1 Chronicles 3:9

These were all the sons of David, besides the sons by his concubines. And Tamar was their sister.

Study Bible

These were all the sons of David
This phrase introduces the lineage of King David, a central figure in the history of Israel and a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). The Hebrew root for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which not only refers to biological offspring but also to descendants and followers. David's sons played significant roles in the unfolding narrative of Israel's monarchy, and their lives reflect both the blessings and challenges of being part of a royal lineage. Historically, David's reign marked a golden era for Israel, establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center.

besides the sons by his concubines
The mention of "concubines" (Hebrew: "פִּילַגְשִׁים," pilagshim) highlights the complex family dynamics within David's household. Concubines were women who had a recognized status in the household but were not wives. This practice, while culturally accepted in ancient times, often led to familial strife and conflict, as seen in the lives of David's children. The inclusion of these sons in the genealogy underscores the comprehensive nature of the biblical record, acknowledging all of David's offspring and the potential for division and rivalry within the family.

And Tamar was their sister
Tamar, whose name in Hebrew (תָּמָר) means "palm tree," symbolizes beauty and grace. Her mention here is significant, as it acknowledges her place within the royal family. Tamar's story, particularly her tragic experience with her half-brother Amnon (2 Samuel 13), serves as a poignant reminder of the personal and moral challenges faced by David's family. Her inclusion in this genealogy highlights the Bible's commitment to truth, not shying away from the darker aspects of its characters' lives. Tamar's account also foreshadows the need for justice and redemption, themes central to the biblical narrative and ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, and a central figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ. His life is marked by both great faith and significant moral failures.

2. Sons of David
This passage refers to the sons born to David, highlighting the complexity of his family dynamics, including those born to his concubines.

3. Concubines
Women who had a recognized relationship with David but were not his wives. Their children were considered legitimate but often had different social standings.

4. Tamar
The daughter of David and sister to his sons, known for her tragic account involving her brother Amnon, which is detailed in 2 Samuel 13.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Family Dynamics
David's family, like many, was complex and fraught with challenges. This reminds us that God works through imperfect people and situations to fulfill His purposes.

The Consequences of Sin
David's relationships with multiple women led to family strife and tragedy, illustrating the long-term consequences of sin and disobedience to God's design for marriage.

God's Sovereignty in Imperfection
Despite the moral failures and dysfunction in David's family, God sovereignly worked through these circumstances to bring about His redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ.

The Importance of Righteous Leadership
David's failures as a father and leader had significant repercussions. This highlights the importance of godly leadership and the impact it has on families and nations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of David's sons by concubines in the biblical record reflect on the nature of biblical genealogies and God's grace?

2. In what ways can the account of Tamar and her brothers serve as a warning about the consequences of unchecked sin within a family?

3. How does the complexity of David's family life encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty despite our own family challenges?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's life about the importance of adhering to God's design for marriage and family?

5. How does the genealogy of Jesus, which includes David, demonstrate God's ability to bring redemption out of human imperfection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13
This chapter provides the background to Tamar's account, illustrating the dysfunction and tragedy within David's family.

1 Kings 11:3
This verse discusses Solomon, David's son, and his many wives and concubines, showing a continuation of complex family dynamics in David's lineage.

Matthew 1:1-17
The genealogy of Jesus, which includes David, showing the fulfillment of God's promises through David's line despite the family's imperfections.