1 Chronicles 2:36 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 2:36 mean?

1 Chronicles 2:36 records part of a family genealogy, stating that Attai was the father of Nathan, and Nathan was the father of Zabad. This verse is simply listing the line of descent within the tribe of Judah.

This verse appears in a long list where the writer is tracing the descendants of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The chronicler is speaking to the people of Israel, carefully documenting their ancestral lines after the return from exile. The focus here is on preserving family records and showing the continuity of the tribe.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 2:36

• "begat" (יָלַד, yalad): This Hebrew word means "to father" or "to bring forth." In genealogies like this, it marks the direct line of descent, showing that these are not just relatives but direct ancestors and descendants.
• "Attai" (עַתַּי, ʿattay), "Nathan" (נָתָן, natan), "Zabad" (זָבָד, zavad): These are personal names. Their inclusion shows the chronicler’s care in preserving even lesser-known family members, emphasizing the importance of every link in the chain.

Why 1 Chronicles 2:36 matters

• This verse helps establish the detailed lineage of Judah, which is significant for understanding the ancestry of important biblical figures, including King David.
• By listing even minor ancestors, the chronicler highlights the value of every individual in the community’s history, not just the famous or powerful.
• The verse connects to the broader purpose of Chronicles, which is to remind the returned exiles of their heritage and God’s ongoing relationship with their people through each generation.