Bible Verse Meaning: 1 Chronicles 23:17
1 Chronicles 23:17 states: "And the sons of Benjamin; Bela, the son of Azaz, the son of Ahitub."
Summary of Meaning
This verse provides a genealogical record which is significant in establishing the lineage of the Levites and priests. Understanding the context and implications of this verse is important for recognizing the continuity of the priesthood and God’s covenant with Israel.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of the genealogies within the Bible, noting that they serve not just as records, but as markers of God’s faithfulness to His promises. He comments that the mention of sons reflects not only lineage but also the responsibilities that come with their roles in worship and service to God.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Albert Barnes highlights the significance of the Levites and their role in the temple service. He points out that these genealogies affirm the identities of the priestly class and stress the importance of accurate records in maintaining proper worship protocols. This accountability shows how serious the Israelites were about their covenant relationship with God.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke probes the historical implications of the names mentioned. He suggests that genealogies like these were crucial for preserving the history and identity of the tribes, especially during the post-exilic return to Jerusalem. Clarke notes that this particular line from Benjamin is important to understand the priestly and political dynamics of the time.
Bible Verse Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 9:1-2 - Discusses the lineage of Saul, connecting to the tribe of Benjamin.
- Ezra 7:1-5 - Outlines the priestly lineage after the Babylonian exile.
- Hebrews 7:14 - Refers to Jesus' lineage and the significance of being from the tribe of Judah, contrasting with Levi.
- Matthew 1:12-16 - Provides the genealogy of Jesus, linking to the historical records of the tribes.
- Jeremiah 33:17-22 - God’s promise regarding the continuity of David's line and the priests.
- Lamentations 5:9-10 - Reflects on the suffering of the people, stressing the importance of proper worship.
- Nehemiah 12:1-7 - Additional genealogies of the priests and Levites post-exile.
Connecting Themes
The themes found in 1 Chronicles 23:17 connect widely throughout the scriptures, particularly regarding the roles and responsibilities of the Levites and priests. The genealogical records serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness across generations, illustrating how God continues to work through history to fulfill His promises.
Bible Verse Parallels
This verse shows parallels with other scriptures that deal with priestly duties, highlighting the importance of maintaining a faithful lineage. The connection between the Old and New Testament can be explored in context with Jesus as the ultimate High Priest, fulfilling the law while not contradicting the importance of the priesthood established in the Old Testament.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
Utilizing a Bible concordance or a cross-reference guide can significantly aid in exploring the themes and connections related to this verse. Understanding how to use these tools effectively can deepen one's study of the scripture, allowing for a more thorough grasp of biblical themes.
Conclusion
The significance of 1 Chronicles 23:17 lies in its rich historical context and its theological implications regarding the continuity of God's covenant people. Through cross-referencing and comparative analysis, one can uncover a deeper understanding of the scriptural narrative, revealing the intricate relationships between the verses and their overarching themes of faithfulness, service, and God’s unchanging nature.
