1 Chronicles 4:17 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:17 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:17 lists the sons of Ezra as Jether, Mered, Epher, and Jalon, and then mentions a woman who bore Miriam, Shammai, and Ishbah, who is called the father of Eshtemoa. The verse is part of a genealogy, tracing family lines and connections within the tribe of Judah.

This verse appears in a long list of descendants, where the chronicler is recording the family history for the people of Israel. The names given show both male and female members, which is somewhat unusual in ancient genealogies, and it highlights the importance of these individuals in the community’s memory. The mention of Eshtemoa connects the family to a known town in Judah, anchoring the genealogy in a real location.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:17

• "sons" (בְּנֵי, bənê): This word means "sons" or "descendants." The use here shows the focus on male lineage, but the verse also includes a woman, which is notable.
• "bare" (יָלְדָה, yāladāh): This verb means "she bore" or "she gave birth." The text shifts from listing sons to mentioning a woman who bore children, which may indicate a blending of family lines or a special recognition of her offspring.
• "father" (אָב, ’āv): In this context, "father" can mean the ancestor or founder of a place or group, not just a biological father. Calling Ishbah the "father of Eshtemoa" links him to the founding or leadership of the town of Eshtemoa.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:17 matters

• This verse shows that genealogies in the Bible sometimes include women and their children, not just male ancestors, which is unusual and may point to their significance.
• The mention of Eshtemoa ties the genealogy to a specific place in Judah, helping readers connect family history to geography.
• By carefully recording these names, the chronicler preserves the memory of families and their roles in Israel’s history, which was important for identity and inheritance.