1 Chronicles 23:22

Eleazar died without having any sons; he had only daughters. Their cousins, the sons of Kish, married them.

Study Bible

Eleazar died
The name "Eleazar" means "God has helped" in Hebrew. Eleazar was a significant figure in the Levitical line, and his death marks a transition in the priestly duties and responsibilities. His passing without male heirs highlights the importance of God's providence in maintaining the priestly lineage, as it was not dependent solely on human succession but on divine orchestration.

without having sons
In ancient Israelite culture, having sons was crucial for the continuation of a family line and inheritance. Sons were seen as a blessing and a means to carry on the family name and responsibilities. The absence of sons for Eleazar emphasizes the vulnerability and potential discontinuity in his lineage, which God addresses through other means.

he had only daughters
Daughters in the biblical context often had limited rights to inheritance compared to sons. However, the mention of Eleazar's daughters signifies their importance and God's inclusive plan. This reflects the broader biblical theme that God values and uses both men and women in His divine purposes, as seen in other scriptural accounts where women play pivotal roles.

Their cousins, the sons of Kish
The reference to "cousins" and "the sons of Kish" indicates the close familial ties within the tribe of Levi. Kish, a Levite, represents the broader family network that God uses to ensure the continuation of Eleazar's line. This highlights the communal and familial nature of Israelite society, where family obligations and support systems were vital.

married them
Marriage within the family, particularly among the Levites, was a means to preserve tribal and familial inheritance. This practice ensured that the priestly duties and land remained within the tribe, maintaining the integrity of the Levitical service. It underscores the importance of marriage as a covenantal relationship that God uses to fulfill His promises and purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eleazar
A Levite, son of Mahli, who died without male heirs, highlighting the importance of family lineage and inheritance in Israelite society.

2. Daughters of Eleazar
They are significant because they inherited their father's portion, which was unusual in a patriarchal society, indicating a shift in inheritance practices.

3. Sons of Kish
Relatives of Eleazar who married his daughters, ensuring the continuation of Eleazar's family line and inheritance within the tribe of Levi.

4. Levites
The tribe to which Eleazar belonged, responsible for religious duties and temple service in Israel.

5. Inheritance Practices
The event underscores the flexibility in inheritance laws to preserve family lineage and property within the tribe.

Teaching Points

God's Provision in Family Structures
God's laws provided for the continuation of family lines and inheritance, even in non-traditional circumstances, demonstrating His care for family integrity and provision.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
The inclusion of Eleazar's daughters in the inheritance highlights the value and role of women in God's plan, challenging cultural norms and affirming their importance in His purposes.

Faithfulness to Family Responsibilities
The sons of Kish marrying Eleazar's daughters exemplify faithfulness to family responsibilities, ensuring the preservation of family heritage and property.

Adaptability of God's Laws
The flexibility in inheritance laws shows that God's laws are adaptable to ensure justice and equity, reflecting His character and concern for His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Eleazar's daughters challenge traditional views of inheritance and the role of women in biblical times?

2. In what ways does the marriage of Eleazar's daughters to their cousins reflect the principles of levirate marriage found in Deuteronomy 25:5-10?

3. How can we apply the principle of faithfulness to family responsibilities in our own lives today?

4. What does the inclusion of women in inheritance laws, as seen in 1 Chronicles 23:22 and Numbers 27:1-11, teach us about God's view of gender equality?

5. How can we ensure that our family practices reflect the adaptability and justice seen in God's laws regarding inheritance and family responsibilities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage discusses the daughters of Zelophehad, who also inherited their father's property due to the absence of a male heir, setting a precedent for inheritance rights for daughters.

Ruth 4:1-10
The account of Boaz and Ruth illustrates the concept of levirate marriage and the importance of preserving family lineage and property within the tribe.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This passage outlines the levirate marriage law, which is relevant to the marriage of Eleazar's daughters to their cousins.