1 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 7:14 mean?

1 Chronicles 7:14 lists some of the descendants of Manasseh, one of Joseph’s sons, noting that Ashriel was born to Manasseh’s wife, while Machir, the ancestor of Gilead, was born to Manasseh’s concubine, who was an Aramean woman. This verse highlights the different maternal lines within Manasseh’s family.

The verse is part of a genealogical record, where the writer is documenting the family lines of the tribes of Israel. The mention of both a wife and a concubine, as well as the specific reference to the concubine being an Aramean (from Aram/Syria), shows the mixed heritage within the tribe of Manasseh and sets the stage for the later importance of Machir and Gilead in Israel’s history.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 7:14

• concubine (פִּילֶגֶשׁ, pilegesh): This word refers to a woman who had a recognized relationship with a man but did not have the full status of a wife. The distinction matters here because it clarifies the different social standing of Machir’s mother compared to Ashriel’s.
• Aramitess (אֲרַמִּית, aramit): This term means a woman from Aram (Syria). The detail that Machir’s mother was an Aramean highlights the presence of non-Israelite ancestry within the tribe of Manasseh.
• father (אָב, av): In this context, “father” often means “ancestor” or “founder.” Machir is called the “father of Gilead,” meaning he was the forefather or originator of the Gileadite clan.

Why 1 Chronicles 7:14 matters

• This verse clarifies that not all tribal ancestors came from the same maternal line, showing the diversity within Israel’s tribes.
• The mention of an Aramean concubine explains later connections and interactions between Israel and neighboring peoples, especially in the region of Gilead.
• By naming both Ashriel and Machir, the verse sets up the importance of Machir’s descendants, who play a significant role in later biblical narratives about the land east of the Jordan River.