1 Chronicles 9:42 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 9:42 mean?

1 Chronicles 9:42 lists part of a family genealogy, stating that Ahaz was the father of Jarah, Jarah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri, and Zimri was the father of Moza. This verse is simply recording the line of descent within a particular family.

This verse appears in a section where the writer of 1 Chronicles is carefully documenting the descendants of Saul and the tribe of Benjamin after the return from exile. The focus is on preserving the historical record of families who returned to Jerusalem, showing the continuity of the people and their leaders.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 9:42

• "begat" (יָלַד, yalad): This Hebrew word means "to father" or "to bring forth." The use of "begat" here emphasizes the direct parent-child relationship in the genealogy, showing a clear line of descent.
• "Alemeth" (עַלְמֶת, ‘Almeth), "Azmaveth" (עַזְמָוֶת, ‘Azmaveth), "Zimri" (זִמְרִי, Zimri), and "Moza" (מוֹצָא, Moza): These are personal names, and their inclusion highlights specific individuals within the family line. Each name marks a generation and helps preserve the memory of these ancestors.

Why 1 Chronicles 9:42 matters

• This verse helps clarify the continuity of the Benjaminite line after the exile, which is important for understanding the restoration of Israel's tribes.
• By listing these names, the chronicler emphasizes the importance of family heritage and the preservation of identity among the returning exiles.
• The verse connects to the broader context of 1 Chronicles 9, which is focused on reestablishing the community in Jerusalem and honoring the ancestors who played a role in Israel’s history.