1 Chronicles 7:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 7:15 mean?

1 Chronicles 7:15 records that Machir married the sister of Huppim and Shuppim, whose name was Maachah, and that Machir had a second son named Zelophehad, who had only daughters. This verse is part of a genealogy, tracing the descendants of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel.

The verse is set in a list of family records compiled by the chronicler, likely for the returned exiles of Israel to understand their tribal heritage. The mention of Machir’s marriage and Zelophehad’s daughters is notable because it highlights a family line where inheritance and lineage would later become important, especially since Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters—a detail that is discussed further in other parts of the Bible.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 7:15

• מָכִיר (Makir): This is the name Machir, a significant descendant of Manasseh, whose lineage is being traced. His family connections are important for understanding tribal inheritance.
• לָקַח (laqach): Translated as "took," this word means to take or to marry in this context, showing that Machir actively chose Maachah as his wife.
• בַּת (ishah): Translated as "wife," this word simply means a female spouse, clarifying the relationship being described.
• מַחְלָה (Maachah): This is the name of Machir’s wife, specifically identified as the sister of Huppim and Shuppim, which helps clarify the family ties.
• צְלָפְחָד (Tselofchad): The name Zelophehad, whose lack of sons and presence of daughters becomes a key detail in later biblical discussions about inheritance.
• בַּת (bat): Translated as "daughters," this word emphasizes that Zelophehad had only female children, which sets up later legal and narrative developments.

Why 1 Chronicles 7:15 matters

• This verse highlights the unusual situation of Zelophehad having only daughters, which becomes important in later biblical laws about inheritance for daughters (see Numbers 27).
• The genealogy underscores the importance of family lines and tribal identity for the Israelites, especially after the exile when re-establishing land and inheritance rights was crucial.
• By naming Maachah and linking her to Huppim and Shuppim, the chronicler is careful to show precise family connections, which would have mattered for legal and social reasons in ancient Israel.