Bible Verse Meaning: 1 Chronicles 8:29

Verse: 1 Chronicles 8:29 - "And the father of Gibeon, Jeiel, whose wife was Maachah, bare Abdon."

Overview

This verse is a genealogical reference within the Chronicles, focusing on the lineage of Gibeon, emphasizing the importance of family in the biblical narrative. The inclusion of genealogies serves to establish identity, heritage, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people.

Commentary Insights

In studying this verse, we combine insights from noted public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry highlights the significance of genealogy in the Jewish culture, asserting that families and clan roots are crucial in understanding the social and spiritual structure of Israel. In this particular verse, the mention of Jeiel and his wife Maachah signals a heritage that was known, emphasizing the pride and recognition that comes with lineage.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes that the name Gibeon often represents a city of refuge and highlights the family connection that serves to tie individuals back to their ancestral homes. This serves as a reminder of God’s hand in preserving His people's stories through generations.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke provides an analysis of the specific names mentioned, such as Abdon, indicating that they could savor of worship or service to God. This reflects a broader theme in the Chronicles where the authors often return to themes of devotion and fidelity in their historical narrative.

Thematic Connections

This verse not only denotes lineage but also connects to key themes found throughout the Bible:

• Lineage and Heritage: The importance of genealogies in Scripture is noted for establishing God’s promises through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob continuing to the New Testament.
• The Role of Family: Biblical families often illustrate the character of God, as evidenced from the faithfulness of families throughout the Old Testament.
• God's Covenant: Through tracing lineages, this scripture emphasizes the unbroken covenant God maintains with His people.

Cross-References

This verse can be linked to several other Scriptures that reinforce its themes:

• Genesis 35:23-26: Discusses Jacob's sons and the formation of tribes.
• 1 Chronicles 2:1-2: Traces the lineage of Jacob's family.
• Joshua 9:3-15: Details the Gibeonites and their interaction with Israel.
• 2 Samuel 21:1-2: Mentions Gibeon amid Israel's history.
• Nehemiah 3:7: References Gibeon's role in the post-exilic community.
• Jeremiah 40:8: Mentions Gibeon during the time of the Babylonians.
• Matthew 1:12: Links genealogy to Jesus, showing the significance of familial lines.

Understanding Connections

Thematic connections found in 1 Chronicles 8:29 can be explored by examining how genealogical records serve not only as historical accounts but also as means of connecting readers to God's overarching narrative through His people.

For those diving deeper into Bible verse cross-references, this passage illustrates the connections between genealogies throughout both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a starting point for understanding more about the continuity of God’s plan as presented in Scripture.

Conclusion

1 Chronicles 8:29 reflects the deep roots of lineage within the biblical context, emphasizing God’s commitment to His people and the importance of considering how different passages relate to each other through cross-referencing. Such connections enrich our study of the Bible and enhance understanding of its teachings.