1 Chronicles 3:20

and five others: Hashubah, Ohel, Berechiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-hesed.

Study Bible

and five others:
This phrase indicates that the list of names following are additional sons of Zerubbabel, a descendant of David. The number five is often symbolic in the Bible, representing grace or God's goodness. The mention of "five others" suggests a continuation of the Davidic line, which is significant in the context of messianic prophecy, as the Messiah was prophesied to come from David's lineage.

Hashubah:
The name Hashubah means "considerate" or "esteemed." Names in the Bible often carry significant meanings that reflect character or destiny. While there is little else known about Hashubah, the inclusion of his name in the genealogical record underscores the importance of each individual in the unfolding of God's plan through the Davidic line.

Ohel:
Ohel means "tent" or "tabernacle," which can symbolize God's presence among His people, as the tabernacle was the dwelling place of God during the Israelites' journey in the wilderness. This name may reflect a spiritual heritage or aspiration within the family line, pointing to the importance of God's presence and guidance.

Berechiah:
Berechiah means "Yahweh blesses." This name highlights the theme of divine blessing, which is a recurring motif in the Bible. The name suggests a recognition of God's providence and favor, which is particularly relevant in the context of the post-exilic community seeking restoration and blessing from God.

Hasadiah:
The name Hasadiah means "Yahweh is kind" or "Yahweh has been gracious." This reflects the character of God as merciful and compassionate. The inclusion of this name in the genealogy may serve as a reminder of God's kindness and faithfulness to His covenant people, even during times of exile and hardship.

Jushab-hesed:
Jushab-hesed means "return of lovingkindness" or "restored by grace." This name encapsulates the hope of restoration and redemption, themes central to the post-exilic period when the Israelites were returning to their homeland. It also echoes the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who embodies the ultimate return of lovingkindness to humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hashubah
One of the sons of Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David. His name means "consideration" or "thoughtfulness" in Hebrew.

2. Ohel
Another son of Zerubbabel. The name "Ohel" means "tent" or "tabernacle" in Hebrew, possibly indicating a connection to dwelling or presence.

3. Berechiah
Also a son of Zerubbabel. His name means "Yahweh blesses" or "blessed by the Lord" in Hebrew, reflecting a divine favor or blessing.

4. Hasadiah
Another son of Zerubbabel. The name "Hasadiah" means "Yahweh is kind" or "mercy of the Lord" in Hebrew, emphasizing God's kindness and mercy.

5. Jushab-hesed
The final son listed of Zerubbabel in this verse. His name means "return of love" or "restored love" in Hebrew, suggesting themes of reconciliation and restoration.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Names
In biblical times, names were often prophetic or descriptive of character. Reflect on the significance of your own name and how it might relate to your identity in Christ.

God's Blessing and Kindness
Berechiah and Hasadiah remind us of God's continual blessing and kindness. Consider how you can be a conduit of God's blessing and kindness to others.

Restoration and Reconciliation
Jushab-hesed speaks to the power of restored love. In what ways can you seek reconciliation in your relationships, mirroring God's restorative work in your life?

Legacy and Lineage
Zerubbabel's descendants remind us of the importance of spiritual legacy. How are you contributing to a legacy of faith in your family or community?

Thoughtfulness and Consideration
Hashubah's name encourages us to be thoughtful and considerate in our actions and decisions. How can you practice greater thoughtfulness in your daily life?

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the meanings of the names in 1 Chronicles 3:20 reflect the character of God, and how can these attributes be seen in your life today?

2. Zerubbabel is a key figure in the lineage of Jesus. How does understanding his role in biblical history enhance your appreciation of God's faithfulness to His promises?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's kindness or blessing. How can you share that experience to encourage others in their faith journey?

4. In what ways can you actively participate in God's work of restoration and reconciliation in your community or family?

5. Consider the legacy you are building. What steps can you take to ensure that it aligns with biblical principles and honors God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Zerubbabel's Lineage
Zerubbabel is a significant figure in the post-exilic period, and his lineage is mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises through David's line.

Names and Meanings
The meanings of the names in this verse can be connected to various Psalms and Proverbs that speak of God's blessing, kindness, and the importance of thoughtful consideration.

Restoration Themes
The name Jushab-hesed can be linked to the broader biblical theme of restoration, as seen in the prophetic books like Isaiah and Jeremiah, where God promises to restore Israel.