1 Chronicles 7:4
In addition to them, according to their genealogy, they had 36,000 troops for battle, for they had many wives and children.
In addition to them
This phrase indicates an expansion or addition to a previously mentioned group. In the context of 1 Chronicles 7, the chronicler is detailing the descendants of Issachar, one of the tribes of Israel. The Hebrew root here suggests a continuation or an increase, emphasizing the growth and prosperity of the tribe. This reflects God's blessing upon the tribe, as they were fruitful and multiplied, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant promise of numerous descendants.

according to their genealogy
Genealogy was crucial in ancient Israel, serving as a record of lineage and tribal affiliation. The Hebrew term for genealogy, "toledot," signifies generations or family histories. This phrase underscores the importance of maintaining accurate records, which were vital for inheritance rights, tribal identity, and fulfilling God's promises to the patriarchs. It also highlights the chronicler's intent to preserve Israel's history and God's faithfulness through generations.

they had 36,000 troops for battle
The mention of "36,000 troops" signifies the military strength and readiness of the tribe of Issachar. In ancient Israel, military capability was essential for protection and asserting dominance in the region. The number 36,000 reflects not only the tribe's numerical strength but also their organizational ability to mobilize for warfare. This military preparedness is a testament to God's provision and the tribe's strategic importance in the defense of Israel.

for they had many wives and children
This phrase highlights the social and familial structure of the time. Polygamy was a common practice in ancient Israel, often associated with wealth and status. Having "many wives and children" was seen as a sign of God's blessing and favor, as it ensured the continuation of the family line and increased the tribe's manpower. This abundance of family members contributed to the tribe's ability to field a large number of troops, reinforcing the idea of divine blessing and fulfillment of God's promises to multiply His people.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Tribe of Issachar
This verse is part of the genealogical record of the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe is known for its wisdom and understanding of the times.

2. Genealogy
The verse emphasizes the importance of genealogical records in Israel, which were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights.

3. Troops for Battle
The mention of 36,000 troops highlights the military strength and readiness of the tribe of Issachar, reflecting the importance of defense and warfare in ancient Israel.

4. Wives and Children
The reference to many wives and children indicates the social and familial structures of the time, where large families were common and often necessary for labor and defense.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Family and Community
The verse underscores the value of family and community in providing strength and support. In our lives, investing in family relationships and community can lead to greater resilience and readiness to face challenges.

Preparedness and Readiness
The mention of 36,000 troops for battle serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for spiritual and physical battles. Christians are called to put on the full armor of God and be ready to stand firm in faith.

Legacy and Heritage
The genealogical records highlight the significance of legacy and heritage. As believers, we are encouraged to consider the spiritual legacy we are leaving for future generations.

God's Provision and Blessing
The large number of descendants and troops reflects God's blessing and provision. Trusting in God's provision can lead to abundance and strength in our lives.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the genealogical record of Issachar in 1 Chronicles 7:4 reflect the importance of family and community in your own life?

2. In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually and physically for the battles you face, drawing inspiration from the readiness of Issachar's troops?

3. How does the concept of legacy and heritage in this passage challenge you to think about the spiritual legacy you are building?

4. What are some practical ways you can trust in God's provision and blessing, as seen in the growth and strength of the tribe of Issachar?

5. How can the understanding of Issachar's role and characteristics in other scriptures (e.g., Genesis 49, Deuteronomy 33) enhance your appreciation of their mention in 1 Chronicles 7:4?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 49:14-15
This passage describes Issachar as a strong donkey, lying down between the sheepfolds, which can be connected to the tribe's strength and readiness for battle as seen in 1 Chronicles 7:4.

Numbers 1:28-29
This passage provides an earlier census of the tribe of Issachar, showing their growth and military capability over time.

Deuteronomy 33:18-19
Moses' blessing on Issachar highlights their prosperity and role in the community, which aligns with their large families and military strength.
StatisticsW. H. Bennett, M. A.1 Chronicles 7:1-11
The Old Order ChangethW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 7:1-19
The Divine Gift of Physical StrengthR. Tuck 1 Chronicles 7:2-5
GenealogiesF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 7, 8
GenealogiesJ.R. Thomson 1 Chronicles 1-9
People
Abiah, Abiezer, Abijah, Aher, Ahi, Ahian, Ahishahar, Aiah, Alameth, Alemeth, Amal, Ammihud, Anathoth, Aniam, Ara, Arah, Aram, Asher, Ashriel, Ashvath, Asriel, Becher, Bedan, Beera, Bela, Benjamin, Bered, Beri, Beriah, Bezer, Bilhah, Bilhan, Bimhal, Birzavith, Chenaanah, Dan, David, Ehud, Eladah, Elead, Eliezer, Elioenai, Elishama, Ezbon, Ezer, Guni, Hammoleketh, Haniel, Hanniel, Harnepher, Heber, Helem, Hod, Hotham, Huppim, Huppites, Hushim, Hushites, Imna, Imnah, Imrah, Iri, Ishiah, Ishod, Ishuai, Issachar, Isshiah, Isuah, Ithran, Izrahiah, Jahmai, Jahziel, Japhlet, Jashub, Jediael, Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Jehubbah, Jephunneh, Jeremoth, Jeriel, Jerimoth, Jether, Jeush, Jezer, Jibsam, Jimna, Jimnah, Joash, Joel, Joseph, Joshua, Laadan, Likhi, Maacah, Maachah, Machir, Mahalah, Mahlah, Malchiel, Manasseh, Michael, Naphtali, Non, Nun, Obadiah, Omri, Pasach, Peresh, Pispah, Puah, Rakem, Rekem, Rephah, Rephaiah, Resheph, Rezia, Rohgah, Samuel, Serah, Shallum, Shamer, Shamma, Shaul, Shelesh, Shemer, Shemida, Shemidah, Shemuel, Sherah, Sheresh, Shillem, Shilshah, Shimrom, Shimron, Shomer, Shua, Shual, Shuppim, Shuppites, Shuthelah, Suah, Tahan, Tahath, Tarshish, Telah, Tharshish, Tola, Ulam, Ulla, Uzzi, Uzziel, Zabad, Zelophehad, Zemira, Zethan, Zophah
Places
Ayyah, Bethel, Beth-horon, Beth-shan, Dor, Gath, Gezer, Gilead, Heshbon, Megiddo, Naaran, Shechem, Taanach, Upper Beth-horon, Uzzen-sheerah
Topics
36000, Army, Bands, Battle, Beside, Families, Fathers, Fighting-men, Genealogy, Generations, Host, Households, Houses, Military, Multiplied, Ready, Recorded, Six, Soldiers, Sons, Thirty, Thirty-six, Thousand, Troops, Units, War, Wives
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 7:4

     5732   polygamy

1 Chronicles 7:1-12

     7266   tribes of Israel

1 Chronicles 7:4-11

     7230   genealogies

Library
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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