1 Chronicles 7:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 7:6 mean?

1 Chronicles 7:6 lists the three sons of Benjamin as Bela, Becher, and Jediael. This verse is part of a genealogical record, simply naming the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, to show the family line.

The writer of 1 Chronicles is compiling the family histories of the tribes of Israel, and here he records the main sons of Benjamin. This listing helps set up the structure for later details about their families and descendants, which was important for the Israelites to trace their heritage and tribal identity.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 7:6

• בִּנְיָמִין (Binyamin): This is the Hebrew name for Benjamin, meaning "son of the right hand" or "son of the south." It identifies the tribe being discussed and connects the genealogy to one of Jacob's sons.
• בֵּלַע (Bela‘): The name of Benjamin’s first son, often understood as "destruction" or "swallowing up." Naming Bela first may indicate his prominence in the family line.
• בֶּכֶר (Bekher): The second son, with a name that can mean "young camel" or "firstborn." His inclusion shows a different tradition from some other lists, which sometimes vary in the names or order.
• יְדִיעֲאֵל (Yedia’el): The third son, meaning "God knows" or "God has made known." His name reflects a theophoric element, connecting the family to God’s knowledge or revelation.
• שָׁלוֹשׁ (shalosh): The Hebrew word for "three," confirming that these are the three sons being listed here, which is important because other genealogies sometimes list different numbers or names.

Why 1 Chronicles 7:6 matters

• This verse highlights that genealogical records in the Bible sometimes differ, as other passages list different sons or numbers for Benjamin, showing the complexity and variety in ancient record-keeping.
• By naming these three sons, the verse sets up the structure for the following verses, which will detail their descendants and clans, important for understanding Israel’s tribal organization.
• The verse shows the Chronicler’s interest in preserving and clarifying Israel’s tribal history, which was crucial for identity, inheritance, and roles within the nation.