1 Chronicles 7:32

And Heber begat Japhlet, and Shomer, and Hotham, and Shua their sister.

1 Chronicles 7:32 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the genealogy of Asher, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Heber is a grandson of Asher through Beriah, as shown in 1 Chronicles 7:30-31. The chronicler lists Heber’s children to keep the tribal heritage complete for future generations. Such records connect God’s people to their historical roots.

Meaning

Heber’s children are Japhlet, Shomer, Hotham, and their sister Shua. The text gives no further account of their lives or deeds. Their importance lies only in their place within the family record. This brevity is common in Chronicles, where the goal is to document lineage rather than personal history. Each name represents a real person known to God.

Biblical connections

The mention of Shua as a sister is notable in a patriarchal list. It parallels the naming of Serah, Asher’s daughter, in verse 30. Both show that women belonged to the covenant community and their place was acknowledged. A place called the coast of Japhleti appears in Joshua 16:3, possibly named after Japhlet, though this remains uncertain. The following verses continue the names of Heber’s descendants, showing the preservation of family lines.

Application

These names remind readers that God values every individual, even those unknown to history. Each person listed was real and known to God. The genealogies show that God works through ordinary families, not only through prominent figures. Believers can take comfort that their own lives matter to God, even when others do not notice them. God’s purposes are worked out through everyday people.

Reflection

The chronicler’s careful record affirms the reliability of Scripture and God’s faithfulness to His people through generations. Every branch of the family is preserved, pointing to the care God has for all who belong to Him.