Understanding 1 Chronicles 8:18

Verse: 1 Chronicles 8:18

Content: "These were the heads of the fathers' houses of the inhabitants of Gibeon; Jeiel the father of Gibeon, whose wife's name was Maacah." (1 Chronicles 8:18)

Summary and Interpretation

The verse provides a genealogical record, specifically mentioning key figures associated with Gibeon, an important city in biblical history.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry: Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of genealogies in Scripture, noting they underscore God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant through generations. Jeiel, identified as a leader among the Gibeonites, exemplifies this continuity.

Albert Barnes: Albert Barnes elaborates that the mention of the father of Gibeon serves to establish the historical and cultural context of Israel's formation. The focus on Jeiel and his wife Maacah highlights the importance of family lineage and roles within Hebrew society.

Adam Clarke: Adam Clarke points out the unique nature of Gibeon as a city with a rich narrative. The reference to Maacah, Jeiel's wife, provides insight into the social dynamics of the time, advocating for the acknowledgment of women's roles in familial structures.

Bible Verse Cross-References

This verse can be cross-referenced with the following passages that highlight themes of genealogy, leadership, and community identity:

• Joshua 9:3-6 - The Gibeonites' cunning to secure peace with Israel - illustrating their significance in biblical history.
• Nehemiah 7:25 - References the Murmuring Gibeonites during the return from Babylon, connecting their history to the post-exilic narrative.
• Ezra 2:6 - Lists the Gibeonites among those returning to Jerusalem, reinforcing their identity within the community.
• 1 Chronicles 9:35-44 - Further explores the genealogy and leadership roles of the Gibeonites.
• 2 Samuel 21:1-9 - Highlights the Gibeonite covenant with Saul, providing historical context about their role in Israelite history.
• 1 Kings 2:39-40 - Discusses the fate of the Gibeonites in relation to King David, linking their importance to Israel's leadership dynamics.
• 2 Chronicles 1:3 - Connects the city of Gibeon as a significant site for worship during Solomon’s reign, illustrating its ongoing importance.

Thematic Connections

This verse is part of the overarching narrative of Israel's history, particularly concerning how family lines contribute to the larger story of God’s people.

By exploring Bible verse connections, we see how genealogies correlate with the themes of covenant, faithfulness, and identity.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can help uncover deeper meanings and connections between the Old and New Testaments. In studying this verse, one could analyze:

• The Gibeonites’ covenant with Israel reflects the broader themes of mercy and inclusion.
• Relations with other nations underlines Israel's interaction and influence with surrounding peoples.

Conclusion

1 Chronicles 8:18, while a genealogical note, enriches our understanding of God's providence throughout history and the inter-generational continuity of His promises. By examining this verse through the lens of Bible verse parallels and cross-references, we cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of Scripture.