1 Chronicles 8:12: “The sons of Elpaal: Eber, Misham, Shemed (who built Ono and Lod with its surrounding villages).”
Extended Explanation
This verse lists the sons of Elpaal, who were part of the tribe of Benjamin. The sons are named Eber, Misham, and Shemed. Interestingly, Shemed is given special recognition for building the cities of Ono and Lod along with their surrounding villages. This brief detail shows that Shemed was instrumental in expanding or establishing these cities, which would have been important locations in ancient Israel. The verse highlights both family heritage and the tangible contributions made by individuals within the tribe.
Historical Context
The cities mentioned, Ono and Lod, were located in the territory of Benjamin and were significant places in Israel’s history. Lod, also known as Lydda, is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible and continued to be important during the time of the New Testament. By the time this genealogical record was written, the Israelites had returned from exile in Babylon, and these genealogies were important for helping them reclaim their identity and connection to the land. The chronicler’s mention of city-building by the descendants of Benjamin reflects their role in the establishment and development of their homeland.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse reminds us that God’s people are not only spiritual beings but also engaged in the practical and physical aspects of life, such as building and creating communities. Shemed’s role in establishing cities reflects the responsibility given to humanity to build and cultivate the earth, which echoes the command in Genesis for humans to “fill the earth and subdue it.” It also shows that God works through people to accomplish His purposes, whether through spiritual leadership or practical contributions like building cities. The people of God play active roles in both the spiritual and physical development of the world.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of the larger genealogical structure of 1 Chronicles 8. While many of the verses in this chapter simply list names, this verse stands out because it includes additional information about Shemed’s role in building cities. The mention of specific actions within a genealogy emphasizes the importance of these contributions to Israel’s history. The chronicler is not only concerned with preserving names but also with recognizing the lasting impact individuals had on the land and the community.
Biblical Cross-References
- Nehemiah 7:37: Lod is mentioned as a place where exiles returned after the Babylonian captivity, highlighting its continued significance in Israel’s history.
- Acts 9:32-35: The city of Lydda (another name for Lod) is where Peter healed a paralytic, showing that these cities remained important into the New Testament period.
- Genesis 1:28: God’s command to humanity to fill and subdue the earth can be seen as reflected in the work of building and establishing cities like Ono and Lod.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse shows that God values both the spiritual and practical aspects of our lives. Building cities, creating communities, and contributing to society are important tasks that reflect God’s design for humanity. Christians are called to be active in their communities, making positive contributions in whatever field they are placed. Whether through leadership, work, or everyday activities, believers are called to participate in the work of building up their surroundings, just as Shemed did by establishing cities for his people.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by showing how He equips and uses His people to build and sustain communities. God’s love is not only shown in spiritual ways but also in the physical and practical blessings He provides through His people. The ability to build and establish places like Ono and Lod is a reflection of God’s care for His people, ensuring they have places to live and thrive. It shows that God’s love encompasses every aspect of life, including the daily work of building homes and cities.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
While this verse deals with city-building, it points forward to the greater reality of Jesus Christ, who is described as the cornerstone and foundation of God’s spiritual house (Ephesians 2:19-22). Just as Shemed built cities in Israel’s physical land, Jesus is the one who builds God’s kingdom, not through bricks and mortar, but by bringing people into relationship with God. In Christ, we are not just building physical communities but are being built into a spiritual house where God dwells (1 Peter 2:4-5). The physical building of cities in the Old Testament foreshadows the spiritual building that takes place through Jesus in the New Testament.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage us to see the value of both spiritual and practical work in our lives?
- What can we learn from Shemed’s role in building cities about our responsibility to contribute to the development of our communities?
- How does the idea of building cities in the Old Testament point to the greater work of Jesus in building God’s spiritual kingdom today?