And Joel, and Jehu the son of Josibiah, the son of Seraiah, the son of Asiel,

1 CHRONICLES 4:35KJV
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1 Chronicles 4:35 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:35 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:35 lists several men—Joel, Jehu (the son of Josibiah, who was the son of Seraiah, who was the son of Asiel)—as part of a genealogy. This verse is part of a longer record tracing the descendants of Judah, specifically the line connected to the tribe of Simeon.

This verse appears in a section where the author of 1 Chronicles is carefully documenting family lines for the returned exiles, showing their roots and tribal connections. The names here are not just individuals but represent links in a family chain, helping establish the identity and heritage of the people being described.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:35

  • יוֹאֵל (Yoel, "Joel"): This name means "Yahweh is God." Its inclusion highlights the religious heritage often reflected in Hebrew names.
  • יֵהוּא (Yehu, "Jehu"): This name means "Yahweh is He." The repetition of "Yahweh" in these names shows the importance of faith in the community's identity.
  • בֵּן (ben, "son [of]"): This word is used repeatedly to show direct descent, making the genealogical structure clear.
  • יֹוסִבְיָה (Yosiviah, "Josibiah"), שְׂרָיָה (Serayah, "Seraiah"), עֲשִׂיאֵל (Asi'el, "Asiel"): Each name marks a generation, and their meanings often reflect hope or faith in God, which was significant in Hebrew culture.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:35 matters

  • This verse helps clarify the lineage of the tribe of Simeon, which is important for understanding the organization and settlement of the tribes after the exile.
  • The careful listing of names emphasizes the value placed on family heritage and continuity in Israel’s history.
  • By tracing these lines, the Chronicler connects the present community to its ancient roots, reinforcing a sense of belonging and legitimacy for those returning to the land.

Where else these words appear

“Seraiah” Hebrew H8304 · used in 18 verses

  • 2 Samuel 8:17 And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe;
  • 1 Chronicles 6:14 And Azariah begat Seraiah, and Seraiah begat Jehozadak,
  • Nehemiah 12:12 And in the days of Joiakim were priests, the chief of the fathers: of Seraiah, Meraiah; of Jeremiah, Hananiah;

“Joel” Hebrew H3100 · used in 19 verses

  • 1 Samuel 8:2 Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: they were judges in Beersheba.
  • 1 Chronicles 7:3 And the sons of Uzzi; Izrahiah: and the sons of Izrahiah; Michael, and Obadiah, and Joel, Ishiah, five: all of them chief men.
  • 1 Chronicles 26:22 The sons of Jehieli; Zetham, and Joel his brother, which were over the treasures of the house of the LORD.

“Jehu” Hebrew H3058 · used in 54 verses

  • 1 Kings 16:1 Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying,
  • 2 Kings 9:22 And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?
  • 2 Kings 10:30 And the LORD said unto Jehu, Because thou hast done well in executing that which is right in mine eyes, and hast done unto the house of Ahab according to all that was in mine heart, thy children of the fourth generation shall sit on the throne of Israel.