1 Chronicles 2:34

Sheshan had no sons, but only daughters; but he did have an Egyptian servant named Jarha.

Study Bible

Now Sheshan had no sons
The mention of Sheshan having no sons is significant in the context of ancient Israelite society, where lineage and inheritance were typically passed through male descendants. The Hebrew root for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which emphasizes the importance of male heirs in maintaining family lineage and property. This situation sets the stage for an unusual inheritance practice, highlighting God's providence and the flexibility within the law to ensure the continuation of a family line.

only daughters
The phrase "only daughters" underscores the unique situation Sheshan faced. In a patriarchal society, daughters were often seen as less favorable heirs. However, the Bible frequently elevates the status of women, showing that God's plans often transcend cultural norms. The Hebrew word for "daughters" is "בָּנוֹת" (banot), which can also imply the nurturing and continuation of family values through female descendants.

But he had an Egyptian servant
The introduction of an "Egyptian servant" named Jarha is intriguing. The term "servant" in Hebrew is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can mean a servant or a bondman. This highlights the social dynamics and the presence of foreigners within Israelite households. The mention of Jarha being Egyptian may also remind readers of Israel's history with Egypt, suggesting themes of redemption and integration of outsiders into God's covenant community.

whose name was Jarha
The name "Jarha" is of uncertain origin, but its inclusion signifies the importance of individuals in God's narrative, regardless of their social status or ethnic background. This reflects the biblical theme that God often uses unexpected people to fulfill His purposes. The naming of Jarha personalizes the story, indicating his significant role in the continuation of Sheshan's lineage, which is further elaborated in the subsequent verses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sheshan
A member of the tribe of Judah, specifically from the family of Jerahmeel. He is noted for having no sons, which was significant in the context of inheritance and lineage in ancient Israel.

2. Daughters of Sheshan
Though unnamed in this verse, they play a crucial role in the continuation of Sheshan's lineage, highlighting the importance of women in biblical genealogies.

3. Jarha
An Egyptian servant in Sheshan's household. His mention indicates a cross-cultural interaction and the inclusion of non-Israelites in the lineage of Judah.

4. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its significant role in biblical history, including being the tribe of King David and Jesus Christ.

5. Egypt
A neighboring nation to Israel, often seen as a place of both refuge and bondage in biblical accounts. Jarha's Egyptian origin is noteworthy in the context of Israelite history.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
Despite cultural norms, God uses unexpected means to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Sheshan's lineage through his daughters and an Egyptian servant.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
The mention of Sheshan's daughters highlights the significant role women play in biblical accounts and God's redemptive history.

Inclusion of the Outsider
Jarha's inclusion in the genealogy of Judah points to God's heart for all nations and foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in the New Covenant.

Cultural and Social Barriers
The account challenges cultural and social barriers, showing that God's purposes transcend human limitations and prejudices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of Jarha, an Egyptian, in the lineage of Judah reflect God's plan for inclusivity in His kingdom?

2. In what ways does the account of Sheshan's daughters challenge the cultural norms of inheritance and lineage in ancient Israel?

3. How can we apply the principle of God's sovereignty in using unexpected people and circumstances in our own lives?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where women play a crucial role in God's redemptive history, and how does this influence your understanding of their role in the church today?

5. How does the inclusion of non-Israelites in biblical genealogies encourage us to view and interact with people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his marriage to an Egyptian woman, Asenath, shows another instance of Israelite-Egyptian relations.

Ruth 4
The account of Ruth, a Moabite woman, who becomes part of the lineage of David, illustrating the inclusion of foreigners in God's plan.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus includes several women and non-Israelites, emphasizing God's inclusive plan for salvation.