1 Chronicles 2:38
Obed was the father of Jehu, Jehu was the father of Azariah,
Azel had six sons
The name "Azel" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "noble" or "reserved." In the genealogical context of 1 Chronicles, Azel is a descendant of King Saul, highlighting the continuation of Saul's lineage despite his fall from grace. The mention of "six sons" signifies completeness and blessing in Hebrew culture, as the number six often symbolizes human effort and the divine blessing upon it. This phrase underscores the importance of family lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises through generations.

Azrikam
The name "Azrikam" means "my help has risen" or "help has arisen" in Hebrew. This name reflects a divine acknowledgment of God's assistance and presence in the lives of His people. In the broader biblical narrative, names often carry prophetic or spiritual significance, indicating the character or destiny of the individual. Azrikam's inclusion in the genealogy serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the hope that arises from divine intervention.

Bocheru
"Bocheru" is a name that means "firstborn" in Hebrew. The firstborn son held a place of prominence and responsibility in ancient Israelite culture, often receiving a double portion of the inheritance. This name highlights the importance of birth order and the expectations placed upon the firstborn to lead and uphold family traditions. It also serves as a reminder of the spiritual inheritance and responsibilities that come with being part of God's chosen people.

Ishmael
The name "Ishmael" means "God hears" in Hebrew. This name is significant in biblical history, as it was also the name of Abraham's first son by Hagar. The repetition of this name in different contexts underscores the theme of God's attentiveness to human cries and prayers. It serves as a testament to the belief that God is always listening and responsive to the needs of His people, providing comfort and assurance.

Sheariah
"Sheariah" means "valued by the Lord" or "the Lord is my kinsman" in Hebrew. This name reflects a deep sense of belonging and worth in the eyes of God. It emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and His people, where each individual is cherished and valued. The inclusion of Sheariah in the genealogy highlights the personal nature of God's love and the significance of each person in His divine plan.

Obadiah
The name "Obadiah" means "servant of the Lord" in Hebrew. This name is a powerful reminder of the call to servanthood and devotion to God. Throughout the Bible, servanthood is portrayed as a noble and honorable role, exemplified by figures like Moses, David, and ultimately, Jesus Christ. Obadiah's presence in the genealogy serves as an inspiration for believers to live lives of service and dedication to God's purposes.

Hanan
"Hanan" means "gracious" or "merciful" in Hebrew. This name reflects the character of God, who is described throughout Scripture as gracious and compassionate. The inclusion of Hanan in the genealogy serves as a reminder of the grace that God extends to His people, offering forgiveness, love, and redemption. It encourages believers to embody these qualities in their own lives, reflecting God's character to the world.

All these were the sons of Azel
This concluding phrase emphasizes the unity and collective identity of Azel's descendants. It highlights the importance of family and community in the biblical narrative, where individuals are often defined by their relationships and roles within the larger family structure. This phrase serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of God's people and the shared heritage and destiny they possess as part of His covenant family.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Azel
A descendant of King Saul, Azel is mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin. His lineage is significant in tracing the heritage of the Benjamites.

2. Azrikam
One of Azel's sons, his name means "help against the enemy" in Hebrew, indicating a possible role or characteristic attributed to him.

3. Bocheru
Another son of Azel, his name means "firstborn" or "youthful," suggesting a position of prominence or a youthful characteristic.

4. Ishmael
A common name in the Bible, meaning "God hears." This name is shared with other notable biblical figures, indicating a legacy of divine attention or intervention.

5. Sheariah
His name means "Yahweh is ruler," reflecting a theocentric worldview and possibly a dedication to God's sovereignty.

6. Obadiah
Meaning "servant of Yahweh," this name is shared with other biblical figures, emphasizing a life dedicated to serving God.

7. Hanan
Meaning "gracious" or "merciful," this name reflects a characteristic of God, possibly indicating a life marked by grace.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Genealogy
Understanding our spiritual heritage can provide insight into God's faithfulness across generations. The genealogies in Chronicles remind us of God's ongoing work through families and tribes.

Names Reflecting Character and Calling
The meanings of names in the Bible often reflect the character or calling of individuals. Reflect on how your name or identity in Christ shapes your life and purpose.

Legacy of Faith
Azel's sons, though not widely known, are part of a larger account of faith. Consider how your life contributes to the legacy of faith in your family and community.

God's Sovereignty and Service
Names like Sheariah and Obadiah remind us of the importance of recognizing God's rule and serving Him faithfully. Evaluate areas in your life where you can better serve God and acknowledge His sovereignty.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the genealogies in 1 Chronicles help us appreciate the continuity of God's plan throughout history?

2. Reflect on the meaning of your name or your identity in Christ. How does it influence your daily life and decisions?

3. In what ways can you contribute to a legacy of faith in your family or community, similar to the descendants of Azel?

4. How do the names and meanings of Azel's sons inspire you to live out your faith with purpose and intentionality?

5. Consider the role of servanthood in your life. How can you better serve God and others, following the example of biblical figures like Obadiah?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Chronicles 8:38
This verse also lists the sons of Azel, providing a parallel account and reinforcing the genealogical record of the tribe of Benjamin.

Genesis 16:11
The name Ishmael is first introduced here, connecting the theme of God hearing and responding to human needs.

Obadiah 1:1
The prophet Obadiah shares the same name, highlighting the theme of servanthood and divine message.
The Human FamilyW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 2:1-55
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
Azariah, Azari'ah, Begat, Begot, Jehu, Obed
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 2:34-35

     5711   marriage, restrictions

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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