1 Chronicles 2:45

And the son of Shammai was Maon: and Maon was the father of Beth–zur.

1 Chronicles 2:45 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles, tracing the descendants of Judah, son of Jacob. The list follows the line of Caleb through Hezron, showing how families and towns were connected within the tribe. Such records helped God’s people know their heritage and the land allotted to them.

Meaning

Shammai appears only here in this family line. His son Maon, whose name means “habitation” or “dwelling,” became the father of Beth-zur, meaning “house of rock” or “place of flint.” These names point to real places in Judah, as Joshua 15:55 and Joshua 15:58 list both Maon and Beth-zur as towns in the hill country. The verse likely shows that Maon was the founder of the family that lived in Beth-zur.

Biblical connections

The genealogy shows God’s care in preserving the tribe of Judah, from which the Messiah came (Matthew 1:1-16; Hebrews 7:14). Maon also appears in the story of David hiding in the wilderness of Maon (1 Samuel 23:24-25), and Beth-zur later became a fortified city during the Maccabean period. These connections remind us that biblical history is rooted in actual geography and people, and that God’s plan unfolds through real events.

Application

This brief record teaches that God works through ordinary family lines and everyday details. Every name in Scripture has purpose, even when we know little about the person. We can trust that God is faithful in the small, unrecorded parts of our lives, just as He guided the families listed here. He sees and values each life, no matter how hidden.

Reflection

Consider how your own family history fits into God’s larger plan. Though you may not be famous, your life and faithfulness matter to Him. The God who kept this lineage for centuries also watches over you today.