Understanding 1 Chronicles 2:26

Verse: 1 Chronicles 2:26 - "And Jerahmeel had also another wife, whose name was Atarah; she was the mother of Onam."

Summary of the Verse Meaning

This verse presents genealogical details concerning the family of Jerahmeel, a descendant of Judah. The mention of his wife Atarah and their son Onam contributes to the broader narrative of the lineage of the tribes of Israel, which is significant for understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham and Jacob in relation to the heritage of the tribes. This genealogical record serves multiple purposes in biblical writing, including establishing heritage, continuity, and God’s covenant through successive generations.

Commentary Insights

The commentaries from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide further depth on the genealogy presented in this verse.

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of genealogies in the Bible, which serve to confirm the fidelity of God's covenant. He points out that traditional family lines may appear unimportant, yet they signify profound truths about God’s promise to His people through their ancestry.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes remarks on the significance of the names mentioned, interpreting them as part of a broader theme of family and heritage in the history of Israel. He highlights that the inclusiveness of women in genealogies, such as Atarah, underscores the value of all members of the community in God's unfolding plan.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke adds that understanding the names and relationships within genealogical records provides insight into the historical context of ancient Israel. He draws attention to Atarah as a significant figure, as every mother contributes to the legacy of faith within the community.

Common Themes and Connections

1 Chronicles 2:26 situates itself within a larger biblical narrative and can be interconnected with several themes and related scriptures:

• Confirmation of God’s Promises:

  Genesis 28:14 - God's promise to Jacob about his descendants being a multitude.

• Value of Ancestors in Faith:

  Hebrews 11:2 - The elders in the faith obtained a good report through their lineage and actions.

• The Role of Women in Genealogies:

  Matthew 1:3 - Tamar is mentioned in Jesus' genealogy, showing the significance of women in the lineage of Christ.

• Importance of Family Background:

  Exodus 6:14 - The families of the tribes of Israel are outlined, showcasing God’s order in heritage.

• Tribal Inheritance:

  Numbers 26:55 - The allotment of land to the tribes of Israel demonstrates the importance of genealogy.

• Significance of Names:

  Revelation 2:17 - The promise of a new name for believers signifies the transformation through God's calling.

• Understanding the Lineage of David:

  1 Samuel 16:1 - The lineage leading to David highlights the importance of family trees in scripture.

Applications for Study

For those studying the Bible, understanding 1 Chronicles 2:26 can enhance Bible study through:

• Bible Cross-reference Guide: Identify how genealogies link to the fulfillment of promises in scripture.
• Cross-referencing Bible Study: Compare genealogical passages to understand the overall narrative of salvation history.
• Comprehensive Bible Cross-reference Materials: Utilize tools like a Bible concordance to explore names and their significance.

Further Reflections

This verse is a reminder of how every person and relationship, even those seemingly insignificant, plays a role in God’s grand narrative. Therefore, the study of genealogies serves to deepen our understanding of our faith heritage and how God faithfully works through human lines to accomplish His purposes.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Chronicles 2:26 underlines the importance of genealogies, connects to broader themes regarding God's promises and faithfulness, and emphasizes the significance of every member in God's community. As such, it invites readers to explore the rich interconnections within biblical texts through cross-referencing and thematic studies.