1 Chronicles 9:4

Uthai son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri, the son of Bani, a descendant of Perez son of Judah.

Study Bible

Uthai
The name "Uthai" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "helpful" or "my iniquity." In the context of 1 Chronicles, Uthai represents a lineage of restoration and return, as the Chronicles often focus on the genealogies of those who returned from the Babylonian exile. This name reminds us of God's providence and the help He provides to His people, even in times of displacement and return.

son of Ammihud
"Ammihud" means "people of glory" or "my kinsman is glorious." This lineage emphasizes the glory and honor associated with being part of God's chosen people. It reflects the importance of family heritage and the transmission of faith and values through generations, a key theme in the Chronicles.

the son of Omri
"Omri" is a name that means "pupil of Jehovah" or "servant of Jehovah." This highlights the role of servitude and learning in the life of a believer. Omri's mention in the genealogy underscores the importance of being a disciple and servant of God, a calling for all believers.

the son of Imri
"Imri" means "eloquent" or "eloquence of Jehovah." This suggests a legacy of communication and proclamation of God's word. The inclusion of Imri in the genealogy serves as a reminder of the power of speech and the responsibility to declare God's truths.

the son of Bani
"Bani" means "built" or "builder." This name signifies the role of constructing and establishing, both physically and spiritually. In the context of the post-exilic community, it reflects the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the re-establishment of the Jewish community, symbolizing spiritual renewal and growth.

from the descendants of Perez
"Perez" means "breach" or "burst forth." Perez was a son of Judah, and his lineage is significant in the messianic line, as it leads to King David and ultimately to Jesus Christ. This highlights God's ability to bring forth His purposes even through unexpected or tumultuous circumstances.

son of Judah
"Judah" means "praise." As the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, Judah's name signifies the praise and worship due to God. The tribe of Judah holds a place of prominence in Israel's history, being the royal tribe from which King David and Jesus Christ descended. This lineage emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises and the centrality of worship in the life of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Uthai
A descendant of Perez, son of Judah, mentioned as part of the genealogical record of those who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

2. Ammihud
Uthai's father, part of the lineage that traces back to Judah.

3. Omri
Uthai's grandfather, not to be confused with the more well-known Omri, king of Israel.

4. Imri
Uthai's great-grandfather, part of the genealogical line.

5. Bani
Uthai's ancestor, further establishing the lineage from Perez.

6. Perez
The son of Judah, whose descendants played a significant role in the history of Israel.

7. Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, from which the royal line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Lineage
The genealogies in the Bible, such as the one in 1 Chronicles 9:4, remind us of God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through generations.

Significance of Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can inspire us to live faithfully, knowing we are part of a larger account that God is writing.

Role of the Remnant
The returnees to Jerusalem, including Uthai, represent the faithful remnant. This encourages us to remain faithful even in challenging times, trusting that God will restore and use us for His purposes.

God's Sovereignty in History
The inclusion of specific individuals in genealogies underscores God's sovereign hand in history, orchestrating events and people to accomplish His divine plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the genealogy of Perez in 1 Chronicles 9:4 connect to the broader account of God's promises to Israel?

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

3. How does the concept of a faithful remnant, as seen in the returnees to Jerusalem, apply to the church today?

4. What can we learn about God's character from His preservation of the lineage of Judah through challenging circumstances?

5. How does the genealogy in 1 Chronicles 9:4 enhance our understanding of the fulfillment of prophecy in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Perez's birth, which highlights God's sovereignty in using unexpected circumstances to fulfill His purposes.

Ruth 4
The genealogy of Perez is mentioned, connecting to the lineage of King David.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, where Perez is listed, showing the fulfillment of God's promises through the line of Judah.