1 Chronicles 7:37

Bezer, Hod, Shamma, Shilshah, Ithran, and Beera.

Study Bible

Bezer
The name "Bezer" is derived from the Hebrew root "בָּצַר" (batsar), meaning "fortress" or "stronghold." In the context of ancient Israel, Bezer was also a city of refuge, as mentioned in Joshua 20:8. This city provided sanctuary for those who accidentally committed manslaughter, symbolizing God's provision of safety and justice. Spiritually, Bezer can be seen as a representation of Christ, our refuge and strength, offering protection and salvation to those who seek Him.

Hod
The name "Hod" is less frequently mentioned in the Bible, and its meaning is somewhat obscure. However, it is often associated with "splendor" or "majesty." In a broader biblical context, "hod" is used to describe the glory and majesty of God, as seen in Psalm 104:1. This highlights the divine nature and the beauty of God's creation, reminding believers of the awe-inspiring presence of the Almighty.

Shamma
The name "Shamma" is derived from the Hebrew root "שָׁמַע" (shama), meaning "to hear" or "to listen." This root is significant in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing the importance of hearing and obeying God's word. In Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema, a central declaration of faith in Judaism, begins with "Hear, O Israel." This underscores the call for believers to be attentive to God's voice and to live in accordance with His commandments.

Shilshah
The name "Shilshah" is not widely referenced in biblical texts, and its meaning is uncertain. However, it may be related to the Hebrew word "שָׁלֹשׁ" (shalosh), meaning "three" or "third." The number three holds significant symbolic meaning in the Bible, often representing completeness or divine perfection, as seen in the Trinity. This can inspire believers to reflect on the completeness found in God's nature and His work in the world.

Ithran
The name "Ithran" is derived from the Hebrew root "יָתַר" (yatar), meaning "to remain" or "to be left over." This root can convey the idea of abundance or surplus. In a spiritual sense, it reminds believers of God's provision and the abundance of His blessings. It also calls to mind the remnant theology found throughout Scripture, where God preserves a faithful group of people who remain true to Him despite widespread unfaithfulness.

Beera
The name "Beera" is related to the Hebrew word "בְּאֵר" (be'er), meaning "well" or "spring." Wells were vital sources of water in the arid regions of the ancient Near East, symbolizing life and sustenance. In a spiritual context, wells can represent the living water that Christ offers, as seen in John 4:14. This imagery encourages believers to seek the life-giving sustenance that only Jesus can provide, quenching spiritual thirst and offering eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezer
A descendant of Asher, Bezer is mentioned here as part of the genealogical record. The name Bezer means "fortress" or "stronghold" in Hebrew, which may symbolize strength and protection.

2. Hod
Another descendant of Asher, Hod's name means "splendor" or "majesty" in Hebrew, suggesting a person of notable presence or character.

3. Shamma
This name appears in various contexts in the Bible, often associated with individuals of valor or significance. In Hebrew, Shamma can mean "astonishment" or "desolation."

4. Shilshah
Little is known about Shilshah beyond this genealogical mention. The name may derive from a root meaning "third" or "triplet," indicating a possible birth order or family significance.

5. Ithran
Also a descendant of Asher, Ithran's name means "abundance" or "advantage" in Hebrew, suggesting prosperity or blessing.

6. Beera
The name Beera means "well" or "fountain" in Hebrew, often symbolizing life-giving resources or sustenance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can provide insight into God's plan and purpose for our lives. Just as the genealogies in Chronicles trace the lineage of God's people, we are reminded of our place in God's family.

Names Reflecting Character
The meanings of names in the Bible often reveal character traits or divine purposes. Reflect on the significance of your own name and how it might relate to your identity in Christ.

God's Faithfulness Through Generations
The genealogies remind us of God's unwavering faithfulness to His people across generations. We can trust that God is working in our lives and the lives of our descendants.

The Role of Each Individual
Every person listed in the genealogies, no matter how briefly mentioned, played a role in God's redemptive history. Recognize that your life has significance and purpose in God's plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the genealogies in 1 Chronicles help us appreciate the continuity of God's plan throughout history?

2. In what ways can the meanings of the names listed in 1 Chronicles 7:37 inspire us to reflect on our own identity and purpose in Christ?

3. How do the genealogies in the Bible, such as those in 1 Chronicles, connect to the promises made to the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?

4. What can we learn from the fact that each individual, even those mentioned briefly in genealogies, has a role in God's account?

5. How can we apply the concept of God's faithfulness through generations to our own family and community relationships today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genealogies in Scripture
The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 7:37 connect to other genealogies in the Bible, such as those in Genesis and Matthew, highlighting the importance of lineage and God's faithfulness through generations.

Tribe of Asher
The descendants of Asher are mentioned in various parts of the Bible, including the blessings of Jacob in Genesis 49, where Asher is promised abundance and prosperity.

Names and Meanings
The significance of names in the Bible often reflects character traits or prophetic insights, as seen in other scriptures where names are given with specific meanings or purposes.