1 Chronicles 4:1

The descendants of Judah: Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.

Study Bible

The descendants of Judah
The Hebrew word for "descendants" is "בְּנֵי" (benei), which means "sons" or "children." This phrase introduces a genealogical record, emphasizing the importance of lineage in the Hebrew culture. Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, holds a significant place in biblical history as the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. The tribe of Judah is often associated with leadership and kingship, fulfilling Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:10 that the scepter will not depart from Judah.

Perez
Perez, whose name means "breach" or "bursting forth," was the son of Judah and Tamar. His birth is recorded in Genesis 38, where he unexpectedly became the firstborn, symbolizing a breakthrough or unexpected blessing. Perez's lineage is crucial as he is an ancestor of King David and Jesus, highlighting God's sovereignty in using unexpected circumstances to fulfill His divine purposes.

Hezron
Hezron, a grandson of Judah, is a significant figure in the genealogical line leading to David. His name means "enclosed" or "surrounded by a wall," suggesting protection and strength. Hezron's descendants settled in the region of Hebron, a city with deep historical and spiritual significance, being a place where Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob sojourned and where David was anointed king.

Carmi
Carmi, whose name means "vineyard" or "garden," is a less prominent figure in the biblical narrative. However, his inclusion in this genealogy underscores the comprehensive nature of God's record-keeping and the value of every individual in His plan. The name suggests fruitfulness and growth, qualities that are spiritually significant for the people of God.

Hur
Hur is a name that appears in various contexts in the Bible, but here it likely refers to a descendant of Judah. The name means "hole" or "liberty," and Hur is traditionally associated with leadership and support, as seen in Exodus 17:10-12, where Hur helps hold up Moses' hands during battle. This highlights the importance of support and collaboration in achieving God's purposes.

Shobal
Shobal, whose name means "flowing" or "path," is noted as a leader of a clan within the tribe of Judah. His name suggests movement and direction, reflecting the dynamic nature of God's guidance for His people. Shobal's descendants were known for their roles in the development of the city of Kiriath-jearim, a significant location in Israel's history, particularly in relation to the Ark of the Covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
The fourth son of Jacob and Leah, Judah is a significant figure in biblical history. His lineage is crucial as it leads to King David and ultimately to Jesus Christ, the Lion of the tribe of Judah.

2. Perez
The son of Judah and Tamar, Perez is an ancestor of King David. His name means "breach" or "burst forth," reflecting the circumstances of his birth.

3. Hezron
A descendant of Perez, Hezron is an important figure in the genealogy of the tribe of Judah. His lineage is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament.

4. Carmi
Although not much is detailed about Carmi in the Bible, he is listed among the descendants of Judah, indicating his role in the tribal lineage.

5. Hur
Traditionally believed to be a companion of Moses and Aaron, Hur is also noted as a descendant of Judah. He is associated with the tribe's leadership and craftsmanship.

6. Shobal
Known as a descendant of Judah, Shobal is linked to the family of Caleb and the city of Kiriath-jearim, indicating his influence in the region.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
Despite human failures and complex family dynamics, God's purposes prevail. The lineage of Judah, including Perez and Hezron, demonstrates God's ability to work through imperfect people to fulfill His divine plan.

The Importance of Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can inspire us to live faithfully. Just as the descendants of Judah played a role in God's plan, we too are part of a larger account that God is weaving.

Faithfulness in the Ordinary
Many of the names listed in genealogies are not accompanied by grand accounts, yet they were crucial in God's plan. This reminds us that our everyday faithfulness matters in God's kingdom.

Legacy of Leadership
Judah's descendants, including leaders like Hur, show the importance of godly leadership. We are called to lead with integrity and faithfulness in our spheres of influence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Judah, as seen in 1 Chronicles 4:1, reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can understanding our spiritual heritage impact our daily walk with God?

3. How does the account of Perez's birth in Genesis 38 illustrate God's ability to use imperfect situations for His purposes?

4. What lessons can we learn from the seemingly ordinary lives of those listed in biblical genealogies?

5. How can we apply the legacy of leadership seen in Judah's descendants to our own roles and responsibilities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
This chapter provides the background account of Judah and Tamar, leading to the birth of Perez and Zerah, highlighting God's sovereignty in using imperfect circumstances for His purposes.

Ruth 4
The genealogy at the end of Ruth connects Perez to King David, emphasizing the importance of this lineage in God's redemptive plan.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus Christ traces His lineage through Judah, Perez, and Hezron, underscoring the fulfillment of God's promises through this line.