New International Version Beth Markaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri and Shaaraim. These were their towns until the reign of David. New Living Translation Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These towns were under their control until the time of King David. English Standard Version Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until David reigned. Berean Standard Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. Berean Literal Bible and Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and Beth-biri, and in Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. King James Bible And at Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusim, and at Bethbirei, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities unto the reign of David. New King James Version Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. New American Standard Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. NASB 1995 Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. NASB 1977 Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. Legacy Standard Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. Amplified Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. Berean Annotated Bible Beth-marcaboth (house of the chariots), Hazar-susim (village of horses), Beth-biri (house of a creative one), and Shaaraim (double gate). These were their cities until the reign of David (beloved). Christian Standard Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until David became king. Holman Christian Standard Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until David became king. American Standard Version and at Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and at Beth-biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities unto the reign of David. English Revised Version and at Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and at Beth-biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities unto the reign of David. GOD'S WORD® Translation Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until David became king. Good News Translation Beth Marcaboth, Hazarsusim, Bethbiri, and Shaaraim. International Standard Version Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until David began to reign. NET Bible Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri, and Shaaraim. These were their towns until the reign of David. New Heart English Bible and at Beth Marcaboth, and Hazar Susim, and at Beth Biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities until David became king. Webster's Bible Translation And at Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and at Beth-birei, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities to the reign of David. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBeth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. World English Bible at Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susim, at Beth Biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities until David’s reign. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand in Beth-Marcaboth, and in Hazar-Susim, and in Beth-Birei, and in Shaarim; these [are] their cities until the reigning of David. Berean Literal Bible and Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and Beth-biri, and in Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. Young's Literal Translation and in Beth-Marcaboth, and in Hazar-Susim, and in Beth-Birei, and in Shaarim; these are their cities till the reigning of David. Smith's Literal Translation And at the house of Chariots, and at the enclosure of horses, and at the house of my creation, and at the gates. These their cities even to king David. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd in Bethmarchaboth, and in Hasarsusim, and in Bethberai, and in Saarim. These were their cities unto the reign of David. Catholic Public Domain Version and in Beth-marcaboth, and in Hazarsusim, and in Bethbiri, and in Shaaraim. These were their cities until king David. New American Bible Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Bethbiri, and Shaaraim. Until the reign of David, these were their cities New Revised Standard Version Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their towns until David became king. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd in Marmeranah and Samsalah. These were their cities until the reign of David. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917and at Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and at Beth-biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities unto the reign of David. Brenton Septuagint Translation and in Baethmarimoth, and Hemisuseosin, and the house of Baruseorim: these were their cities until the time of king David. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context More Descendants of Judah…30Bethuel, Hormah, Ziklag, 31 Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David. 32And their villages were Etam, Ain, Rimmon, Tochen, and Ashan—five towns—… Cross References Beth-marcaboth, Joshua 19:5 Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah, 1 Kings 9:19 as well as all the store cities that Solomon had for his chariots and horses—whatever he desired to build in Jerusalem, Lebanon, and throughout the land of his dominion. Hazar-susim, 1 Kings 4:26 Solomon had 4,000 stalls for his chariot horses and 12,000 horses. 2 Chronicles 1:14 Solomon accumulated 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses, which he stationed in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem. Beth-biri, Joshua 19:6 Beth-lebaoth, and Sharuhen—thirteen cities, along with their villages. 1 Samuel 30:26-31 When David arrived in Ziklag, he sent some of the plunder to his friends, the elders of Judah, saying, “Here is a gift for you from the plunder of the LORD’s enemies.” / He sent gifts to those in Bethel, Ramoth Negev, and Jattir; / to those in Aroer, Siphmoth, and Eshtemoa; … and Shaaraim. Joshua 15:36 Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)—fourteen cities, along with their villages. 1 Samuel 17:52 Then the men of Israel and Judah charged forward with a shout and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of Gath and to the gates of Ekron. And the bodies of the Philistines were strewn along the Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron. These were their cities until the reign of David. 2 Samuel 5:3-5 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where King David made with them a covenant before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel. / David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. / In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years over all Israel and Judah. 2 Samuel 8:1-14 Some time later, David defeated the Philistines, subdued them, and took Metheg-ammah from the hand of the Philistines. / David also defeated the Moabites, made them lie down on the ground, and measured them off with a cord. He measured off with two lengths those to be put to death, and with one length those to be spared. So the Moabites became subject to David and brought him tribute. / David also defeated Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah, who had marched out to restore his dominion along the Euphrates River. … Joshua 19:1-9 The second lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Simeon: Their inheritance lay within the territory of Judah / and included Beersheba (or Sheba), Moladah, / Hazar-shual, Balah, Ezem, … 1 Samuel 27:6 That day Achish gave him Ziklag, and to this day it still belongs to the kings of Judah. 2 Samuel 2:1-4 Some time later, David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” “Go up,” the LORD answered. Then David asked, “Where should I go?” “To Hebron,” replied the LORD. / So David went there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel. / David also took the men who were with him, each with his household, and they settled in the towns near Hebron. … 2 Samuel 24:7 They went toward the fortress of Tyre and all the cities of the Hivites and Canaanites. Finally, they went on to the Negev of Judah, to Beersheba. 1 Kings 19:3 And Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 2 Kings 23:8 Then Josiah brought all the priests from the cities of Judah and desecrated the high places, from Geba to Beersheba, where the priests had burned incense. He tore down the high places of the gates at the entrance of the gate of Joshua the governor of the city, which was to the left of the city gate. Treasury of Scripture And at Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusim, and at Bethbirei, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities to the reign of David. and Hazar-susim. Joshua 19:5,6 And Ziklag, and Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusah, … Hazar-susah, Beth-lebaoth, Sharuhen. Jump to Previous Beth Bethmarcaboth Beth-Marcaboth Beth-Mar'caboth Cities David Hazar Marcaboth Reign Reigned Reigning Shaaraim TownsJump to Next Beth Bethmarcaboth Beth-Marcaboth Beth-Mar'caboth Cities David Hazar Marcaboth Reign Reigned Reigning Shaaraim Towns1 Chronicles 4 1. The posterity of Judah by Caleb, the son of Hur.5. Of Ashur, the posthumous son Hezron. 9. Of Jabez, and his prayer. 11. The other families of the same stock. 21. The sons of Shelah. 24. The posterity and cities of Simeon. 39. Their conquest of Gedor, and of the Amalekites in mount Seir. Beth-marcaboth, Beth-marcaboth, meaning “house of chariots,” stood within Simeon’s inheritance in the southern land, an area where travel routes and defense of the Negev were important. Its association with chariots recalls the military strength often represented by chariots in Scripture, including Pharaoh’s pursuit of Israel at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:7). Jos 19:5 Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah, Hazar-susim, Hazar-susim was identified with horses, animals valued for transport, warfare, and royal power. Israel was not to place its confidence in horses and chariots, but in the Lord (Psalm 20:7); nevertheless, such resources formed part of the practical defense of the land entrusted to the tribes. 1Ki 4:26 Solomon had 4,000 stalls for his chariot horses… Beth-biri, Beth-biri, meaning “house of my creation” or “house of my well,” belonged to the network of Simeonite settlements that sustained families, flocks, and community life in the southern territory. The listing of even lesser-known towns shows that God’s covenant care extended to the particular places where His people lived and served. Jos 19:6 Beth-lebaoth, and Sharuhen—thirteen cities,… and Shaaraim. Shaaraim, meaning “two gates,” was likely a fortified settlement, fitting the need for protected communities along the vulnerable southern frontier. Gates represented security, civic authority, and judgment in Israel’s cities, making a well-defended town important for preserving Simeon’s inheritance. Jos 15:36 Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)… These were their cities until the reign of David. Simeon retained these cities through the period of the judges and into the early monarchy. David’s reign brought major changes to Israel’s administration, military organization, and national unity, as the tribes were increasingly gathered under one king according to God’s purpose. 2Sa 5:3-5 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron… Persons / Places / Events 1. Beth-marcabothA town mentioned in the territory of the tribe of Simeon. The name means "house of chariots," indicating a possible military significance or a place where chariots were kept or manufactured. 2. Hazar-susim Another town in the Simeonite territory. The name translates to "village of horses," suggesting a place associated with horse breeding or stabling. 3. Beth-biri A town whose name means "house of my creation" or "house of my well," indicating a place of personal or divine significance. 4. Shaaraim A town meaning "two gates," possibly indicating a fortified city with significant defenses. 5. Reign of David Refers to the period when David was king over Israel, a time of consolidation and expansion for the nation. Teaching Points Significance of Place NamesThe names of places often carry historical and spiritual significance. Understanding these can deepen our appreciation of biblical accounts and God's work in history. God's Sovereignty in Territorial Changes The transition of these towns until the reign of David illustrates God's hand in the shifting of territories and leadership. It reminds us of His control over nations and leaders. Legacy and Heritage The mention of these towns in the context of Simeon's inheritance encourages us to consider our spiritual heritage and the legacy we leave for future generations. The Role of Leadership David's reign marked a significant period of change and consolidation. This highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding and shaping communities and nations. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 4:31?2. How does 1 Chronicles 4:31 highlight the importance of genealogies in Scripture? 3. What can we learn from the towns listed in 1 Chronicles 4:31? 4. How does 1 Chronicles 4:31 connect with God's promises to the tribes of Israel? 5. How can we apply the historical context of 1 Chronicles 4:31 to our lives? 6. Why is it important to remember the heritage mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:31? 7. What historical significance do the towns in 1 Chronicles 4:31 hold in biblical history? 8. How does 1 Chronicles 4:31 contribute to understanding the tribal territories of Israel? 9. What archaeological evidence supports the existence of the towns listed in 1 Chronicles 4:31? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 4? What Does 1 Chronicles 4:31 Mean Beth-marcaboth• This settlement appears in the original allotment for the tribe of Simeon (Joshua 19:5) and is repeated in 1 Chronicles 4:31 to underline that God kept His word about Israel’s tribal boundaries. • Located in the Negev—the dry southern reaches of Judah—it likely served as a strategic hub on caravan routes. That fits the surrounding context of 1 Samuel 27:6–10, where David and his men moved freely through this region. • By citing the town again generations later, the Chronicler highlights God’s faithfulness: what He assigns, He preserves, even in an arid land (Psalm 37:18). Hazar-susim • Also listed with Simeon in Joshua 19:6, this “enclosure” town probably supported flocks and herds, connecting with the shepherd image woven through Scripture (Genesis 46:34; John 10:14). • Its mention reminds us that the tribe of Simeon relied on pastoral life in territory technically inside Judah’s borders, demonstrating inter-tribal cooperation long before the united monarchy (Judges 1:3). • 1 Chronicles 4:38-41 later shows Simeonite leaders pushing southward for more grazing land, a continuation of the story anchored in places like Hazar-susim. Beth-biri • Named again only in Joshua 19:6, this town lies in the same cluster. The Chronicler’s repetition affirms the literal continuity of these communities from Joshua to David—roughly four centuries (Acts 13:20). • Such continuity matters: it proves that Israel’s census lists (Numbers 26:14) translated into real villages where families lived, worshiped, and raised children, fulfilling Deuteronomy 1:8. • The stable existence of Beth-biri until David’s reign mirrors God’s promise to plant His people securely (2 Samuel 7:10). Shaaraim • Mentioned earlier in the account of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:52), Shaaraim marks the western edge of the Shephelah. Its reappearance links the Simeonite register to David’s rise. • Because David’s early victories radiated from this vicinity, the Chronicler subtly shows how God was preparing the nation’s future king while preserving Simeon’s settlements (Psalm 78:70-71). • “These were their cities until the reign of David” signals a historical pivot: when David assumed power, administrative boundaries shifted (2 Samuel 5:5-9), and Simeon’s identity blended more fully into Judah (1 Kings 12:21). summary 1 Chronicles 4:31 is more than a catalog of obscure towns; it is a testimony that God faithfully sustained Simeon’s inheritance from Joshua’s conquest right up to David’s throne. Each place—Beth-marcaboth in the desert, Hazar-susim among the flocks, Beth-biri in family life, and Shaaraim on the military frontier—shows a facet of God’s provision. By recording that they endured “until the reign of David,” Scripture marks the moment when the Lord transitioned Israel from tribal loose-knit living to united monarchy, all without losing track of a single village He had promised. (31) Beth-marcaboth = “house of chariots.”Hazar - susim = “village of horses;” for which Hazarsusah is an equivalent (susah being used as a collective word). Beth-birei.—Probably a corrupt writing of Beth-lebaoth, “house of lionesses” (Joshua 19:6), for which Joshua 15:32 has the contraction Lebaoth. There were lions in the wilds of Judah (1Samuel 17:34). (Comp. Judges 14:5; 1Kings 13:24... Hebrew Beth-marcaboth,מַרְכָּבוֹת֙ (mar·kā·ḇō·wṯ) Conjunctive waw, Preposition | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 1024: Beth-marcaboth -- 'place of chariots', a place in Simeon Hazar-susim, סוּסִ֔ים (sū·sîm) Conjunctive waw, Preposition | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 2702: Hazar-susim -- 'village of horses', a place in Simeon Beth-biri, בִּרְאִ֖י (bir·’î) Conjunctive waw, Preposition | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 1011: Beth-biri -- 'house of a creative one', a place in Palestine and Shaaraim. וּֽבְשַׁעֲרָ֑יִם (ū·ḇə·ša·‘ă·rā·yim) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 8189: Shaaraim -- two cities in Israel These אֵ֥לֶּה (’êl·leh) Pronoun - common plural Strong's 428: These, those were their cities עָרֵיהֶ֖ם (‘ā·rê·hem) Noun - feminine plural construct | third person masculine plural Strong's 5892: Excitement until עַד־ (‘aḏ-) Preposition Strong's 5704: As far as, even to, up to, until, while the reign מְלֹ֥ךְ (mə·lōḵ) Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct Strong's 4427: To reign, inceptively, to ascend the throne, to induct into royalty, to take counsel of David. דָּוִֽיד׃ (dā·wîḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 1732: David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse Additonal Resources 1 Chronicles 4:31 Blue Letter Bible1 Chronicles 4:31 Bible Gateway 1 Chronicles 4:31 Bible.com 1 Chronicles 4:31 NIV |
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