1 Chronicles 3:24 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 3:24 mean?

1 Chronicles 3:24 lists the seven sons of Elioenai: Hodaiah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Dalaiah, and Anani. This verse continues the genealogy of David’s descendants, showing the family line several generations after the exile.

The writer of 1 Chronicles is recording the descendants of King David for the returned exiles in Judah. This list helps trace the royal family line and connects the people to their heritage. The verse is part of a larger section that carefully preserves the names of those in David’s lineage, which was important for both historical record and community identity.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 3:24

• אֶלְיוֹעֵינַי (Elioenai, transliterated "Elioenai") means "God are my eyes" or "toward God are my eyes." His name stands out as a reminder of faith in God during difficult times, especially after the exile.
• שִׁבְעָה (shiv‘ah, transliterated "seven") is the Hebrew word for "seven." The specific mention of seven sons may symbolize completeness or fullness, a common theme in Hebrew tradition.

Why 1 Chronicles 3:24 matters

• This verse helps clarify the continuity of David’s royal line, even after the Babylonian exile, which was crucial for the Jewish community’s sense of identity and hope.
• By preserving these names, the Chronicler emphasizes the importance of every generation and individual in God’s unfolding plan, not just the well-known kings.
• The verse connects to the broader theme of 1 Chronicles 3, which is to document the descendants of David and show that God’s promises to David’s family were remembered and recorded, even in times of national upheaval.