1 Chronicles 8:11

And of Hushim he begat Abitub, and Elpaal.

1 Chronicles 8:11 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the genealogy of Benjamin in 1 Chronicles. The subject “he” is Shaharaim, a Benjamite who had sent away his wives Hushim and Baara (1 Chronicles 8:8). By Hushim, Shaharaim fathered Abitub and Elpaal. These names appear only here in Scripture, and no further details are given about their lives. The chronicler includes this brief notice to preserve the family line of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Meaning

The verse records a specific family link within the tribe of Benjamin. Hushim is named as a wife of Shaharaim, not as a son of Dan as in Genesis 46:23. The chronicler preserves this line to show the continuity of Benjamin’s descendants, a tribe that later produced King Saul (1 Chronicles 8:33). Even though Abitub and Elpaal are obscure, their inclusion shows that every person in God’s redemptive history is known and recorded by Him.

Biblical connections

Genealogies in Chronicles were vital for the post-exilic community. They confirmed tribal identity, inheritance rights, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs. These records reassured the people of their heritage and God’s faithfulness. Even obscure names like Abitub and Elpaal mattered because every person had a place in the covenant community. The genealogy ultimately leads to King Saul, showing how God worked through this tribe.

Application

This brief record reminds readers that God works through ordinary and even broken family situations. Shaharaim’s divorce is part of the biblical account, yet his children are still listed. No family line is too small or too troubled for God’s purposes. God can use humble beginnings and difficult circumstances to accomplish His will.

Reflection

The preservation of these names shows that God knows and values every individual. Not all believers are prominent, but each one is recorded in His plan. This encourages a reverent appreciation for the faithfulness of God across generations. It also reminds us that our lives, however hidden, are significant in God’s sight.