1 Chronicles 4:3 states:

"And these were of the father of Etam: Jezreel, and Ishma, and Idbash: and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi."

Summary and Interpretation

This verse, while brief, offers insights into the familial structure of the tribe of Judah, notably highlighting the lineage of the father of Etam. It acknowledges significant names and emphasizes the inclusion of women, as indicated by the mention of Hazelelponi. The lineage stated here serves not only to honor individual family members but also to affirm the continuity of God's covenant through specific tribal lines.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of family names within the text, shedding light on the value attached to genealogy in the understanding of God's promises. He observes how these names contribute to a broader narrative of covenant faithfulness, indicating that God’s plans are often accomplished through specific familial lines.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes interprets the mention of Hazelelponi as significant in its rarity, suggesting that the presence of a woman's name in this genealogy accentuates her value and role in the lineage. He also notes that the genealogy serves a purpose in linking this family to the wider history of Israel, reinforcing the theme of God's chosen people.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out that genealogies in the Bible are not just lists but are rich with historical and theological significance. He emphasizes that each name mentioned may represent various attributes or stories significant to Israel’s identity, illustrating the importance of remembering one’s heritage in relation to God’s work.

Related Bible Cross-References

1 Chronicles 4:3 connects with various other scriptures, enriching its context. Below is a listing of related verses:

• Genesis 46:12: Discusses the descendants of Jacob emphasizing family lines.
• Exodus 6:23: Highlights the lineage of Aaron, showcasing the importance of genealogy in the priestly line.
• Ruth 4:18-22: Details another genealogical record, illustrating the continuity of God's plan through families.
• Matthew 1:3-6: Provides the genealogy of Jesus, linking Him to significant Old Testament figures.
• Luke 3:33: Offers another account of Jesus' genealogy reiterating the significance of lineage.
• Hebrews 7:14: Refers to Jesus' origin from the tribe of Judah, connecting historical lineage to New Testament revelation.
• 1 Corinthians 1:26-29: Discusses God’s choice of the unworthy, contrasting with the perception of family significance.

Thematic Connections

Through this verse and its connections, several themes arise:

• Genealogy and Heritage: Understanding one's lineage plays a crucial role in recognizing God’s working through history.
• Women's Roles in the Bible: The mention of Hazelelponi indicates the importance of recognizing female lineage, which highlights God’s inclusive narrative.
• Covenantal Promises: The genealogy illustrates God’s faithfulness to His covenants through chosen families.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those interested in further exploring connections and understanding the scripture, the following tools may be helpful:

• Bible concordance for comprehensive search of terms.
• Bible cross-reference guide to discover related verses.
• Online cross-reference Bible study platforms.
• Bible reference resources offering curated verse connections.
• Comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials for in-depth study.

Using Cross-References for Deeper Understanding

Cross-referencing is an invaluable method for Bible study and analysis, allowing readers to:

• Identify connections between Old and New Testament themes.
• Understand the significance of genealogical data in the narrative of salvation history.
• Explore the parallels between various biblical authors and their treatment of themes of lineage and heritage.
• Bridge understanding gaps between different scriptural accounts through comparative analysis.

Conclusion

1 Chronicles 4:3 serves as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of God’s plan woven through human history, emphasizing both male and female contributions to the narrative. By leveraging the references and insights provided by biblical commentaries and genealogical context, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of names and families in the story of redemption.