1 Chronicles 9:35
And in Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon, Iehiel, whose wiues name was Maacha: 1 Chronicles 9:35 (KJV)
The verse records that Jehiel, identified as the father of Gibeon, lived in the city with his wife Maachah. 1 Chronicles offers a detailed genealogical account of Israel, especially the descendants of the twelve tribes, and chapter 9 concentrates on the families who returned from the Babylonian exile. Gibeon, situated in the territory of Benjamin, was a prominent city noted for its association with the tabernacle and for the wisdom of its inhabitants in making a covenant with Joshua and the Israelites (see Joshua 9). By mentioning Jehiel and his wife, the text links the local history of Gibeon to the broader narrative of Israel’s restoration during the monarchy period, illustrating the continuity of the community.
Jehiel’s designation as the “father of Gibeon” suggests he was a respected and influential figure within the city, while Maachah’s inclusion provides a personal dimension to the genealogical record. Although the verse supplies no further details about their lives, their names serve as a historical anchor, reminding readers of the people who inhabited Gibeon at that time. This brief notice contributes to our understanding of the region’s population and underscores the importance of preserving family lines in the post‑exilic community.
The mention of Gibeon’s connection to the tabernacle and its earlier covenant with Joshua enriches the picture of a city that played a significant role both before and after the exile. Consequently, the reference to Jehiel and Maachah not only records a family name but also highlights the enduring presence of faithful families in the land, offering a glimpse into the genealogical and social fabric that undergirded Israel’s return from exile.
