What does 1 Chronicles 2:21 mean?

3 3 minutes read

And afterward Hezron went in to the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead, whom he married when he was threescore years old; and she bare him Segub. 1 Chronicles 2:21

Explanation

1 Chronicles 2:21 recounts an event within the genealogy of the tribe of Judah, where Hezron, a descendant of Judah, marries the daughter of Machir. Machir is identified as the father of Gilead, suggesting that this marriage is significant in the merging of two important lineages within the Israelite narrative. The verse specifies Hezron’s age at the time of marriage, sixty years old, indicating that such unions could take place at an advanced age. Additionally, the verse goes on to mention that Hezron’s wife bore him a son named Segub. The attention to detail in ages, lineage, and offspring highlights the importance of genealogies in establishing identity and inheritance rights within the ancient Israelite culture. While the verse is brief, it encapsulates the continuity of the family line and the significance of alliances through marriage.

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Historical Context

This verse is situated within the larger context of the genealogies outlined in the Book of 1 Chronicles. This book is believed to have been written after the Babylonian exile, in approximately the 5th century BCE. It serves as a record to reaffirm the identity and continuity of the Jewish people by tracing their roots back to Adam. Hezron’s marriage to the daughter of Machir is part of the Chronicler’s efforts to establish a connection between prominent families and tribes in Israel’s history. The emphasis on land and lineage reflects the concerns of a post-exilic community re-establishing itself in its ancestral homeland.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse, like many in the genealogies, underscores the providence of God in the history of Israel. Connections made through marriage are seen as divinely orchestrated and hold significance for the plans God has for His people. Moreover, the birth of children, especially sons, is often viewed as a blessing from God and a means to carry on the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, the verse emphasizes the importance of family, heritage, and legacy. Even at an advanced age, one’s contributions to family and community are valued, as evidenced by Hezron’s fatherhood of Segub. Additionally, the acknowledgment of familial connections across tribal lines teaches the value of unity and collaboration within a broader community.

Cross-References

Ruth 4:18-22: These verses provide another section of the genealogy that includes Hezron, giving context to his lineage and significance in the family tree leading to King David.
Genesis 50:23: Joseph saw Ephraim’s children of the third generation, similarly highlighting the importance of descendants and continuation of lineage.

Language Study

The Hebrew word for ‘married’ in this verse is “ba’al” (בעל), which can mean ‘to marry,’ ‘to rule over,’ ‘to possess,’ or ‘to own.’ This word implies a formal joining together and, in this context, a marital union. Additionally, “Machir” (מכיר) is a proper name meaning ‘sold’ or ‘-selling,’ and “Gilead” (גִּלעָד) may derive from a root word meaning ‘heap’ or ‘witness pile,’ suggesting the importance of this family as a significant testament or witness in the Israelite tradition.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparatively, many ancient cultures, including those surrounding Israel, placed a strong emphasis on genealogy and marriage alliances. For example, in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, marriages could serve diplomatic purposes, such as sealing treaties or creating political alignments. The narrative regarding Hezron and Machir’s daughter matches the importance of such alliances in other ancient cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct scientific discussion related to this specific verse, understanding the age at which people married and had children in ancient times could provide insights into the historical life expectancy and societal norms. Modern science has shown that, although less common, men can father children at an older age, which is consistent with Hezron having a son at sixty.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse focus on the genealogical and historical aspects. According to Matthew Henry’s Commentary, this marriage alliance may have been significant in strengthening ties between Judah and Manasseh, Machir’s tribe. Hezron’s age notes an exception to the ordinary course; typically, men fathered children at a much younger age in biblical times. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary also suggests that this interconnectedness of tribes through marriage reveals the complexity of Israel’s history and promotes a unity that the Chronicler may have intended to stress to his post-exilic audience.