1 Chronicles 4:3

And these were of the father of Etam; Jezreel, and Ishma, and Idbash: and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi:

1 Chronicles 4:3 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the genealogical records that open the Book of Chronicles. These lists preserve the family lines of Israel’s tribes, especially Judah, and they show how God kept His covenant people connected through generations. The chronicler wrote after the exile, when the people needed to know their roots and their place in God’s plan.

Etam appears here as a descendant of Judah. The Bible also names Etam as a town near Bethlehem and Tekoa, fortified by Rehoboam in 2 Chronicles 11:6. This link suggests that the family may have lived in that region, though the text does not say so directly.

Meaning

The verse lists three sons of Etam: Jezreel, Ishma, and Idbash. The name Jezreel means “God sows” or “God scatters.” Ishma suggests “hearing” or “obedient.” The meaning of Idbash is uncertain. These names carry hope, but the Bible gives no further details about these men.

The sister Hazelelponi is also named. This is striking because Old Testament genealogies usually list only sons. Her inclusion shows that women were valued and remembered within the family line. The exact meaning of her name is not clear; some scholars suggest “the one who looks out,” but this remains uncertain.

Biblical connections

The broader chapter includes the prayer of Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:10, showing that even inside long lists of names, spiritual lessons appear. The genealogies also confirm inheritance rights and tribal identity, which mattered greatly for the returning exiles.

Application

These names remind us that God knows every person, even those who appear only once in Scripture. No life is too small for His attention. The mention of Hazelelponi encourages us to honor the often-unrecorded contributions of women in God’s work.

Reflection

When we read lists of names, we can pause to thank God that He records His people individually. Our names may not be in the Bible, but they are written in His book of life. This verse invites us to trust that God values each family and each person in His redemptive story.