1 Chronicles 7:37

Bezer, and Hod, and Shamma, and Shilshah, and Ithran, and Beera. 1 Chronicles 7:37 (KJV)

“For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”

The book of Chronicles is a historical record that focuses on the genealogies of Israel and the establishment of the Davidic dynasty. In 1 Chronicles 7 the descendants of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, are listed.

The verse reads, “Bezer, and Hod, and Shamma, and Shilshah, and Ithran, and Beera.” This passage records six family heads belonging to the tribe of Manasseh, a brother of Ephraim, rather than sons of Ephraim. These names represent members of Manasseh’s lineage and preserve the distinct identity of that branch of the tribe.

The genealogical listings in Chronicles provide detailed records of Israelite families. Such records were important for establishing inheritance rights, confirming priestly lineage, and validating the Davidic and Messianic lines. Ephraim, one of the two sons of Joseph, received a blessing from Jacob and became a prominent tribe among the twelve. The descendants of Ephraim played a significant role in Israel’s history, and the mention of Manasseh’s family heads underscores the broader tribal framework.

The preservation of tribal identity in these lists highlights the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs. By naming each family head, the chronicler affirms the continuity of the covenantal blessings promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moreover, the allocation of territories to each tribe, as reflected in the genealogies, emphasizes the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring the Israelites into the land of Canaan. The verse therefore serves not only as a record of names but also as a testament to God’s faithfulness in maintaining tribal boundaries, inheritance, and the prophetic hope of the promised land.