1 Chronicles 2:39

Azariah was the father of Helez, Helez was the father of Elasah,

Study Bible

Azariah
The name "Azariah" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh has helped." This name is significant in the biblical context as it reflects a common theme of divine assistance and favor. Throughout the Old Testament, individuals named Azariah often play roles that underscore God's intervention and support in the lives of His people. The name itself serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God to His covenant people, Israel.

was the father of
This phrase is a translation of the Hebrew word "yalad," which means "to beget" or "to bring forth." In the genealogical context of 1 Chronicles, this phrase emphasizes the continuity of the family line and the importance of heritage in Israelite society. The act of fathering is not merely biological but also carries the weight of passing down spiritual and cultural legacies. It highlights the responsibility of each generation to uphold the faith and traditions of their ancestors.

Helez
The name "Helez" is less common in the biblical narrative, but it is believed to mean "strength" or "vigor." This name may reflect the qualities or aspirations of the family line, suggesting that Helez was seen as a strong or capable individual. In the broader scriptural context, names often convey character traits or divine purposes, and Helez's name might indicate the hope for strength and resilience in his descendants.

Helez was the father of
Repeating the phrase "was the father of" reinforces the genealogical structure of the passage. It serves as a reminder of the importance of lineage in the Chronicler's account, which seeks to establish the legitimacy and continuity of the tribes of Israel. This repetition underscores the interconnectedness of the generations and the unfolding of God's plan through familial lines.

Eleasah
The name "Eleasah" means "God has made" or "God has done." This name reflects a recognition of divine action and sovereignty. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Eleasah's name serves as a testament to God's ongoing work in the lives of His people. It suggests that the existence and continuation of the family line are attributed to God's providence and purpose. The name Eleasah encapsulates a sense of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's role in shaping history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azariah
A descendant of Judah, Azariah is part of the genealogical record that traces the lineage of the tribe of Judah. His name means "Yahweh has helped" in Hebrew, reflecting a common theme of divine assistance in the lives of the Israelites.

2. Helez
The son of Azariah, Helez is another link in the genealogical chain. His name means "strength" or "vigor," which may indicate the qualities valued in his family or tribe.

3. Eleasah
The son of Helez, Eleasah continues the lineage. His name means "God has made" or "God has done," suggesting a recognition of divine action in his life or family.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can provide a sense of identity and purpose. Just as the Israelites valued their genealogies, Christians can find strength in their spiritual lineage through faith in Christ.

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
The genealogies remind us that God is sovereign over history and our personal accounts. He orchestrates events and lineages for His purposes, as seen in the lineage leading to Christ.

Names Reflecting Faith
The meanings of names like Azariah, Helez, and Eleasah remind us of the importance of living lives that reflect God's help, strength, and action. Our lives should testify to God's work in us.

Continuity of God's Plan
The genealogies show the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. They remind us that God is faithful to His promises and works through generations.

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 knowing our spiritual heritage strengthen our faith and identity as Christians?

3. How do the meanings of the names Azariah, Helez, and Eleasah inspire us to reflect God's character in our own lives?

4. What can we learn about God's sovereignty and faithfulness from the genealogical records in the Bible?

5. How do the genealogies in 1 Chronicles connect to the New Testament genealogies of Jesus, and what significance does this have for our understanding of God's redemptive plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3
These genealogies also trace the lineage of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of heritage and fulfillment of prophecy in the New Testament.

1 Chronicles 4:1-23
This passage provides further genealogical details of the tribe of Judah, offering a broader context for understanding the significance of these family lines.

Genesis 49:8-12
Jacob's blessing over Judah highlights the future prominence of this tribe, which is reflected in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles.