1 Chronicles 2:21 “Later, Hezron, when he was sixty years old, married the daughter of Makir, the father of Gilead. Hezron had married her when he was sixty years old, and she bore him Segub.”
Extended Explanation
This verse introduces an interesting detail about Hezron, a prominent figure in the tribe of Judah. It tells us that when Hezron was sixty years old, he married the daughter of Makir, a leader in Gilead, and they had a son named Segub. Hezron is part of the lineage of Judah, and this marriage ties the tribe of Judah to the people of Gilead, who are part of the tribe of Manasseh. The late marriage of Hezron and the birth of Segub at an advanced age show that God’s plans can unfold at unexpected times and through surprising circumstances.
Historical Context
Hezron was a descendant of Judah, and his family line played a significant role in the development of Israel as a nation. The mention of Makir, the father of Gilead, is significant because Makir was a leader in the tribe of Manasseh, one of Joseph’s sons. Gilead refers to a region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land and importance in Israel’s history. By marrying the daughter of Makir, Hezron’s family becomes connected to another prominent tribe, showing how God worked through various families and tribes to unite His people. This marriage highlights the inter-tribal connections that were important for Israel’s cohesion as a nation.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the theme of God’s sovereignty and timing. Hezron’s marriage at the age of sixty and the birth of Segub remind us that God’s plans are not limited by human expectations or timelines. God can bring about significant events in our lives at any stage, even when it seems late by human standards. This shows that God’s purposes are not constrained by our circumstances, whether it’s age, family ties, or any other factor. Additionally, the union between Hezron and the daughter of Makir points to how God’s people are brought together through relationships, often in ways that serve His larger plan.
Literary Analysis
As part of the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles, this verse serves to connect different tribes and highlight the importance of family ties in the unfolding story of Israel. The chronicler’s attention to Hezron’s late marriage and the birth of Segub emphasizes that even small details in family histories have significance in the broader narrative of God’s people. This genealogy doesn’t just list names but also provides details that reveal God’s providential care over families, tribes, and nations. The literary structure helps link the tribe of Judah to other tribes, showing the interconnectedness of Israel’s history.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 50:23: This verse mentions Makir, the son of Manasseh, showing that Hezron’s marriage connected him to an important family in the tribe of Manasseh.
- Numbers 26:29-30: This passage lists the descendants of Makir, establishing the connection between Gilead and Manasseh, which would have been significant in Israel’s tribal structure.
- Joshua 17:1-2: The land of Gilead is mentioned as part of the inheritance for the tribe of Manasseh, emphasizing its importance in the history of Israel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s plans for our lives are not limited by our age, background, or circumstances. Just as Hezron married and had a son at an older age, God can bring about new beginnings and significant events in our lives, even when we might think it’s too late. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing and to be open to the ways He might work in unexpected moments. This verse also shows the value of relationships and family ties in God’s plans, reminding us that He often works through the connections we have with others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving involvement in the lives of His people. Hezron’s late marriage and the birth of Segub show that God’s care and plans for us are ongoing, regardless of our age or stage in life. God’s love is patient and purposeful, working through each detail of our lives to bring about His plans. His love is also seen in how He unites His people through relationships, bringing together tribes and families for His greater purposes. This verse is a reminder that God’s love extends to every aspect of our lives, even in unexpected or late-stage events.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Hezron is part of the lineage of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. This connection to Jesus reminds us that God’s plan for redemption was being worked out through generations, even through events that may have seemed ordinary or unexpected, like Hezron’s late marriage. Just as God used Hezron’s family to continue the line of Judah, He used the descendants of Judah to bring forth the Messiah. Jesus’ birth fulfilled the promises made to Judah’s family, showing that God’s plan of salvation was carefully woven through the generations, leading to the coming of the Savior.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Hezron’s story encourage you to trust in God’s timing, even when it seems late or unexpected?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of family and relationships in God’s plan?
- How can you find hope in knowing that God’s purposes are not limited by age, circumstances, or human expectations?
- In what ways does Hezron’s connection to the lineage of Jesus deepen your understanding of God’s long-term plan for redemption?