1 Chronicles 3:22 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 3:22 mean?

1 Chronicles 3:22 lists the descendants of Shechaniah, naming his son Shemaiah and then the sons of Shemaiah: Hattush, Igeal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat, making a total of six. This verse is part of a genealogy tracing the family line from King David.

The writer of 1 Chronicles is recording the royal lineage for the people of Israel, likely after the exile, to show continuity and legitimacy of David’s house. This specific verse highlights a branch of David’s descendants, giving names that would have been recognized by the original audience as part of their heritage and identity.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 3:22

• בְּנֵי (bənē, H1121) — This word means "sons" or "descendants." Its repeated use in this verse emphasizes the generational line and the importance of family heritage in the text.
• שְׁכַנְיָה (Shekhaniah, H7935) — This is a personal name, meaning "the LORD has dwelt." The inclusion of Shechaniah’s name marks a specific branch in the genealogy.
• שְׁמַעְיָה (Shemaiah, H8098) — Another personal name, meaning "the LORD has heard." The naming of Shemaiah as Shechaniah’s son continues the detailed tracking of lineage.
• שֵׁשׁ (shesh, H8337) — This is the word for "six." The verse ends by counting the total number of sons listed, which was a common way to summarize and verify genealogical records.

Why 1 Chronicles 3:22 matters

• This verse helps clarify the continuation of David’s line during and after the exile, showing that the family did not disappear but continued through specific named descendants.
• The careful listing of names and the total count ("six") underscores the reliability and precision of the genealogical record, which was important for claims to leadership or priesthood.
• By connecting these individuals to the wider genealogy, the verse ties personal family stories into the larger narrative of Israel’s history and God’s promises to David’s descendants.