1 Chronicles 4:39 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 4:39 mean?

1 Chronicles 4:39 describes a group of people traveling to the entrance of a place called Gedor, reaching the eastern side of a valley, in search of good pastureland for their flocks. The verse highlights their movement and purpose: they are seeking new grazing areas for their animals.

This verse is part of a larger genealogy and historical account in 1 Chronicles, where the chronicler records the movements and settlements of the descendants of Judah. The people mentioned here are likely the Simeonites, who are looking for new land because their previous territory could not support all their livestock. The verse gives a glimpse into the practical concerns of ancient tribes, such as finding enough resources for their animals.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 4:39

• "went" (יָלַךְ, yalak): This word often means to go or walk, and here it emphasizes the deliberate journey the group undertakes in search of pasture.
• "entrance" (מָבוֹא, mavo'): This term can mean an entryway or access point, suggesting they reached a significant boundary or gateway to the region of Gedor.
• "pasture" (מִרְעֶה, mir'eh): This word refers to grazing land, highlighting that the group's main concern was finding suitable land to feed their flocks.
• "flocks" (צֹאן, tson): This term specifically means sheep or small livestock, clarifying that the journey was motivated by the need to care for these animals.

Why 1 Chronicles 4:39 matters

• This verse shows the practical realities faced by ancient tribes, such as the need to move and find new resources when current land could not support their animals.
• The mention of specific locations and directions (like Gedor and the east side of the valley) adds historical and geographical detail, grounding the genealogy in real places and events.
• By including the search for pasture, the chronicler connects the story of these people to the broader biblical theme of God’s provision and the challenges of living in the land.