1 Chronicles 4:1-23

CHAPTER 4:1-23 Additional Genealogies of Judah

1. The sons of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:1)

2. Jabez more honorable (1 Chronicles 4:9)

3. Further descendants of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:11)

4. Descendants of Shelah (1 Chronicles 4:21)

Hur and Shobal, mentioned in the first verse, were the sons of Caleb the son of Hezron. The families of the Zorathites sprang from Reaiah, the son of Shobal. Jabez is especially mentioned. Jabez means “He causes pain.” “And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that Thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that Thine hand might be with me, and that Thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.” The occasion when this prayer-vow was uttered is not given; probably it was made in connection with the expulsion of the Canaanites from the land and the acquisition of their territory. It was a simple prayer of childlike faith. For blessing, for increase, for companionship and for preservation Jabez cast himself upon the God of Israel, and He granted him his request. Blessing came to Jabez's soul; his coast was enlarged; the hand of the Lord was with him and kept him from evil. God never disappoints faith.

Then we have mentioned in this chapter the craftsmen; Geharashim (verse 14) means “valley of the craftsmen”; the workers in fine linen (verse 21); and those who were potters (verse 23).