-gader, a location whose exact historical and geographical details remain uncertain. However, the inclusion of Hareph in the genealogical record suggests his role in the establishment or leadership of this area within Judah's territory.

While the biblical text provides limited information about Hareph, his mention alongside figures like Shobal and Salma indicates his place within the broader narrative of Judah's tribal history and the settlement patterns of the Israelites.