1 Chronicles 2:46

And Ephah, Caleb’s concubine, bare Haran, and Moza, and Gazez: and Haran begat Gazez.

1 Chronicles 2:46 (KJV)

Context

This verse appears in the genealogical record of 1 Chronicles 2, which traces the descendants of Judah, the son of Jacob. The chapter gives special attention to the family of Caleb, a prominent figure in Israel’s history. Caleb was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore Canaan, and he was one of only two who gave a positive report, showing trust in God’s promise (Numbers 13-14). His faithfulness allowed him to be one of the few from the older generation to enter the Promised Land (Joshua 14).

The verse names Ephah as Caleb’s concubine, a secondary wife. She bore him three sons: Haran, Moza, and Gazez. The verse then notes that Haran himself became the father of a son, whom he also named Gazez, apparently naming him after his brother. This detail highlights the practice of naming children after relatives within the family lineage.

Meaning

The immediate context shows that Caleb had other concubines. Verse 48 mentions Maakah, another concubine of Caleb, who bore him Sheber and Tirhanah. Verse 47 lists the sons of Jahdai, which includes another Ephah, a different individual from the Ephah in verse 46. This genealogical information underscores the importance of family heritage and the preservation of tribal lineage in Israel.

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles served as historical records, establishing tribal identities, inheritance rights, and the continuity of God’s covenant people. While this verse may seem like a simple list of names, it is part of the larger biblical narrative that demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His people through successive generations. The inclusion of concubines and their children in these records shows that all descendants were accounted for within the community of Israel.

Application

This verse reminds us that God values every person and every family line. Even those who held a lower social position, such as concubines and their children, were recorded and remembered in Scripture. This teaches us to honor the dignity of every individual, regardless of their status or background.

It also encourages us to consider our own place in God’s ongoing story. Just as these names were preserved for future generations, our lives and families are part of God’s work in the world. We can trust that God sees us and includes us in His purposes, even when our role seems small or unnoticed.

Reflection

How do we view the people around us? Do we recognize that each person has a place in God’s plan, just as Ephah and her sons were included in the record of Israel? This verse invites us to value every person and to trust that God is faithful through all generations.