1 Chronicles 9:7 – “From the Benjamites: Sallu son of Meshullam, the son of Hodaviah, the son of Hassenuah.”

Extended Explanation

This verse highlights a specific individual, Sallu, from the tribe of Benjamin, who returned to Jerusalem after the exile. His lineage is traced back through Meshullam, Hodaviah, and Hassenuah, showing the importance of family heritage among the returning exiles. The tribe of Benjamin, though smaller than Judah, was still crucial to the restoration of Israel. The verse reminds us that the restoration of God’s people involved not just the major tribes like Judah but also other smaller tribes like Benjamin, demonstrating that every part of Israel played a role in the renewal of the community after exile.

Historical Context

The Babylonian exile was a significant event in Israel’s history, resulting in the destruction of Jerusalem and the scattering of the Israelites. After the exile, many were allowed to return to their homeland by the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. This return marked a new beginning for the people of Israel as they sought to rebuild their lives, their city, and their worship. The tribe of Benjamin had been part of the southern kingdom, along with Judah, and their inclusion in the return is a sign of the renewed unity among the tribes. Benjamin, although smaller in size, was important historically, as the first king of Israel, Saul, came from this tribe.

Theological Implications

This verse points to God’s faithfulness in restoring His people. The fact that individuals from the tribe of Benjamin were part of the return shows that God’s plan included all of Israel, not just the larger or more prominent tribes. God does not forget any part of His people, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem. This restoration of the people of Benjamin to their place in Jerusalem reflects God’s inclusive nature in His covenant. Each tribe, each family, and each individual has a role in God’s plan, and He ensures that none are left behind when it comes to His promises of restoration.

Literary Analysis

In the broader context of 1 Chronicles 9, this verse is part of the genealogical records that list the people who returned from exile to settle in Jerusalem. The Chronicles often use genealogies to show continuity between Israel’s past and present. The specific mention of family lines, such as that of Sallu, demonstrates that the return to Jerusalem wasn’t just a national event but a deeply personal one for the families involved. The use of names and lineages serves to root the story of Israel’s restoration in the lives of real people with real histories, emphasizing the personal and communal nature of God’s work.

Biblical Cross-References

There are several cross-references that shed light on the significance of this verse. Nehemiah 11:7-9 also lists the descendants of Benjamin who returned to Jerusalem, including Sallu. This demonstrates the consistency of the biblical record and shows that multiple biblical writers acknowledged the role of Benjamin in the return. Another relevant reference is Genesis 35:18, which records the birth of Benjamin. Though Benjamin was the youngest of Jacob’s sons, his descendants played a significant role in Israel’s history, including producing King Saul.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse reminds us that no one is insignificant in God’s plan. Just as Sallu, a relatively unknown figure from a smaller tribe, was part of the return to Jerusalem, each of us has a place in God’s family and His purpose. This can be encouraging for those who may feel overlooked or forgotten, knowing that God sees and includes everyone in His work. It also teaches that restoration, whether personal or communal, often involves everyone playing their part, no matter how big or small their role might seem.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in that He restores all His people, not just the prominent or well-known ones. His love is inclusive, encompassing even the smaller tribes and individuals. The return of the tribe of Benjamin shows that God’s love reaches everyone, from the largest to the smallest, and that His promises are for all who belong to Him. The detailed genealogies reflect God’s personal care for each family and individual, demonstrating that His love is not abstract but deeply personal and relational.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The tribe of Benjamin is notable in the New Testament as the tribe of the Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:5). Paul, like Sallu, came from Benjamin and was a key figure in the spread of the gospel. This connection shows that God’s work through the tribe of Benjamin continued well beyond the return from exile. Moreover, the return of Sallu and his family to Jerusalem is a foreshadowing of the greater restoration that Jesus brings. Jesus, through His death and resurrection, restores not just a city or a people but all who believe in Him to a right relationship with God. He includes everyone, no matter their background or past, in His plan of salvation.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Sallu’s inclusion in the return to Jerusalem encourage you about your own role in God’s plan?
2. What does this verse teach us about the importance of each individual in God’s work, even those from smaller or less prominent backgrounds?
3. In what ways have you experienced God’s restoration in your life, especially in times when you may have felt overlooked or insignificant?
4. How does the inclusion of the tribe of Benjamin in God’s plan for restoration foreshadow the way Jesus includes all people in His work of salvation?