1 chronicles 4:38 - these mentioned by name were princes in their families. Their fathers’ houses increased greatly.

Generated Verse: 1 chronicles 4:38

What does "1 chronicles 4:38" mean?


This verse, 1 Chronicles 4:38, is part of a genealogical list within the larger context of 1 Chronicles. It's important to understand it within that context. Here's a breakdown of what it likely means:

"These mentioned by name...": This refers back to the individuals listed in the preceding verses within the chapter. The chapter is dedicated to listing the descendants of Judah, specifically the tribe of Simeon.

"...were princes in their families.": This doesn't necessarily mean they were literal kings or had official titles like "prince." In this context, "prince" or "chief" likely indicates individuals who held positions of leadership, authority, or influence within their clans or extended families. They were prominent and respected members of their lineage. The Hebrew word for "prince" in this verse can also be translated as "chief" or "leader."

"Their fathers' houses increased greatly.": This means their families grew in size, number, and likely also in influence and prosperity. Their lineage expanded and became more significant within the tribe or region. This could be due to factors such as:
High birth rates: They had many descendants.
Successful management of resources: They were good stewards of land, livestock, or other assets.
Strategic alliances: They formed advantageous marriages or partnerships with other families.
Divine blessing: In a religious context, this growth could be seen as a sign of God's favor and blessing.

In summary, the verse signifies that the individuals named in the preceding verses were influential leaders within their extended families, and those families experienced significant growth and prosperity.

Importance within Chronicles:

1 Chronicles is not just a simple list of names. It serves several purposes:

Establishing legitimacy: It validates the lineage and rights of certain groups within Israel.
Preserving history: It records the ancestry and accomplishments of important families.
Highlighting God's faithfulness: The growth of these families can be interpreted as evidence of God's promise to bless his people.

Therefore, this verse is more than just a statement about family size. It's a testament to the leadership qualities of these individuals and the success of their families, likely seen as a result of both their efforts and divine favor.

What categories does "1 chronicles 4:38" have?