1 Chronicles 4:5
And Ashur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.
1 Chronicles 4:5 (KJV)
Context
The book of 1 Chronicles opens with extensive genealogies that trace the tribes of Israel. Chapter 4 centers on the descendants of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Verse 5 names Ashur as the father of Tekoa and records that he had two wives, Helah and Naarah. This brief note sits within a larger list of names, yet it preserves a specific family line for the post-exilic community.
Meaning
Ashur is called the father of Tekoa, meaning he was likely the founder or leading ancestor of the town of Tekoa in Judah, about eleven miles south of Jerusalem. The names of his wives, Helah and Naarah, are recorded without further comment, showing that even seemingly minor individuals are remembered by God. The mention of two wives reflects the ancient practice of polygamy, which was not uncommon in that era, though it deviated from God’s original design for marriage as stated in Genesis 2:24. The Bible often records such practices as historical facts without adding moral commentary.
Biblical connections
Tekoa appears elsewhere in the Old Testament. In 2 Samuel 14:2, a wise woman from Tekoa spoke to King David on behalf of her banished son, a story that illustrates the town’s ongoing presence in Israel’s history. Later, the prophet Amos identified himself as a herdsman and dresser of sycamore figs from Tekoa (Amos 1:1). These connections show that this genealogical detail is not isolated; it links to people and events that mattered in later generations.
Application
This verse is part of a broader genealogical record that underscores the importance of family lineage and heritage in Israel’s history. It reminds us that God works through imperfect human circumstances to accomplish His purposes. The genealogical context shows that God’s redemptive plan unfolds through real people in real history, and that He is faithful to His covenant promises across generations. This passage encourages believers to see the value of their own family histories and to trust that God is at work in the details of their lives.
Reflection
Even a brief genealogical note like this one contributes to the biblical story, showing that every person and family line matters to God. The mention of Tekoa, a town later associated with the prophet Amos, highlights the significance of this detail. This verse also prompts reflection on the sanctity of marriage, as God’s original design is one man and one woman, even though the Bible records deviations from this ideal.
