1 Chronicles 4:25
Shallum his son, Mibsam his son, Mishma his son.
1 Chronicles 4:25 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles, a book that traces the lineages of Israel’s tribes and the line of David. The preceding verse, 1 Chronicles 4:24, lists the sons of Simeon, one of the twelve sons of Jacob: Nemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, and Shaul. Verse 25 continues that family line by naming Shallum, his son Mibsam, and his son Mishma, showing three generations of descendants from Shaul.
These genealogies were vital to the Israelites. They preserved tribal identity, connected the people to their ancestral heritage, and demonstrated the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs. For the post-exilic community, such records confirmed the continuity of God’s chosen people and their rightful place in His plan.
Meaning
The verse itself is a straightforward historical record, listing names without narrative or moral commentary. Yet its placement in Scripture is significant. It emphasizes the continuity of the Simeonite line, reminding readers that God preserved even the smaller tribes of Israel. The name Shallum, often understood as “retribution” or “recompense,” may hint at God’s justice, but the text primarily serves as a record of family heritage.
Genealogies like this one show that every individual and family mattered to God. They were not merely names on a page but part of the unfolding story of redemption. The Chronicler’s attention to such details underscores the faithfulness of God in keeping His covenant promises across generations.
Biblical connections
The genealogical record continues in 1 Chronicles 4:26, which lists Mishma’s sons: Hamuel, Zacchur, and Shimei. This ongoing lineage illustrates the growth of Simeon’s family. In contrast, verse 27 notes that while Shimei had many children, the Simeonite family did not multiply like the tribe of Judah. This comparison highlights the special prominence of Judah in the Chronicler’s account, pointing toward the Davidic line and ultimately to Christ.
Application
Though genealogies may seem distant, they teach that God values each person and family. Just as He preserved the Simeonites, He remains faithful to His people today. Believers can take comfort that their own lives are part of a larger divine narrative, and that God’s promises endure through every generation.
Reflection
This verse invites consideration of one’s place in God’s story. Physical ancestry may be unknown, but through faith believers are grafted into the spiritual lineage of God’s people. The faithfulness shown in preserving these names encourages trust that God sees, knows, and remembers each person.
