1 Chronicles 4:38 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:38 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:38 says that the men listed by name in the previous verses were leaders or chiefs in their family groups, and their family households grew significantly in number and influence. The verse highlights the prominence and expansion of these particular families among the descendants of Judah.

The writer of 1 Chronicles is recording the genealogy of the tribe of Judah, focusing here on certain men who stood out as "princes" or leaders within their extended families. This verse is part of a larger section that traces the growth and organization of the tribes after the exile, showing how some family lines became especially strong and numerous.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:38

• "Princes" (נָשִׂיא, nasi’): This word means a leader, chief, or prince. In this verse, it emphasizes that these men were not just ordinary family members but held positions of authority and respect within their clans.
• "Families" (מִשְׁפָּחָה, mishpachah): This refers to extended family groups or clans, showing the social structure within the tribe.
• "Increased" (פָּרַץ, parats): This word means to break out, increase, or expand. Here, it points to the remarkable growth and success of these families, suggesting both numerical increase and possibly influence or prosperity.
• "Greatly" (לָרֹב, larov): This means "in abundance" or "greatly," stressing just how significant the increase was.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:38 matters

• This verse clarifies that leadership within Israel’s tribes was often tied to family lines, and that some families became especially prominent over time.
• The mention of great increase highlights God’s blessing or favor on these families, which would have been important to the original readers tracing their heritage after returning from exile.
• By naming these leaders and their growing households, the chronicler connects the present community to a history of growth and resilience, reinforcing their identity and continuity as a people.