1 Chronicles 2:26

Jerahmeel had another wife named Atarah, who was the mother of Onam.

Study Bible

Jerahmeel
The name Jerahmeel means "God will have compassion" or "may God pity." In the context of 1 Chronicles, Jerahmeel is a descendant of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His lineage is significant as it highlights the continuation of the tribe of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. The mention of Jerahmeel underscores the importance of family lineage and God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen people.

had another wife
This phrase indicates the practice of polygamy, which was not uncommon in ancient Israelite culture. While polygamy was practiced by some of the patriarchs and kings, it often led to familial strife and complications, as seen in various biblical narratives. From a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the contrast between cultural practices of the time and the biblical ideal of monogamous marriage as later affirmed in the New Testament (e.g., Ephesians 5:31).

named Atarah
The name Atarah means "crown" or "wreath," symbolizing honor and distinction. In the biblical context, names often carried significant meaning and were sometimes prophetic or indicative of a person's role or character. Atarah's mention as Jerahmeel's wife and the mother of Onam suggests her importance in the genealogical record, contributing to the continuation of Jerahmeel's lineage.

who was the mother of Onam
Onam's mention here serves to trace the genealogy and heritage of the tribe of Judah. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are not merely historical records but are theological affirmations of God's covenant faithfulness. Each name represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive plan, culminating in the coming of the Messiah. The role of mothers in these genealogies, though often understated, is crucial as they bear and nurture the next generation of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jerahmeel
A descendant of Judah, Jerahmeel is part of the genealogical record in 1 Chronicles. His lineage is significant in understanding the tribe of Judah's history and its role in Israel's account.

2. Atarah
She is mentioned as Jerahmeel's other wife, indicating the practice of polygamy in ancient Israel. Her name means "crown" in Hebrew, which may symbolize honor or distinction.

3. Onam
The son of Jerahmeel and Atarah. His mention in the genealogy highlights the continuation of the family line, which is crucial in the context of Israel's tribal history.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genealogy
Genealogies in the Bible are not just historical records; they demonstrate God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. Reflect on how God has been faithful in your own family history.

Understanding Biblical Marriage Practices
The mention of multiple wives in the Old Testament reflects cultural practices of the time. Consider how cultural context influences our understanding of biblical accounts and how we apply biblical principles to modern life.

God's Sovereignty in Family Lines
Despite human imperfections and cultural practices, God's sovereign plan unfolds through family lines. Trust in God's overarching plan for your life, even when circumstances seem complex or challenging.

The Role of Women in Biblical Narratives
Atarah's mention, though brief, highlights the role of women in biblical genealogies. Recognize and appreciate the contributions of women in your own spiritual community.

Legacy and Spiritual Heritage
Onam's inclusion in the genealogy reminds us of the importance of leaving a spiritual legacy. Consider how you can invest in the next generation to ensure a lasting spiritual heritage.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in our own family histories, and how can this encourage us in our faith journey?

3. How should we approach cultural practices in the Bible, such as polygamy, when applying biblical principles to our lives today?

4. What can we learn from the brief mention of Atarah about the role and recognition of women in biblical times, and how can this inform our view of women's roles in the church today?

5. How can we actively work to leave a spiritual legacy for future generations, and what steps can we take to ensure that our faith is passed down effectively?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Judah and Tamar provides background on the tribe of Judah, to which Jerahmeel belongs. This connection emphasizes the importance of lineage and family in God's plan.

1 Samuel 27
David's interactions with the descendants of Judah, including the Jerahmeelites, show the ongoing significance of these genealogies in Israel's history.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus traces back to Judah, underscoring the importance of these ancestral records in the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy.