1 Chronicles 4:31 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:31 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:31 lists several towns—Bethmarcaboth, Hazarsusim, Bethbirei, and Shaaraim—as belonging to a particular group until the reign of King David. The verse is part of a genealogical record, showing which cities were associated with certain descendants of Simeon up to David’s time.

This verse comes from a section where the writer is cataloging the descendants of the tribe of Simeon and the places they settled. The mention of “unto the reign of David” signals that these cities remained under their control until David became king, suggesting a change in administration or tribal boundaries after that point. The focus is historical, helping the reader trace tribal territories and their changes over time.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:31

• בֵּית מַרְכָּבוֹת (Bethmarcaboth, transliteration: Beit Markavot) means “house of chariots.” This name hints at the possible function or reputation of the town, perhaps as a place where chariots were kept or made.
• חֲצַר סוּסִים (Hazarsusim, transliteration: Hatzar Susim) means “village of horses.” This suggests the town was known for horse breeding or stabling, which was important for transportation and warfare.
• בֵּית בִּרְאִי (Bethbirei, transliteration: Beit Birei) and שַׁעֲרַיִם (Shaaraim, transliteration: Sha’arayim) are place names, with Shaaraim often understood as “two gates,” possibly referring to a town with a notable gate structure.
• עָרִים (cities, transliteration: arim) is the general word for “cities” or “towns,” emphasizing these were established settlements.
• מָלַךְ (reign, transliteration: malakh) refers to the period of a king’s rule, here specifically marking the time up to David’s kingship.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:31 matters

• This verse helps clarify the historical boundaries and settlements of the tribe of Simeon, which can otherwise be confusing due to shifting tribal territories in Israel’s early history.
• By noting that these cities belonged to the Simeonites “unto the reign of David,” the verse hints at administrative or territorial changes that happened under David, which is significant for understanding the broader shifts in Israel’s tribal structure.
• The specific mention of towns associated with horses and chariots gives a glimpse into the economic and military activities of the region, showing that these were not just random villages but had particular roles or reputations.