Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 8:13 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 8:13 reports that Beriah and Shema were leaders among the families living in Aijalon, and they successfully drove out the people of Gath. This verse highlights their role as heads of their community and their victory over another group. This part of 1 Chronicles is listing descendants of Benjamin and their achievements. The writer is recording the history of certain family heads, noting that Beriah and Shema, who led families in Aijalon, managed to expel the inhabitants of Gath—likely Philistines—from the area. The verse is part of a larger genealogy showing the strength and influence of Benjamin’s descendants.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 8:13

Accepted Answer

רָאשֵׁי (rāshê, "heads"): This word means leaders or chiefs, emphasizing that Beriah and Shema were not just ordinary residents but held authority over their families or clans in Aijalon. הוֹשִׁיבוּ (hôshîvû, "drove away"): This verb is often used for causing someone to leave or expelling them. Here, it shows that Beriah and Shema actively removed the inhabitants of Gath, suggesting a significant act of defense or conquest. גַּת (Gath): Gath was a major Philistine city. Mentioning it here highlights that the conflict was with a notable and often hostile neighboring group.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 8:13 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that some Benjamite families played a military or protective role, not just living quietly but taking action to secure their territory. The mention of Gath connects this family history to the broader story of Israel’s struggles with the Philistines, showing that local leaders sometimes took initiative apart from the main national narratives. By naming Beriah and Shema as "heads" and recording their victory, the verse gives honor to these individuals and their families, showing the chronicler’s interest in both genealogy and notable deeds.

1 Chronicles 8:13 (KJV)