What does 1 Chronicles 2:21 mean?
"¶ 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
The Bible verse 1 Chronicles 2:21 in the King James Version reads: "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."
This verse is part of a lengthy genealogy found in the book of 1 Chronicles, which is a historical record of the lineage of the tribes of Israel. It may seem like a simple listing of names and family relationships, but upon closer inspection, there are deeper themes and meanings to be gleaned from this passage.
First, let's examine the context in which this verse is found. The book of 1 Chronicles is often considered to be a continuation of the book of 2 Samuel, and it serves as a genealogical record of the Israelite tribes from the time of Adam to the exile in Babylon. It is important to note that the genealogies of the Old Testament were highly significant to the ancient Israelites, as they established a person's heritage, lineage, and tribal connections. This was essential for purposes of inheritance, land rights, and tribal identity.
Now, let's delve into the specific verse, which discusses Hezron, the son of Perez, and his marriage to the daughter of Machir, the father of Gilead. The mention of Hezron marrying at the age of threescore (60) years old is noteworthy. In the ancient Near East, it was not uncommon for men to marry at an advanced age, and this detail may serve to highlight Hezron's perseverance and patience in pursuing a marriage partner. The fact that Hezron's wife bore him a son named Segub further emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage within the Israelite culture.
Symbolically, this verse can be viewed as a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to bring forth new life and generations, even in the later years of a person's life. It also underscores the significance of family and lineage in the biblical narrative, as well as the fulfillment of God's promises through the continuation of the family line.
In a broader sense, this verse can be seen as part of the larger theme of God's sovereignty and providence throughout history. The genealogies in the Bible serve to establish a sense of continuity and purpose, as they connect the past with the present and future. They also point to the fulfillment of God's plans and promises through the descendants of the patriarchs and leaders of Israel.
Furthermore, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the human experience, highlighting the universal aspects of marriage, family, and the passage of time. It speaks to the enduring nature of human relationships and the resilience of the family unit, even in the face of challenges and the passing of generations.
In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 2:21 may at first glance appear to be a simple record of a marriage and the birth of a son, but upon deeper examination, it reveals profound themes of faith, continuity, and God's providential care for His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of family, lineage, and the overarching plan of God throughout history. As with all passages of Scripture, it invites us to explore its depths and glean wisdom and insight for our own lives.
Have questions about 1 Chronicles 2:21?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
1 Chronicles 2:21 Artwork
1 Chronicles 2:21 - "¶ 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."
"¶ 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
1 Chronicles 2:1 - "These are the sons of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun,"
"These are the sons of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun," - 1 Chronicles 2:1
2 Chronicles 21:1 - "Now Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And Jehoram his son reigned in his stead."
2 Chronicles 20:21
2 Chronicles 21:9
1 Chronicles 1:21 - "Hadoram also, and Uzal, and Diklah,"
1 Chronicles 21:2 - "And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beer-sheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it."
2 Chronicles 2:1 - "And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the LORD, and an house for his kingdom."
1 Chronicles 8:21 - "And Adaiah, and Beraiah, and Shimrath, the sons of Shimhi;"
1 Chronicles 21:1 - "And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel."
1 Chronicles 24:21 - "Concerning Rehabiah: of the sons of Rehabiah, the first was Isshiah."
2 Chronicles 4:21 - "And the flowers, and the lamps, and the tongs, made he of gold, and that perfect gold;"
1 Chronicles 9:21 - "And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was porter of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation."
2 Chronicles 21:18 - "¶ And after all this the LORD smote him in his bowels with an incurable disease."
1 Chronicles 21:7 - "And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel."
1 Chronicles 21:9 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying,"
"Hadoram also, and Uzal, and Diklah," - 1 Chronicles 1:21
1 Chronicles 21:21 - "And as David came to Ornan, Ornan looked and saw David, and went out of the threshingfloor, and bowed himself to David with his face to the ground."
1 Chronicles 23:21 - "¶ The sons of Merari; Mahli, and Mushi. The sons of Mahli; Eleazar, and Kish."
2 Kings 15:21 - "¶ And the rest of the acts of Menahem, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?"
2 Chronicles 24:21 - "And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of the LORD."
1 Chronicles 25:21 - "The fourteenth to Mattithiah, he, his sons, and his brethren, were twelve:"
2 Chronicles 23:21 - "And all the people of the land rejoiced: and the city was quiet, after that they had slain Athaliah with the sword."
2 Chronicles 21:8 - "¶ In his days the Edomites revolted from under the dominion of Judah, and made themselves a king."
2 Chronicles 21:2 - "And he had brethren the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, and Jehiel, and Zechariah, and Azariah, and Michael, and Shephatiah: all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel."
1 Chronicles 2:48 - "Maachah, Caleb's concubine, bare Sheber, and Tirhanah."
1 Chronicles 21:19 - "And David went up at the saying of Gad, which he spake in the name of the LORD."
2 Chronicles 21:16 - "¶ Moreover the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines, and of the Arabians, that were near the Ethiopians:"