1 Chronicles 4:26 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:26 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:26 lists the descendants of Mishma, naming his son Hamuel, Hamuel’s son Zacchur, and Zacchur’s son Shimei. This verse is part of a genealogical record, showing the family line within the tribe of Judah.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to preserve the history and family lines of Israel, especially after the exile. In this section, the writer is carefully tracing the lineage of Judah’s descendants. Listing these names helps connect later generations to their ancestors and shows the continuity of the tribe’s history.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:26

• בְּנֵי (bənê, "sons"): This word, used repeatedly in genealogies, emphasizes direct descent and family connection, highlighting the importance of lineage in ancient Israel.
• מִשְׁמָע (Mishma, "Mishma"): This is a personal name, and its inclusion marks the starting point for this particular family branch.
• בְּנוֹ (beno, "his son"): This phrase is used for each generation, making the father-son relationship explicit and showing the exact line of descent.
• שִׁמְעִי (Shimei, "Shimei"): Another personal name, marking the end of this listed segment and helping readers track the family’s progression.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:26 matters

• This verse helps clarify the specific family line within Judah, which is important for understanding tribal inheritance and roles in Israel’s history.
• By listing these names, the chronicler connects the present community to their ancestors, reinforcing a sense of identity and belonging.
• The verse fits into a larger pattern in 1 Chronicles, where detailed genealogies serve to preserve the memory of families and their place in God’s unfolding story.