Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 8:15 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 8:15 lists three individuals—Zebadiah, Arad, and Ader—as part of a genealogy. The verse is simply naming descendants in a family line, with no additional story or description given about these people. This verse is part of a longer section where the writer of 1 Chronicles is recording the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The focus is on preserving the names and lineage of important families, which was a key concern for the original audience. The verse does not offer details about the lives or actions of Zebadiah, Arad, or Ader; it simply records their place in the family tree.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 8:15

Accepted Answer

זְבַדְיָה (Zebadyah, transliterated "Zebadiah") means "Yahweh has given." This name reflects a common practice of including a reference to God ("Yah") in Hebrew names, showing the family's faith. עֲרָד (Arad, transliterated "Arad") is a personal name that also appears as a place name elsewhere in the Bible. Here, it is just a name in the genealogy. עָדֵר (Ader, transliterated "Ader") means "flock" or "herd." As a personal name, it may suggest a connection to shepherding, but in this context, it is simply a name in the list.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 8:15 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps establish the continuity and historical roots of the tribe of Benjamin, which was important for the identity of Israel. By listing these names, the writer shows the value placed on every family and individual within the community, even those about whom nothing else is recorded. The verse connects to the broader purpose of 1 Chronicles, which is to trace the lineage of Israel’s tribes and highlight their role in the nation’s story.

1 Chronicles 8:15 (KJV)