1 Chronicles 2:14

Nethaneel the fourth, Raddai the fifth,

1 Chronicles 2:14 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a genealogy in 1 Chronicles 2 that traces the family line from Judah through Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salma, Boaz, Obed, and Jesse (1 Chronicles 2:3-12). The Chronicler records these names to establish the royal ancestry leading to King David. The list of Jesse’s sons appears in 1 Chronicles 2:13-15, where Nethaneel is the fourth and Raddai is the fifth.

Meaning

The names Nethaneel and Raddai appear only here in the Old Testament. Nethaneel means “given of God” or “gift of God,” while Raddai may mean “lord” or “ruler,” though its exact meaning is uncertain. Scripture gives no further details about their lives, yet their names are preserved in the sacred record. This preservation shows that God values each person, even those who remain in the background.

Biblical connections

The Chronicler lists seven sons of Jesse, but 1 Samuel 16:10-11 and 17:12 mention eight. This difference likely means one son is omitted, possibly because he was born to a different mother or died without a notable legacy. The genealogy in 1 Chronicles 2 ultimately points to David, and through him to Jesus Christ, as Matthew 1:5-6 shows. This connection reminds readers that God’s plan moved through ordinary families to bring the promised Savior. The line from Judah to David was preserved through many generations, showing God’s faithful care.

Application

This verse teaches that every person matters in God’s purposes, even those whose stories are not told. Nethaneel and Raddai had no recorded deeds, yet God saw fit to include their names in Scripture. Their inclusion affirms the value of every individual in the divine plan. Believers can take comfort that God knows each person by name and has a purpose for each one, even when that purpose is not visible to others. God’s attention to these two brothers encourages us to serve faithfully without needing recognition.

Reflection

The genealogical record shows God’s sovereignty in preserving the line to David. It also demonstrates the Chronicler’s careful record-keeping and the historical reliability of biblical genealogies. This verse encourages readers to trust that God is at work through ordinary lives, weaving them into His redemptive story. Even a brief mention in a genealogy carries lasting significance. When we feel overlooked, we can remember that God sees us and has placed us exactly where He wants us.