1 Chronicles 8:37 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 8:37 mean?

1 Chronicles 8:37 lists a sequence of descendants, stating that Moza became the father of Binea, who fathered Rapha, who fathered Eleasah, who fathered Azel. This verse is part of a genealogy tracing the family line within the tribe of Benjamin.

This verse comes from a section where the author of 1 Chronicles is recording the lineage of Benjamin’s descendants for the returning exiles. The focus is on preserving the names and connections of families, showing the continuity and identity of the tribe through generations. The verse does not include narrative or teaching, but serves to document the ancestry of key individuals.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 8:37

• The word "begat" (יָלַד, yalad) means "to father" or "to become the parent of." In genealogies, this word marks the direct line of descent, emphasizing the biological connection between generations.
• The word "son" (בֵּן, ben) is used repeatedly to indicate the relationship between each person listed. This term is central in Hebrew genealogies, linking each name as a direct descendant.

Why 1 Chronicles 8:37 matters

• This verse helps clarify the specific family line within the tribe of Benjamin, which is important for understanding the tribal structure and inheritance in Israel.
• By preserving these names, the Chronicler affirms the identity and heritage of the people returning from exile, connecting them to their ancestral roots.
• The verse fits into a larger pattern in 1 Chronicles, where genealogies are used to establish legitimacy and continuity for the community’s leaders and families.