1 Chronicles 8:21: “Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath were the sons of Shimei.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, three descendants of Benjamin are mentioned: Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath, who were sons of Shimei. Although the Bible does not provide additional information about their lives or roles in the history of Israel, their inclusion in the genealogy signifies their importance within the tribe of Benjamin. This genealogy serves to document the family lines, showing that each person, though not prominent in a historical sense, contributed to the continuity of Israel’s people.
Historical Context
1 Chronicles was written after the return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile. It was a time when the Israelites were trying to reconnect with their roots, tribal identities, and family heritage. Genealogies like this were significant for helping the people trace their ancestry and reaffirm their place within God’s covenant. The tribe of Benjamin, from which Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath descended, was important in Israel’s history, contributing leaders such as Saul, the first king of Israel. Benjamin also remained closely connected with the tribe of Judah after the kingdom of Israel was divided. This historical backdrop helps us understand why documenting genealogies was so crucial for the chronicler and the people of Israel.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse emphasizes that every person plays a part in God’s plan, whether or not their individual stories are well-known. Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath are mentioned as part of the ongoing legacy of Benjamin’s tribe, showing that God’s purposes are often fulfilled through ordinary people whose lives may not be recorded in detail but who still contribute to His unfolding plan. It also reminds us that God values everyone in His family, not just the most prominent figures. The broader message is that God sees and knows all His people and has a purpose for each life.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of a larger genealogical structure in 1 Chronicles 8, where names are listed in rapid succession. The chronicler’s use of genealogies serves to emphasize family lines, tribal connections, and continuity across generations. The verse does not elaborate on the accomplishments of Adaiah, Beraiah, or Shimrath, but their inclusion underscores the importance of maintaining the family record. These genealogical lists also serve a literary function by connecting the present generation of Israel with its past, reminding them of their heritage and the ongoing story of God’s people.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 35:22-26: This passage lists the sons of Jacob, including Benjamin, establishing the foundation for the genealogies of his descendants.
- Nehemiah 7:7: After the exile, genealogies were critical for reestablishing the identity of the tribes and connecting the people to their heritage.
- 1 Chronicles 9:1: Chronicles often refers back to genealogical records to trace Israel’s history, helping to preserve family lines and establish tribal identity.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse reminds us that even if our lives and contributions seem small or unnoticed by others, they are still meaningful to God. Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath were not famous figures, but their names are recorded in Scripture, showing that God values every person’s role in His plan. This truth encourages believers to recognize the significance of their own faithfulness, no matter how small or behind-the-scenes their work may seem. Each person has a place in God’s kingdom, and every life is important in His eyes.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse demonstrates God’s love for every individual in His family. The inclusion of names like Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath in the biblical record shows that God cares about each person, regardless of their level of recognition. God’s love is personal and inclusive, extending to all who are part of His people. He values every person and ensures that no one is overlooked or forgotten. His love for His children is seen in how He acknowledges and records even the most ordinary lives in His story.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ by pointing to the larger story of how God works through generations of people to fulfill His promises, ultimately leading to the coming of Jesus. Just as the genealogies in the Old Testament preserve the lineage of God’s people, they also point forward to Jesus, who is the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Israel. Jesus’ own genealogy, found in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, traces His lineage through both well-known and lesser-known figures, showing that God’s plan involves people from all walks of life. Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath were part of the ongoing story that ultimately leads to Christ, who came to fulfill God’s promise of salvation.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to see the significance of your life and contributions, even if they seem small or unnoticed?
- What can we learn from the genealogies in the Bible about the importance of family heritage and continuity in God’s plan?
- How does the record of these names help us understand God’s faithfulness across generations, and how does it point to the coming of Jesus Christ?