1 Chronicles 2:22
Segub was the father of Jair, who had twenty-three cities in the land of Gilead.
Segub
The name "Segub" is derived from the Hebrew root "sagab," which means "to be high" or "exalted." This name may reflect the status or aspirations of the family lineage. In the context of the genealogies in 1 Chronicles, Segub is a lesser-known figure, yet his mention signifies the importance of every link in the chain of Israel's history. Each name, including Segub, contributes to the unfolding account of God's covenant people, reminding us that even those who seem minor in the biblical narrative play a role in God's divine plan.

was the father of Jair
The phrase "was the father of" is a common genealogical term in the Bible, indicating lineage and heritage. In Hebrew, the word "yalad" is used, which means "to beget" or "to bring forth." This emphasizes the continuity of God's promises through generations. Jair, as a descendant of Segub, inherits not just a biological lineage but also a spiritual and cultural heritage. This highlights the biblical theme of generational blessings and responsibilities, where faith and leadership are passed down through family lines.

Jair
The name "Jair" means "he enlightens" or "he shines" in Hebrew. Jair is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known for his leadership and influence in the region of Gilead. His name suggests a person of insight and illumination, perhaps reflecting his role in bringing stability and prosperity to his people. Jair's legacy is a testament to the impact one individual can have when they walk in the light of God's wisdom and guidance.

who had twenty-three cities
The possession of "twenty-three cities" indicates significant influence and authority. In ancient times, owning multiple cities was a sign of wealth, power, and strategic importance. This detail underscores Jair's prominence and the extent of his leadership. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel regarding the land, as the Israelites were to inhabit and govern the territories allotted to them. Jair's control over these cities is a reminder of the blessings that come with faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

in the land of Gilead
Gilead is a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. The name "Gilead" means "rocky region" or "heap of testimony," which is fitting given its geographical features and historical significance. Gilead was a place of refuge and healing, often associated with God's provision and care. Jair's leadership in Gilead highlights the importance of this region in Israel's history and God's ongoing provision for His people. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual healing and refuge found in God's presence, where His people can thrive and fulfill their divine purpose.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Segub
A descendant of Judah, Segub is mentioned as the father of Jair. His lineage is significant in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah.

2. Jair
A prominent figure who is noted for having twenty-three cities in the land of Gilead. His influence and leadership are highlighted by the possession of these cities.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It was a significant area for the tribes of Israel, particularly for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.
Teaching Points
Leadership and Influence
Jair's possession of twenty-three cities indicates a significant level of leadership and influence. In our lives, we should strive to use our influence for the betterment of our communities, just as Jair did in Gilead.

Heritage and Legacy
The genealogical record highlights the importance of heritage and legacy. We should consider the legacy we are building and how it aligns with our faith and values.

God's Provision
The allocation of land in Gilead to Jair's family is a testament to God's provision for His people. We can trust in God's provision in our own lives, knowing that He has a plan for us.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
Owning and managing twenty-three cities would require diligent stewardship. We are called to be faithful stewards of the resources and responsibilities God has entrusted to us.
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from Jair's leadership and influence in the context of our own roles in our communities and families?

2. How does the historical context of Gilead's allocation to the tribes of Israel enhance our understanding of God's provision and promises?

3. In what ways can we ensure that the legacy we leave aligns with our Christian faith and values?

4. How can we apply the principle of faithful stewardship in our daily lives, particularly in managing the resources and responsibilities we have been given?

5. Reflecting on the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles, how can we appreciate the importance of our spiritual heritage and its impact on our identity as believers?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Numbers 32
This chapter discusses the allocation of the land of Gilead to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, providing context for Jair's possession of cities in this region.

Judges 10
Jair is mentioned as a judge of Israel, further emphasizing his leadership role and the significance of his influence in the region of Gilead.

Deuteronomy 3
This passage describes the conquest of the land of Gilead, offering historical background on how the Israelites came to possess this territory.
The Human FamilyW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 2:1-55
The Prowess of JairR. Tuck 1 Chronicles 2:22, 23
On the Genealogical TablesR. Glover 1 Chronicles 1-6
GenealogiesJ.R. Thomson 1 Chronicles 1-9
People
Abiah, Abigail, Abihail, Abijah, Abinadab, Abishai, Abishur, Achan, Achar, Achsa, Achsah, Ahban, Ahijah, Ahlai, Amasa, Amminadab, Appaim, Aram, Ardon, Asahel, Asher, Ashur, Atarah, Attai, Azariah, Azubah, Bathshua, Benjamin, Bezaleel, Boaz, Bunah, Calcol, Caleb, Carmi, Chelubai, Dan, Dara, Darda, David, Eker, Elasah, Eleasah, Eliab, Elishama, Ephah, Ephlal, Ephratah, Ephrath, Er, Eshtaolites, Eshtaulites, Ethan, Gad, Gazez, Gesham, Geshem, Hamul, Haran, Hareph, Haroeh, Hazi-hammana-hethites, Helez, Heman, Hemath, Hezron, Hur, Ishi, Issachar, Ithrites, Jabez, Jada, Jahdai, Jair, Jamin, Jarha, Jehu, Jekamiah, Jerahmeel, Jerioth, Jesher, Jesse, Jether, Jithrites, Joab, Jonathan, Joseph, Jotham, Kenites, Korah, Levi, Maacah, Maachah, Maaz, Machir, Manahathites, Manahethites, Maon, Menahethites, Mesha, Mishraites, Molid, Moza, Nadab, Nahshon, Naphtali, Nathan, Nethaneel, Netophathites, Obed, Onam, Onan, Oren, Ozem, Pelet, Peleth, Perez, Pharez, Puhites, Puthites, Raddai, Raham, Rechab, Regem, Rekem, Reuben, Salma, Salmon, Segub, Seled, Shaaph, Shallum, Shammai, Sheber, Shelah, Shema, Sheshan, Sheva, Shimea, Shimeathites, Shimma, Shobab, Shobal, Shua, Shumathites, Simeon, Sisamai, Sucathites, Suchathites, Tamar, Tappuah, Tirathites, Tireathites, Tirhanah, Uri, Zabad, Zareathites, Zaza, Zebulun, Zerah, Zereathites, Zeruiah, Zimri, Zorathites, Zoreathites, Zorites, Zur
Places
Aram, Edom, Geshur, Gilead, Hammath, Havvoth-jair, Jabez, Kenath
Topics
Begat, Begot, Cities, Controlled, Gilead, Jair, Ja'ir, Segub, Towns, Twenty, Twenty-three
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 2:3

     5688   firstborn

Library
Canaan
Canaan was the inheritance which the Israelites won for themselves by the sword. Their ancestors had already settled in it in patriarchal days. Abraham "the Hebrew" from Babylonia had bought in it a burying-place near Hebron; Jacob had purchased a field near Shechem, where he could water his flocks from his own spring. It was the "Promised Land" to which the serfs of the Pharaoh in Goshen looked forward when they should again become free men and find a new home for themselves. Canaan had ever been
Archibald Sayce—Early Israel and the Surrounding Nations

The Quotation in Matt. Ii. 6.
Several interpreters, Paulus especially, have asserted that the interpretation of Micah which is here given, was that of the Sanhedrim only, and not of the Evangelist, who merely recorded what happened and was said. But this assertion is at once refuted when we consider the object which Matthew has in view in his entire representation of the early life of Jesus. His object in recording the early life of Jesus is not like that of Luke, viz., to communicate historical information to his readers.
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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