1 Chronicles 1:32 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 1:32 mean?

1 Chronicles 1:32 lists the sons of Keturah, who is described as Abraham’s concubine, and names the children she bore: Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. The verse also mentions that Jokshan had two sons named Sheba and Dedan.

This verse is part of a genealogy where the writer is recording the descendants of Abraham, not just through his wife Sarah, but also through Keturah. The chronicler is speaking to the people of Israel, providing a record of their extended family tree and showing the broader scope of Abraham’s descendants beyond Isaac and Ishmael.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 1:32

• קְטוּרָה (Keturah): This is the name of Abraham’s concubine. The verse’s use of this name reminds readers that Abraham had children with women other than Sarah, expanding the family line.
• פִּילֶגֶשׁ (pilegesh, “concubine”): This word means a woman who has a recognized relationship with a man but holds a lower status than a wife. The text’s use of this term for Keturah clarifies her position in Abraham’s household.
• בָּנִים (banim, “sons”): This word refers to male descendants. The verse’s focus on “sons” highlights the importance of lineage and inheritance in ancient Israel.

Why 1 Chronicles 1:32 matters

• This verse clarifies that Abraham’s family tree includes more branches than just Isaac and Ishmael, reminding readers of the many nations linked to Abraham.
• By naming Keturah as a concubine, the verse addresses her status and the legitimacy of her children in the genealogy, which sometimes raises questions in other biblical passages.
• The mention of Jokshan’s sons, Sheba and Dedan, connects to other biblical stories and genealogies, helping readers trace the origins of several ancient peoples.