1 Chronicles 1:48 – “When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the river succeeded him as king.”
Extended Explanation
This verse marks the continuation of the Edomite monarchy after the death of King Samlah. Following Samlah’s death, Shaul from Rehoboth on the river succeeded him as the king of Edom. This transition of power continues the pattern seen in previous verses, where one king dies, and another ruler takes his place. The mention of Shaul’s origin, “Rehoboth on the river,” gives us additional geographical context, although it does not give many specific details about Shaul’s reign itself.
Rehoboth is mentioned in other parts of Scripture, often referring to broad or open spaces, but here it is identified by its location near a river, distinguishing it from other places called Rehoboth. This city likely had strategic importance in Edom, as many ancient cities near rivers did due to trade and agriculture.
Historical Context
Edom, a nation descended from Esau, had established kings long before Israel had its first monarchy. The Edomite kings governed an important region to the south of Israel. Shaul’s rise to power continues the historical record of Edomite rulers, which gives us insight into the political structure of one of Israel’s neighboring nations. The reference to Rehoboth on the river suggests that Shaul’s hometown was a significant location within Edom, potentially influencing his rise to kingship.
The transition from Samlah to Shaul reflects the typical leadership changes of the time, where monarchs would succeed each other upon death, maintaining continuity in governance. Edom was often a rival of Israel, but the two nations also shared a common ancestry through Isaac’s sons, Jacob and Esau.
Theological Implications
This verse, like others in the genealogy of Edom’s kings, highlights the sovereignty of God over all nations and rulers. Even though Edom was not part of the covenant people of Israel, God still governed its affairs, ensuring that leadership transitions occurred according to His divine plan. The mention of Shaul’s succession is a reminder that God is involved in the rise and fall of every nation and leader.
Another important theological implication is the temporary nature of human authority. Just as Samlah’s reign came to an end, so too will Shaul’s. Human power is fleeting, and no king or leader can escape the certainty of death. In contrast, God’s reign is eternal, and His kingdom endures forever.
Literary Analysis
The chronicler’s list of Edomite kings is brief and factual, yet it serves an important purpose in providing a fuller picture of the nations surrounding Israel. By including Edom’s kings, the chronicler shows that Edom, like Israel, had a structured monarchy, even though the two nations often found themselves in conflict.
The reference to “Rehoboth on the river” adds a geographical dimension to the narrative, grounding Shaul’s reign in a specific place and emphasizing the importance of cities and regions in ancient governance. The transition from one king to another also highlights the natural cycle of human leadership, reinforcing the contrast between human rulers and God’s eternal kingship.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 36:37 – This verse parallels 1 Chronicles 1:48, recording the same succession of Shaul after the death of Samlah.
- Genesis 26:22 – The name Rehoboth appears when Isaac digs a well and names it Rehoboth, meaning “broad places,” signifying a place of peace and abundance.
- Psalm 75:7 – This verse reminds us that God is the one who judges, exalting one leader and bringing down another, highlighting His control over human affairs.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, 1 Chronicles 1:48 serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty over all human leadership and nations. While Shaul’s reign in Edom may seem distant from the central story of Israel, it is included in Scripture to show that God is involved in the history of all peoples, not just those who are part of the covenant community. This verse encourages believers to trust that God is overseeing the rise and fall of leaders and that no earthly power is outside His control.
The temporary nature of Samlah’s reign and Shaul’s succession also reminds Christians that human leadership is not permanent. We are called to place our trust in God, whose kingdom will never end, rather than in earthly leaders whose time is limited.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love for all nations and peoples, not just Israel. By recording the history of Edom’s kings, God shows that He cares about the leadership and governance of every nation. His love extends beyond the boundaries of the covenant community to include all of humanity. The inclusion of Edom’s kings in the Bible highlights God’s concern for the rise and fall of nations, showing that He is actively involved in every part of the world.
God’s love is also evident in the way He ensures stability and order in the nations. Even though Samlah’s reign came to an end, God provided a new king, Shaul, to govern Edom. This reflects God’s desire for peace and continuity, even among nations that do not worship Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Shaul’s reign as king of Edom points to the larger biblical theme of kingship and leadership. While Shaul’s reign was temporary, Jesus Christ’s kingship is eternal. Shaul, like all human rulers, experienced the limitations of human authority, but Jesus is the King of Kings whose reign will never end.
In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the perfect and eternal King who brings peace, justice, and righteousness to all nations. The transition from one king to another in Edom highlights the need for a lasting and perfect King, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Unlike human kings, who rise and fall, Jesus’ kingdom is everlasting, and His reign brings true hope and salvation to all people.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse help you understand God’s sovereignty over the rise and fall of human leaders?
- What can we learn from the inclusion of Edom’s kings in the Bible about God’s concern for all nations, not just Israel?
- How does this passage remind you of the temporary nature of human leadership and the eternal reign of God?
- In what ways does Jesus’ eternal kingship bring you hope in a world where leadership is always changing?