1 Chronicles 7:34 – “The sons of Shomer: Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah and Aram.”
Extended Explanation
This verse lists the sons of Shomer, a descendant of the tribe of Asher, one of Jacob’s twelve sons. Shomer had four sons: Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah, and Aram. Although there are no specific stories attached to these individuals elsewhere in the Bible, their inclusion in this genealogical record indicates that their lives and families were important in the history of Israel. Genealogies like this one serve to preserve the family lines, demonstrating how God’s promises to multiply the descendants of Israel continued to be fulfilled generation after generation.
Historical Context
The tribe of Asher was situated in the northern part of Israel, near the coast. This region was known for its fertility and agricultural prosperity, making it an important part of Israel’s economy. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles were written after the Babylonian exile, a time when Israel was returning to their land and reestablishing their identity as God’s chosen people. The chronicler’s purpose in including these genealogies was to reconnect the people with their tribal heritage and remind them of God’s promises. Shomer and his sons are part of this larger narrative, representing the continuity of God’s faithfulness to the tribe of Asher.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse shows the importance of family and lineage in God’s plan. Even though the individuals mentioned here may not be famous or well-known, their inclusion demonstrates that every family plays a role in the unfolding of God’s covenant with Israel. This reflects a core biblical theme: God values every person and works through families and generations to accomplish His purposes. The continuation of family lines, such as Shomer’s, is a testament to God’s faithfulness to His people. It also reminds us that God’s plan often unfolds slowly over time, through the everyday lives of His people.
Literary Analysis
As part of the larger genealogical section in 1 Chronicles, this verse follows the familiar pattern of listing fathers and sons, emphasizing the passing down of family heritage. The inclusion of Shomer’s four sons—Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah, and Aram—adds to the broader record of Asher’s descendants, linking them to the ongoing narrative of Israel’s growth and development as a nation. These genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God’s commitment to His people. By listing these names, the chronicler provides continuity between past generations and the present-day Israelites who were rebuilding after exile.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 46:17 – This verse lists the early descendants of Asher, including those who traveled to Egypt with Jacob, laying the foundation for the later genealogies.
- Numbers 26:44-47 – A census of the tribe of Asher during Israel’s time in the wilderness demonstrates the tribe’s growth and importance.
- Deuteronomy 33:24-25 – Moses blesses the tribe of Asher, promising prosperity and strength, which is reflected in the continuing record of Asher’s descendants.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us that God values every person, even those whose names may not be widely known. It encourages us to see our own lives as part of God’s larger story, even if we feel like we’re playing a small role. Every family and every individual has a part in God’s unfolding plan. This passage also highlights the importance of passing down faith and values through the generations, as we are all part of a spiritual lineage. Just as Shomer’s sons are listed here, each of us is important in God’s eyes, and the legacy we leave through our faithfulness can have an impact on future generations.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by showing His care for every individual and family. By recording the names of Shomer’s sons—Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah, and Aram—God demonstrates that He values every person, regardless of their fame or prominence. God’s love is personal and extends to all of His people, ensuring that each family plays a role in His larger plan. This passage reminds us that God’s love is enduring and that He watches over His people across generations, fulfilling His promises to them and caring for their future.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ through the theme of family and generational faithfulness. Just as Shomer’s sons are part of the ongoing story of Israel, Jesus’ lineage also traces back through generations, showing that God’s redemptive plan has been unfolding through families for centuries. In the genealogies of Jesus recorded in Matthew and Luke, we see how God worked through ordinary people and families to bring about the Messiah. Jesus, as the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, is the ultimate expression of God’s faithfulness to all generations, and through Him, God’s covenant with His people is made complete.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to see the value of your own family and heritage in God’s larger story?
- In what ways can you ensure that your faith and values are passed down to future generations, just as the family lines of Asher were recorded here?
- How does this passage remind you of God’s faithfulness to His people across generations, and how does that influence your trust in Him today?
- How does understanding the importance of genealogies in the Bible deepen your appreciation for Jesus’ place in God’s redemptive plan and the role of families in His work?