1 Chronicles 4:1

The sons of Judah; Pharez, Hezron, and Carmi, and Hur, and Shobal.

1 Chronicles 4:1 (KJV)

Context

This verse opens the genealogical record of the tribe of Judah, the fourth son of Jacob and Leah. The Chronicler wrote to preserve the family lines of Israel after the exile, showing that God’s people remained connected to His ancient promises. The list names Pharez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal, though these are not all direct sons of Judah. They represent a selective genealogy that traces the tribe’s leading branches.

Meaning

Pharez, also called Perez, was Judah’s son by Tamar, and his birth is recorded in Genesis 38. Hezron was Pharez’s son, making him Judah’s grandson. The line of Pharez became the most prominent, leading to King David and finally to Jesus Christ. Carmi is often linked with Chelubai, a son of Hezron, though the text gives little detail. Hur appears elsewhere as one who supported Moses during the battle with Amalek (Exodus 17:10-12). Shobal is listed without further explanation, yet his name shows the record’s completeness.

Biblical connections

The Chronicler connects these names to earlier records in 1 Chronicles 2:5, 2:9, and 2:50. Hur is later associated with Bethlehem (1 Chronicles 4:4), the town where Jesus was born. This link ties the genealogy directly to the Messiah’s birthplace. The line of Pharez is the channel through which God’s redemptive plan continued, as confirmed in the New Testament genealogies of Jesus.

Application

This brief list teaches that God works through real families and specific people. Even names with little recorded detail matter to Him. Believers can trust that their own lives, though seemingly small, fit into God’s larger purpose. The preservation of these names reminds us that identity, inheritance, and divine promise are secure in God’s faithful plan.

Reflection

Every name in this verse contributes to the story of salvation. The Chronicler’s care in recording these lines shows that God values each person. As we read, we see that the Messiah came through a real family with real struggles. This truth invites us to thank God for working through ordinary history to bring salvation to all.