1 Chronicles 9:44

And Azel had six sons, and these were their names: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. These were the sons of Azel.

Study Bible

Azel had six sons
The mention of Azel having six sons highlights the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative. In Hebrew culture, having many sons was considered a blessing and a sign of God's favor. The number six, while not as symbolically significant as seven, still represents completeness in terms of family and legacy. Azel's lineage is preserved here, emphasizing the continuity of God's people and the fulfillment of His promises through generations.

and these were their names
Names in the Bible often carry significant meanings and reflect the character or destiny of the individuals. The act of naming is a divine prerogative, as seen in Genesis when God names the elements of creation. Here, the listing of names serves to honor the memory of Azel's descendants and to ensure their place in the sacred history of Israel.

Azrikam
The name Azrikam means "my help has risen" or "help has arisen" in Hebrew. This name reflects a reliance on divine assistance and the hope that God will rise to help His people. It is a reminder of the ever-present help of God in times of need, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures.

Bocheru
Bocheru's name is less common, and its meaning is not as clear, but it may be related to the Hebrew root "bachar," meaning "to choose" or "to select." This could imply a sense of being chosen or set apart, which aligns with the biblical theme of God's people being chosen for a purpose.

Ishmael
Ishmael means "God hears" in Hebrew. This name is significant as it reflects the biblical truth that God is attentive to the cries and prayers of His people. Ishmael, as a name, serves as a reminder of God's responsiveness and His willingness to listen to His children.

Sheariah
The name Sheariah can be translated as "valued by the Lord" or "the Lord is my kinsman." This name underscores the close relationship between God and His people, highlighting the value and worth that God places on each individual. It is a testament to the personal nature of God's covenant with His people.

Obadiah
Obadiah means "servant of the Lord" in Hebrew. This name reflects a life dedicated to serving God, a calling that is central to the identity of God's people. It emphasizes the importance of humility and service in the life of faith, aligning with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.

Hanan
The name Hanan means "gracious" or "merciful" in Hebrew. This name embodies the attributes of God that are most celebrated in the Bible—His grace and mercy. It serves as a reminder of the character of God and the grace that He extends to His people.

These were the sons of Azel
This concluding phrase reaffirms the familial connection and the importance of lineage. It serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's promises through generations. The preservation of these names in Scripture highlights the value of each individual in God's redemptive plan and the importance of family in the unfolding of biblical history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azel
A descendant of King Saul, Azel is noted for having six sons. His lineage is part of the genealogical records that emphasize the continuity of the Israelite tribes.

2. Azrikam
One of Azel's sons, his name means "help against the enemy" in Hebrew, reflecting a possible role or characteristic.

3. Bocheru
Another son of Azel, his name means "firstborn" or "youthful," indicating a position or trait within the family.

4. Ishmael
A common name in the Bible, meaning "God hears," suggesting a spiritual or prophetic significance.

5. Sheariah
His name means "valued by the Lord," indicating a divine favor or blessing.

6. Obadiah
Meaning "servant of the Lord," this name is shared with other notable biblical figures, suggesting a life dedicated to God's service.

7. Hanan
Meaning "gracious" or "merciful," this name reflects a characteristic of God’s nature.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Legacy
Our spiritual and familial legacies are significant. Just as Azel's lineage is recorded, our lives and actions contribute to the legacy we leave behind.

Names Reflecting Character
The meanings of names in the Bible often reflect God's purpose or character traits. Consider how our names or reputations reflect our identity in Christ.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogies remind us of God's faithfulness to His promises across generations. We can trust in His continued faithfulness in our lives and families.

The Role of Family in Faith
Families play a crucial role in nurturing faith. Like Azel's sons, we are called to be part of a spiritual family that supports and grows together in faith.

Understanding Our Spiritual Heritage
Recognizing our spiritual heritage helps us understand our place in God's plan. We are part of a larger account that God is writing through history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the genealogies in the Bible help us appreciate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can the meanings of biblical names inspire us to live out our faith more fully?

3. How can we ensure that we are leaving a positive spiritual legacy for future generations?

4. What role does family play in your spiritual journey, and how can you strengthen this aspect of your life?

5. How can recognizing our spiritual heritage encourage us in our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genealogies in the Bible
The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 9 are paralleled in other parts of the Bible, such as Genesis and Matthew, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in God's plan.

Names and Meanings
The significance of names in the Bible often reflects character or destiny, as seen in other scriptures where names are given by God or changed to reflect a new mission or identity (e.g., Abram to Abraham).

Legacy and Heritage
The importance of family lineage and the passing down of faith is echoed in scriptures like Deuteronomy 6, which emphasizes teaching the next generation.