The sons of Kenaz: Othniel and Seraiah.
Kenaz is a notable figure in the genealogies of Judah, and his descendants play significant roles in Israel's history. Othniel, the first named son, is particularly important as he becomes the first judge of Israel after the conquest of Canaan (Judges 3:9-11). This highlights the theme of deliverance and leadership, as Othniel is empowered by the Spirit of the Lord to deliver Israel from oppression. Seraiah, though less prominent, is part of the lineage that contributes to the tribe of Judah's strength and continuity. The mention of Kenaz and his sons underscores the importance of family lineage in maintaining tribal identity and fulfilling God's promises to Israel.

The sons of Othniel: Hathath and Meonothai.
Othniel's sons, Hathath and Meonothai, are less well-known, but their inclusion in the genealogical record serves to establish the continuity of Othniel's line. This continuity is crucial for understanding the preservation of the tribe of Judah and its eventual role in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. The genealogies in Chronicles often emphasize the faithfulness of God in preserving His people through successive generations. While specific details about Hathath and Meonothai are sparse, their mention ensures that the legacy of Othniel, a deliverer of Israel, is remembered and honored within the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan.

1. Kenaz
A descendant of Judah, Kenaz is an important figure in the genealogy of the tribe of Judah. His lineage includes notable leaders and warriors.

2. Othniel
The son of Kenaz, Othniel is recognized as the first judge of Israel after the conquest of Canaan. He is known for delivering Israel from the oppression of Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Aram-Naharaim.

3. Seraiah
Another son of Kenaz, though less is known about him compared to Othniel. His mention signifies the importance of family lineage in the chronicling of Israel's history.

4. Hathath
A descendant of Othniel, Hathath's mention in the genealogy underscores the continuation of the family line.

5. Meonothai
Another descendant of Othniel, Meonothai's inclusion highlights the importance of preserving family heritage and legacy.The Importance of Godly Heritage
The genealogy in 1 Chronicles 4:13 highlights the significance of family lineage in God's plan. Believers are encouraged to value their spiritual heritage and pass on their faith to future generations.

Leadership and Faithfulness
Othniel's role as a judge demonstrates the importance of godly leadership. Christians are called to lead with integrity and faithfulness, trusting in God's guidance.

God's Deliverance
Othniel's account is a reminder of God's faithfulness in delivering His people. Believers can trust in God's power to deliver them from spiritual oppression and challenges.

Legacy and Influence
The mention of descendants like Hathath and Meonothai underscores the impact of one's legacy. Christians are encouraged to live lives that positively influence others and glorify God.Verses 13-15. - We return here to the neighbourhood of names not quite strange. From comparison of the many passages in Numbers, Joshua, and Judges, which contain references to Othniel and Caleb (son of Jephunneh), the stronger conclusion to which we are led is that Othniel was younger brother of Caleb (probably not by both the same parents) and Kenaz a forefather, of course not literally father. The conclusion is not arrived at without difficulty, or with any real certainty. In the present instance, e.g., why should Othniel, if the younger brother and so expressly and repeatedly mentioned, be taken first? For the possible Kenaz of this passage, we might then refer to 1 Chronicles 1:53; Genesis 36:42. Hathath. The marginal reading, which joins Meonothai at once to Hathath, and then supplies "who" before "begat Ophrah," is decidedly to be adopted. Joab son of Seraiah is not to be assumed to be one with Joab son of Zeruiah. The valley of the Charashim (see also Nehemiah 11:35), i.e. smiths, or craftsmen, lay east of Jaffa, and behind the plain of Sharon; and is said by Jerome, in his 'Quaestiones Hebraicae in Paral.,' to have been, according to tradition, named so because the architects of the temple came thence. Iru. Perhaps the real name is It, and the final vau rather an initial for the next name. Elah. Probably another name is wanting after this, which the vau will then join to Kenaz; otherwise, as vau will not translate "even," the following name will become, as in the margin, Uknaz. The wanting name might be the Jehalaleel of the next verse. This last name is in the Hebrew identical with the Jehalelel of our Authorized Version (2 Chronicles 29:12).

Parallel Commentaries ...


The sons
וּבְנֵ֣י (ū·ḇə·nê)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Kenaz:
קְנַ֔ז (qə·naz)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7073: Kenaz -- an Edomite, also two Israelites

Othniel
עָתְנִיאֵ֖ל (‘ā·ṯə·nî·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6274: Othniel -- a hero in Israel

and Seraiah.
וּשְׂרָיָ֑ה (ū·śə·rā·yāh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8304: Seraiah -- 'Yah persists', the name of a number of Israelites

The sons
וּבְנֵ֥י (ū·ḇə·nê)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Othniel:
עָתְנִיאֵ֖ל (‘ā·ṯə·nî·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6274: Othniel -- a hero in Israel

Hathath and Meonothai.
חֲתַֽת׃ (ḥă·ṯaṯ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 2867: Hathath -- an Israelite


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 4:13 The sons of Kenaz: Othniel and Seraiah (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)