Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 9:40 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 9:40 records that Jonathan’s son was named Meribbaal, and Meribbaal was the father of Micah. This verse is part of a genealogical list, tracing the descendants of Saul’s family after the exile. The writer of 1 Chronicles is listing the family line of King Saul, focusing here on Jonathan’s descendants. The mention of Meribbaal (elsewhere called Mephibosheth) and his son Micah helps preserve the memory of Saul’s family, showing that even after Saul’s fall, his line continued. This is part of a larger effort in Chronicles to document Israel’s history and key families.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 9:40

Accepted Answer

מְרִיבְבַּעַל (Meribbaal): This name means “Baal contends” or “opponent of Baal.” In other places, this person is called מְפִיבֹשֶׁת (Mephibosheth), which means “from the mouth of shame.” The use of “Baal” in the name reflects earlier naming customs before the name was changed to avoid association with the Canaanite god Baal. יָלַד (yalad, “begat”): This verb means “to give birth to” or “to father.” It marks the direct parent-child relationship, emphasizing the continuation of Saul’s line through Meribbaal to Micah.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 9:40 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that Saul’s family did not end with his death; his grandson Meribbaal and great-grandson Micah carried on the lineage. The use of the name Meribbaal instead of Mephibosheth shows how names and their meanings shifted over time, reflecting changing attitudes toward certain words or deities. By placing this genealogy after the exile, the Chronicler is emphasizing the restoration and continuity of Israel’s families, even those who had fallen from power.

1 Chronicles 9:40 (KJV)