Who Was Bariah in the Bible?
Bariah is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in 1 Chronicles 3:22. He is identified as a member of the tribe of Judah, living during the period of the Divided Monarchy, a time when Israel was split into two kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south. Bariah is listed as the son of Shemaiah and the brother of Hattush, Igal, Neariah, and Shaphat. His mention in the Bible is brief and primarily genealogical, serving to establish his place within the tribe of Judah.
The Context of Bariah’s Mention
The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles are detailed accounts of the descendants of the tribes of Israel, particularly focusing on the lineage of Judah. This focus is significant because the tribe of Judah held a prominent role in Israel’s history. It was from this tribe that King David came, and it is also the lineage through which Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, would come. The mention of Bariah, therefore, is not just a minor detail but part of a broader narrative that highlights God’s unfolding plan of redemption through the line of Judah.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Every Individual in God’s Plan
Although Bariah does not have a detailed story or specific actions recorded in the Bible, his inclusion in the genealogical record serves as a reminder of the importance of every individual within God’s redemptive plan. In a society that often values notoriety and significant achievements, the Bible emphasizes the worth of every person, regardless of their prominence. Bariah’s mention teaches modern Christians that everyone has a role in God’s kingdom and that no one is insignificant in His eyes.
The Value of Genealogy and Heritage
The genealogical lists in the Bible, including the one that mentions Bariah, highlight the importance of heritage and continuity in God’s plan. These records were meticulously kept to preserve the history and identity of the tribes of Israel. For contemporary believers, this underscores the value of understanding our spiritual heritage. It encourages Christians to appreciate the historical foundations of their faith and to recognize their place in the ongoing story of God’s people.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness to His Promises
The genealogy that includes Bariah is a testament to God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite the challenges and upheavals during the Divided Monarchy, God’s covenant with Israel, particularly with the tribe of Judah, remained unbroken. The preservation of the lineage of Judah, leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, demonstrates God’s unwavering commitment to His promises. For modern believers, this is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and reliability. It assures us that God is steadfast in His promises and that He will fulfill His word, regardless of circumstances.
The Significance of Ordinary Lives
Bariah’s inclusion in the genealogical record, despite the lack of detailed information about his life, highlights God’s attention to all aspects of history, including those considered ordinary or mundane. This reflects a loving God who values each person and the contributions they make, however small they may seem. It reassures believers that their lives and actions, even if not widely recognized, are significant in God’s eyes and contribute to His greater plan.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Lineage of the Messiah
Bariah’s mention as part of the tribe of Judah connects directly to the lineage of Jesus Christ. The Bible traces the genealogy of Jesus through the tribe of Judah, emphasizing the fulfillment of God’s promises and prophecies regarding the Messiah. In Revelation 5:5, Jesus is referred to as the “Lion of the tribe of Judah,” highlighting His kingly lineage and His role as the Savior of humanity. The genealogical records, including those of seemingly minor figures like Bariah, point forward to the coming of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
The Universality of God’s Salvation Plan
Bariah’s place in the genealogy also underscores the inclusivity and universality of God’s salvation plan. The Bible includes a wide range of individuals in the lineage of Jesus, from kings to ordinary people, reflecting the reach of God’s grace. This teaches that God’s salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all, regardless of their background or status. It encourages believers to embrace the diversity within the body of Christ and to recognize the value of each person’s unique contribution to the faith community.
Conclusion
Bariah, though a minor figure in the Bible, plays a part in the broader narrative of God’s covenant with Israel and His redemptive plan for humanity. His mention in 1 Chronicles 3:22 serves as a reminder of the importance of every individual in God’s eyes and the significance of genealogy and heritage in the biblical narrative. Through Bariah’s inclusion, we see a reflection of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His attention to the details of each person’s life.
For modern Christians, Bariah’s story emphasizes the value of understanding our spiritual heritage and recognizing our place in God’s ongoing story. It encourages us to appreciate the contributions of all believers, regardless of their prominence, and to trust in God’s steadfast promises. Ultimately, Bariah’s place in the genealogy of Judah points forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s promises and the Savior of the world. This connection reinforces the central message of the Bible: that God is faithful, His promises are true, and His salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
References:
- 1 Chronicles 3:22 – The descendants of Shekaniah: Shemaiah his son, Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat—six in all.
- Revelation 5:5 – Then one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.’