1 Chronicles 1:46 – “When Husham died, Hadad son of Bedad, who defeated Midian in the country of Moab, succeeded him as king. His city was named Avith.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the transition of power in the kingdom of Edom after the death of Husham. Hadad, the son of Bedad, becomes the new king of Edom. Hadad is specifically noted for his military achievement in defeating the Midianites in Moab. This victory emphasizes his strength and ability as a ruler, as Midian was a significant power in the region at various times in biblical history. Hadad’s city is named Avith, indicating his base of power within Edom.
Hadad’s mention here provides insight into the political and military dynamics of Edom, showing that Edomite kings were not just figureheads but also military leaders who expanded their influence through conquest.
Historical Context
Edom, the nation descended from Esau, maintained a monarchy long before Israel had its first king. This verse continues the chronicle of Edomite rulers, and Hadad’s victory over the Midianites in Moab is a significant historical detail. The Midianites were a nomadic people who often came into conflict with Israel and other nations in the region. The Moabites, descendants of Lot, also played a recurring role in the history of Israel and its neighbors. The fact that Hadad defeated Midian in Moab indicates Edom’s involvement in the broader political struggles of the region, with Hadad establishing his power through military conquest.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse demonstrates that God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. While Edom was not part of the covenant community, its history, including the rise and fall of its kings, is still recorded in the Bible. This shows that God is concerned with the affairs of all people and nations, not just His chosen ones. Hadad’s military success is noted, but it is God who ultimately oversees the course of human history, including the victories and defeats of nations like Edom.
Another theological takeaway is the temporary nature of human power. While Hadad’s victory over Midian was significant, his reign, like all human reigns, was temporary. This points us to the reality that human achievements are fleeting, but God’s rule is eternal.
Literary Analysis
The chronicler’s inclusion of Hadad’s military victory and the specific naming of his city, Avith, adds depth to the genealogical record of Edom. The chronicler is not only concerned with listing names but also with highlighting important details, such as military achievements and the geographic significance of cities. This verse serves to flesh out the history of Edom, showing that its kings were not merely placeholders but active participants in the political and military affairs of the region.
The reference to Hadad’s victory also connects the Edomite monarchy to the broader narrative of conflict in the region, specifically with nations like Midian and Moab, who frequently intersect with Israel’s history.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 36:35 – This parallel verse also mentions Hadad’s rise to power and his victory over the Midianites in Moab.
- Judges 6:1-6 – The Midianites oppressed Israel during the time of Gideon, showing their significance as a powerful group in the region.
- Numbers 25:1-2 – The Moabites led Israel into sin, indicating that the region of Moab was often a place of conflict and tension for Israel and its neighbors.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, 1 Chronicles 1:46 serves as a reminder that human victories, while important, are always under the sovereign control of God. Hadad’s military success against Midian may have brought him power and prestige, but it was ultimately part of God’s plan for the region. This encourages believers to trust that God is at work in the world, even in situations that may seem unrelated to His direct purposes for His people.
This verse also reminds us of the temporary nature of human power and achievement. While Hadad was a successful king in his time, his reign eventually ended, like all human rule. Christians are called to place their trust not in human leaders or military victories but in God, whose kingdom is eternal.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s involvement in the affairs of all nations, not just Israel. By recording the history of Edom’s kings, including Hadad’s victory over Midian, God shows that He cares about the rise and fall of all nations. His love and concern extend beyond the covenant community to include all people. This verse highlights the fact that God is not distant from the struggles and achievements of nations but is actively involved in the course of human history.
God’s love is also demonstrated in His patience with the nations. Even though Edom was often hostile toward Israel, God still allowed them to rise and fall according to His purposes. His love is not limited to those who follow Him, but extends to all people, giving them opportunities to play a role in His larger plan for the world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Hadad’s temporary reign and military success point to the ultimate kingship of Jesus Christ. While Hadad’s rule was marked by human conflict and eventual death, Jesus’ reign is eternal and marked by peace and salvation. Hadad’s victory over Midian was a temporary triumph, but Jesus’ victory over sin and death is final and everlasting.
In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the King of Kings (Revelation 19:16), whose reign will never end. While human rulers like Hadad come and go, Jesus remains the eternal ruler, bringing true justice and peace to all nations. This verse reminds us that Jesus’ kingdom is far greater than any earthly kingdom, and His victory is complete.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse help you understand the temporary nature of human power and the eternal nature of God’s kingdom?
- What can we learn from the fact that Edom’s kings and their victories are recorded in the Bible, even though they were not part of the covenant community?
- How does this passage remind you of God’s involvement in the rise and fall of nations throughout history?
- In what ways does Jesus’ eternal reign bring you comfort in a world where human leadership is always changing?