This verse from 1 Chronicles 2:26 simply states a genealogical fact. Let's break it down:
Jerahmeel: This is a name. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Jerahmeel is a descendant of Judah, one of the sons of Jacob (Israel).
had another wife: This indicates that Jerahmeel likely had more than one wife. Polygamy was practiced in ancient Israelite society.
whose name was Atarah: This identifies the name of this particular wife.
She was the mother of Onam: This states that Atarah gave birth to a son named Onam.
Therefore, the verse primarily functions as a genealogical marker, tracing the lineage and family connections within the tribe of Judah. It tells us that Jerahmeel had a wife named Atarah, and she was the mother of Onam.
What it Doesn't Tell Us:
The verse doesn't provide any information about the character of Atarah, Jerahmeel, or Onam.
It doesn't explain the significance of Onam's descendants or role in Israelite history (if any).
It doesn't offer any moral or theological commentary on the practice of polygamy.
Importance in Context:
Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this verse serves to establish the tribal and familial connections of the people of Israel. The Chronicler was interested in documenting the history of the nation, including the genealogies of important families. By listing these names and relationships, the Chronicler aimed to:
Establish land rights and inheritance.
Confirm the legitimacy of certain families and their roles.
Connect the present generation of Israelites with their ancestors.
In short, the verse is a small piece of a larger genealogical puzzle, contributing to the overall historical and social context of the book of 1 Chronicles.
This verse from 1 Chronicles 2:26 simply states a genealogical fact. Let's break it down:
Jerahmeel: This is a name. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Jerahmeel is a descendant of Judah, one of the sons of Jacob (Israel).
had another wife: This indicates that Jerahmeel likely had more than one wife. Polygamy was practiced in ancient Israelite society.
whose name was Atarah: This identifies the name of this particular wife.
She was the mother of Onam: This states that Atarah gave birth to a son named Onam.
Therefore, the verse primarily functions as a genealogical marker, tracing the lineage and family connections within the tribe of Judah. It tells us that Jerahmeel had a wife named Atarah, and she was the mother of Onam.
What it Doesn't Tell Us:
The verse doesn't provide any information about the character of Atarah, Jerahmeel, or Onam.
It doesn't explain the significance of Onam's descendants or role in Israelite history (if any).
It doesn't offer any moral or theological commentary on the practice of polygamy.
Importance in Context:
Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this verse serves to establish the tribal and familial connections of the people of Israel. The Chronicler was interested in documenting the history of the nation, including the genealogies of important families. By listing these names and relationships, the Chronicler aimed to:
Establish land rights and inheritance.
Confirm the legitimacy of certain families and their roles.
Connect the present generation of Israelites with their ancestors.
In short, the verse is a small piece of a larger genealogical puzzle, contributing to the overall historical and social context of the book of 1 Chronicles.