The Descendants of David
(2 Samuel 3:1–5)
1These were the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron:
The firstborn was Amnon by Ahinoam of Jezreel;
the second was Daniel by Abigail of Carmel;
2the third was Absalom the son of Maacah daughter of King Talmai of Geshur;
the fourth was Adonijah the son of Haggith;
3the fifth was Shephatiah by Abital;
and the sixth was Ithream by his wife Eglah.
4These six sons were born to David in Hebron, where he reigned seven years and six months.
And David reigned in Jerusalem thirty-three years,5and these sons were born to him in Jerusalem:
Shimea,a Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were born to him by Bathshebab daughter of Ammiel.c
6David’s other sons were Ibhar,d Elishua,e Eliphelet,7Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia,8Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet—nine in all.
9These were all the sons of David, besides the sons by his concubines. And Tamar was their sister.
The Descendants of Solomon
10Solomon’s son was Rehoboam:
Abijah was his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son,11Joramf his son, Ahaziah his son, Joash his son,12Amaziah his son, Azariahg his son, Jotham his son,13Ahaz his son, Hezekiah his son, Manasseh his son,14Amon his son, and Josiah his son.
15The sons of Josiah:
Johanan was the firstborn, Jehoiakim the second, Zedekiah the third, and Shallumh the fourth.
16The successors of Jehoiakim:
Jeconiahi his son, and Zedekiah.
The Royal Line After the Exile
17The descendants of Jeconiah the captive:
Shealtiel his son,18Malchiram, Pedaiah, Shenazzar, Jekamiah, Hoshama, and Nedabiah.
19The sons of Pedaiah:
Zerubbabel and Shimei.
The children of Zerubbabel:
Meshullam and Hananiah, their sister Shelomith,20and five others: Hashubah, Ohel, Berechiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-hesed.
21The descendants of Hananiah:
Pelatiah, Jeshaiah, and the sons of Rephaiah, of Arnan, of Obadiah, and of Shecaniah.
22The six descendants of Shecaniah were Shemaiah and his sons:
Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat.
23The sons of Neariah:
Elioenai, Hizkiah, and Azrikam—three in all.
24The sons of Elioenai:
Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani—seven in all.
Footnotes:5aShimea is a variant of
Shammua; see
2 Samuel 5:14 and
1 Chronicles 14:4.
5b One Hebrew manuscript and Vulgate (see also LXX and
2 Samuel 11:3); most Hebrew manuscripts
Bath-shua5cAmmiel is a variant of
Eliam; see
2 Samuel 11:3.
6d Hebrew does not include
David’s other sons were.
6e Two Hebrew manuscripts (see also
2 Samuel 5:15 and
1 Chronicles 14:5); most Hebrew manuscripts
Elishama11fJoram is a variant spelling of
Jehoram.
12gAzariah is also called
Uzziah; see
2 Chronicles 26:1.
15hShallum is another name for
Jehoahaz.
16iJeconiah is a variant of
Jehoiachin; also in verse 17; see
2 Kings 24:6.
1 Chronicles 3 offers a meticulously structured list, tracing the genealogy of King David through the kingly line of Judah, showing a progression from the renowned King David to his descendants who occupied the throne. This chapter is a testament to God's promise of a perpetual kingdom established through David's lineage.
1 Chronicles was compiled after Judah’s return from Babylon. Recounting the Davidic line reminded a humbled people that God’s promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16) still stood, even though the throne was empty.
• Legitimacy – By listing every generation, the writer shows that the rightful rulers of Judah sprang from David alone.
• Continuity – The genealogy bridges the gap from monarchy to exile to restoration, tying Israel’s past to its future.
• Solomon (vv. 10-14): builder of the temple; foundation for the eternal “Son of David.”
• Zerubbabel (v. 19): led the first wave home, laid the second-temple foundation (Ezra 3:8-10;Haggai 2:23).
• Heritage is a stewardship, not a guarantee. Amnon, Absalom, Adonijah all held royal pedigree yet fell through sin.
• God’s plan weaves through flawed people. David’s family had scandal, but the messianic promise never wavered.
• Names carry testimony. Many of the post-exilic sons bear names praising God (e.g., “Shecaniah” = “the LORD has dwelt”), reflecting renewed hope.
• Bullae (seal impressions) reading “Belonging to Hezekiah son of Ahaz king of Judah” confirm v. 13.
• The Babylonian ration tablets record “Ya’u-kînu king of the land of Judah” (Jehoiachin, v. 17) receiving supplies in captivity, matching the exile account (2 Kings 25:27-30).
• Clay seals naming “Nathan-Melech” were found near the City of David, echoing the royal court setting (cf.2 Kings 23:11).
Though the kingdom was lost, verse 24 ends with Anani several generations after the captivity—evidence that the line survived. This underlinesLamentations 3:22: “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed.”
• God keeps track of people—names matter to Him.
• Promises may outlive circumstances; exile could not annul covenant.
• Our failures (like Manasseh’s) can be met with mercy when we turn back.
• Hope is generational: what God starts with one generation, He carries through many.
Connections to Additional Scriptures
2 Samuel 7:12-16God's covenant with David, promising an everlasting kingdom.
Matthew 1:1-17The genealogy of Jesus, connecting Him to David's line.
Romans 1:3-4Jesus as the descendant of David, declared the Son of God.
Teaching Points
David's Lineage1 Chronicles 3:1-9 lists the sons of David, emphasizing the importance of his family in Israel's history. This genealogy underscores God's covenant with David, as seen in
2 Samuel 7:12-16.
Solomon's ReignVerses 10-16 trace the line of kings from Solomon, highlighting the continuity of David's royal line despite the challenges and failures of some kings.
Exilic and Post-Exilic GenerationsVerses 17-24 cover the descendants during and after the Babylonian exile, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving David's line even in difficult times.
Messianic HopeThe genealogy ultimately points to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who fulfills God's promise of an eternal kingdom (
Matthew 1:1).
Practical Applications
Trust in God's PromisesJust as God was faithful to His covenant with David, we can trust Him to fulfill His promises in our lives.
Value of HeritageUnderstanding our spiritual heritage can strengthen our faith and identity as part of God's family.
Perseverance through TrialsThe preservation of David's line through exile encourages us to remain steadfast in faith during our own trials.
People
1.
DavidThe second king of Israel, anointed by God, and a central figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ. His name in Hebrew, דָּוִד (David), means "beloved."
2.
AmnonDavid's firstborn son, born to Ahinoam of Jezreel. He is known for his tragic account involving his half-sister Tamar.
3.
DanielAlso known as Chileab, David's second son, born to Abigail the Carmelitess. His name in Hebrew, דָּנִיֵּאל (Daniyyel), means "God is my judge."
4.
AbsalomDavid's third son, born to Maacah, daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. Known for his rebellion against David.
5.
AdonijahDavid's fourth son, born to Haggith. He attempted to claim the throne before Solomon was anointed king.
6.
ShephatiahDavid's fifth son, born to Abital. His name in Hebrew, שְׁפַטְיָה (Shephatyah), means "Yahweh has judged."
7.
IthreamDavid's sixth son, born to Eglah, David's wife.
8.
SolomonDavid's son by Bathsheba, known for his wisdom and building the First Temple in Jerusalem. His name in Hebrew, שְׁלֹמֹה (Shlomo), means "peaceful."
9.
RehoboamSolomon's son, who became the first king of the divided kingdom of Judah.
10.
AbijahRehoboam's son, who reigned as king of Judah.
11.
AsaAbijah's son, known for his religious reforms and efforts to rid Judah of idolatry.
12.
JehoshaphatAsa's son, known for his alliance with the northern kingdom of Israel and his judicial reforms.
13.
JehoramJehoshaphat's son, who married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel.
14.
AhaziahJehoram's son, who reigned for a short period before being killed.
15.
JoashAlso known as Jehoash, Ahaziah's son, who became king as a child and was guided by the priest Jehoiada.
16.
AmaziahJoash's son, known for his military campaigns and eventual downfall.
17.
AzariahAlso known as Uzziah, Amaziah's son, who had a long and prosperous reign but was struck with leprosy.
18.
JothamAzariah's son, known for his building projects and military successes.
19.
AhazJotham's son, known for his idolatry and alliance with Assyria.
20.
HezekiahAhaz's son, known for his religious reforms and trust in God during the Assyrian siege.
21.
ManassehHezekiah's son, known for his long reign and initial idolatry, followed by repentance.
22.
AmonManasseh's son, who continued his father's idolatrous practices.
23.
JosiahAmon's son, known for his significant religious reforms and rediscovery of the Book of the Law.
24.
JehoiakimJosiah's son, who was placed on the throne by Pharaoh Necho of Egypt.
25.
JeconiahAlso known as Jehoiachin, Jehoiakim's son, who was taken into Babylonian captivity.
26.
ShealtielJeconiah's son, who is listed in the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament.
27.
PedaiahShealtiel's brother, who is sometimes listed as the father of Zerubbabel.
28.
ZerubbabelA leader of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile and a governor of Judah.
29.
ShimeiA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
30.
MeshullamAnother descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
31.
HananiahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
32.
PelatiahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
33.
JeshaiahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
34.
RephaiahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
35.
ArnanA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
36.
ObadiahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
37.
ShecaniahA descendant of Zerubbabel, mentioned in the genealogy.
38.
NeariahA descendant of Shecaniah, mentioned in the genealogy.
39.
ElioenaiA descendant of Neariah, mentioned in the genealogy.
40.
HodaviahA descendant of Neariah, mentioned in the genealogy.
41.
MaaseiahA descendant of Neariah, mentioned in the genealogy.
Places
1.
HebronHebron is the city where David first reigned as king over Judah before moving his capital to Jerusalem. It is not directly mentioned in
1 Chronicles 3, but it is significant in the context of David's reign and his family. The Hebrew root for Hebron is "חֶבְרוֹן" (Chevron), which means "association" or "alliance."
2.
JerusalemJerusalem is the city where David established his throne over all Israel and where many of his descendants ruled. It is the central location for the Davidic dynasty. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace."
Events
1.
Descendants of David in HebronThe chapter begins by listing the sons born to David in Hebron. "These were the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron: the firstborn was Amnon by Ahinoam of Jezreel; the second was Daniel by Abigail of Carmel" (
1 Chronicles 3:1). The Hebrew root for "sons" (בָּנִים, banim) emphasizes the lineage and heritage aspect of David's family.
2.
David's Sons in JerusalemThe narrative continues with the sons born to David in Jerusalem. "These were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel" (
1 Chronicles 3:5). The mention of Solomon is significant, as he would later become king and build the temple.
3.
Additional Sons of DavidThe text lists additional sons of David, emphasizing the breadth of his family. "There were also Ibhar, Elishama, Eliphelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet—nine in all" (
1 Chronicles 3:6-8). The repetition of names like Elishama and Eliphelet may indicate different individuals or textual variations.
4.
David's Concubines' SonsThe chapter notes the sons born to David by his concubines, though they are not named individually. "All these were the sons of David, besides the sons by his concubines. And Tamar was their sister" (
1 Chronicles 3:9). The inclusion of Tamar highlights her significance in the narrative, despite the focus on male descendants.
5.
Lineage of SolomonThe genealogy continues with the descendants of Solomon, marking the royal line. "The descendants of Solomon: Rehoboam, Abijah his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son" (
1 Chronicles 3:10). This lineage underscores the continuity of the Davidic dynasty.
6.
Kings of JudahThe text provides a list of the kings of Judah, tracing the royal line through several generations. "Jehoram his son, Ahaziah his son, Joash his son, Amaziah his son, Azariah his son, Jotham his son" (
1 Chronicles 3:11-12). The Hebrew term for "son" (בֵּן, ben) is used to denote direct descent.
7.
Further GenerationsThe genealogy extends further, listing additional descendants. "Ahaz his son, Hezekiah his son, Manasseh his son, Amon his son, Josiah his son" (
1 Chronicles 3:13-14). This section highlights the continuity of the Davidic line through the history of Judah.
8.
Sons of JosiahThe chapter details the sons of Josiah, emphasizing the transition to the post-exilic period. "The sons of Josiah: Johanan was the firstborn, Jehoiakim the second, Zedekiah the third, and Shallum the fourth" (
1 Chronicles 3:15). This list reflects the turbulent times leading to the Babylonian exile.
9.
Descendants of JehoiachinThe genealogy concludes with the descendants of Jehoiachin, also known as Jeconiah, during the exile. "The descendants of Jehoiachin the captive: Shealtiel his son, Malchiram, Pedaiah, Shenazzar, Jekamiah, Hoshama, and Nedabiah" (
1 Chronicles 3:17-18). The term "captive" (גָּלוּת, galut) underscores the context of exile.
10.
Line of ZerubbabelThe chapter ends with the line of Zerubbabel, a key figure in the return from exile. "The sons of Pedaiah: Zerubbabel and Shimei. The sons of Zerubbabel: Meshullam and Hananiah, and Shelomith was their sister" (
1 Chronicles 3:19). Zerubbabel's role in rebuilding the temple is significant in the post-exilic restoration.
Lessons from 1 Chronicles 3
1. The Importance of Lineage and Legacy
1 Chronicles 3 opens with a detailed genealogy, reminding us of the significance of family heritage. This lineage is not just a list of names but a testament to God's faithfulness through generations. As it is written, "The sons of David were born to him in Hebron" (1 Chronicles 3:1). This highlights the importance of understanding where we come from and how our spiritual legacy can impact future generations. Our lives are part of a larger story that God is weaving, and we are called to honor that legacy by living faithfully.
2. God's Sovereignty in Leadership
The chapter lists the descendants of David, emphasizing God's hand in establishing leadership. David's line was chosen by God, illustrating that true leadership is ordained by Him. "These were the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron" (1 Chronicles 3:4) shows that God’s plans are sovereign, and He raises leaders according to His purpose. This encourages us to trust in God's timing and His choice of leaders in our lives.
3. The Value of Patience and Perseverance
David's journey to kingship was not immediate; it required patience and perseverance. The genealogy in1 Chronicles 3 reminds us that God's promises may take time to unfold. As we see the lineage unfold, we are reminded to "wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD" (Psalm 27:14). Patience is a virtue that allows us to align with God's timing.
4. The Role of Family in God's Plan
The chapter underscores the role of family in God's divine plan. Each name represents a link in the chain of God's unfolding story. "The sons of David" (1 Chronicles 3:1) were not just heirs but part of a divine narrative. This teaches us that our families are integral to God's work, and we are called to nurture and guide them in His ways.
5. The Significance of Names
In biblical times, names held great significance, often reflecting character or destiny. The names listed in1 Chronicles 3 remind us that God knows each of us by name and has a purpose for our lives. "The sons of David" (1 Chronicles 3:1) were known to God, just as we are. This encourages us to live up to the calling and identity God has given us.
6. God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogy in1 Chronicles 3 is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. Despite human failings, God's promises endure. "The sons of David" (1 Chronicles 3:1) are a reminder that God remains faithful to His covenant, and His promises are sure. This gives us hope and assurance that God will fulfill His promises to us as well.
7. The Impact of Obedience and Disobedience
The lives of David's descendants illustrate the consequences of obedience and disobedience. While some followed God, others strayed, impacting their legacy. This reminds us of the importance of walking in obedience to God's Word, as "blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it" (Luke 11:28).
8. The Power of Redemption
Despite the imperfections in David's lineage, God’s redemptive plan shines through. The genealogy points to Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer. This teaches us that no matter our past, God can redeem and use us for His glory. "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost" (Luke 19:10) is a promise of hope and restoration.
9. The Unity of Scripture
1 Chronicles 3 connects the Old Testament to the New Testament, showing the unity of Scripture. The lineage of David leads to Jesus, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating that all Scripture is interconnected. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching" (2 Timothy 3:16) reminds us of the cohesive and divine nature of the Bible.
10. The Assurance of God's Plan
Finally,1 Chronicles 3 reassures us of God's sovereign plan. Despite the complexities and challenges, God's purposes prevail. The genealogy is a reminder that God is in control, and His plans are for our good. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). This assurance encourages us to trust in His perfect will.
Topics
1.
Genealogy of David's Sons1 Chronicles 3 begins with the genealogy of David's sons, listing those born to him in Hebron and Jerusalem. This section highlights the importance of David's lineage in the history of Israel. The Hebrew term "בֵּן" (ben) is used for "son," emphasizing the familial connections and the continuation of David's royal line.
2.
Sons Born in HebronVerses 1-4 detail the sons born to David during his reign in Hebron. These include Amnon, Daniel, Absalom, Adonijah, Shephatiah, and Ithream. The text underscores the political and familial significance of these sons, as they were born during David's early reign.
3.
Sons Born in JerusalemVerses 5-9 list the sons born to David in Jerusalem, including Solomon, who would succeed David as king. This section highlights the centrality of Jerusalem in David's reign and the divine promise associated with Solomon's future temple-building.
4.
The Line of SolomonVerses 10-16 trace the royal lineage from Solomon to the time of the Babylonian exile. This genealogy underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant with David, as seen in the Hebrew word "מֶלֶךְ" (melek), meaning "king," which is central to the Davidic line.
5.
The Line of JeconiahVerses 17-24 focus on the descendants of Jeconiah (Jehoiachin), who was taken into Babylonian captivity. This section reflects the continuity of David's line even in exile, emphasizing hope and restoration for Israel. The Hebrew root "גָּלוּת" (galut), meaning "exile," is significant in understanding the historical context.
Themes
1.
Genealogy of David's Lineage1 Chronicles 3 provides a detailed genealogy of King David's descendants, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. This chapter underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding his descendants and their role in Israel's history. The Hebrew term "תּוֹלְדוֹת" (toledot), meaning "generations" or "descendants," highlights the continuity of God's covenant through David's line.
2.
Royal Succession and KingshipThe chapter outlines the succession of kings from David to the Babylonian exile, illustrating the theme of legitimate kingship and divine authority. The listing of David's sons and their successors reflects the biblical principle of dynastic continuity and the divine right to rule, as seen in the Hebrew word "מֶלֶךְ" (melek), meaning "king."
3.
Covenant FaithfulnessThe genealogy serves as a testament to God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, as recorded in
2 Samuel 7:12-16. Despite the failures and sins of individual kings, God's promise to maintain David's lineage remains steadfast, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His word.
4.
Hope Amidst ExileThe mention of the descendants during and after the Babylonian exile offers a message of hope and restoration. It reassures the Israelites of God's ongoing plan and the eventual return from exile, as seen in the continuity of David's line. The Hebrew root "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning "to return" or "restore," is implicit in the narrative of hope and future redemption.
5.
Messianic ExpectationThe genealogy in
1 Chronicles 3 also points forward to the Messianic hope, as it traces the lineage that would eventually lead to Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. This theme is central to Christian theology, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through the line of David, as seen in the Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos), meaning "anointed one" or "Messiah."
Prayer Points
Thanksgiving for God's FaithfulnessPraise God for His unwavering faithfulness to His promises throughout history.
Strength to Persevere
Ask for strength and perseverance in times of trial, trusting in God's ultimate plan.
Recognition of Spiritual Heritage
Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of our spiritual heritage in Christ.
As we study1 Chronicles 3, may we be reminded of God's unchanging faithfulness and the hope we have in Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of His promises.
Answering Tough Questions
1.
In 1 Chronicles 3:1–9, how do we reconcile David’s unusually large number of sons and wives with historical records of royal families in ancient Israel?2.In 1 Chronicles 3:10–16, why does the sequence of kings differ from certain historical references and archaeological findings?
3.In 1 Chronicles 3:17–19, how can Zerubbabel be listed as the son of both Pedaiah and Shealtiel, creating an apparent contradiction in lineage?
4.Why do the names and order in 1 Chronicles 3 sometimes conflict with genealogies in other parts of the Bible (e.g., Matthew 1)?
5.How do we explain the lack of external or archaeological evidence for many individuals listed in 1 Chronicles 3?
Bible Study Discussion Questions
1. What can we learn about God's faithfulness by examining the lineage of David?
2. How does the genealogy in 1 Chronicles 3 demonstrate God's sovereignty?
3. Consider the moral failings of several kings listed in this chapter. How does this contrast with God's perfect faithfulness?
4. In today's context, how can we trace God's hand in our own personal "genealogies" or life histories?
5. How does the listing of both righteous and unrighteous kings in David's line demonstrate God's grace and justice?
6. What purpose might the author of 1 Chronicles have had for including this detailed genealogy?
7. How does the promise to David about his descendants reflect in Jesus Christ?
8. How does the lineage of David inform our understanding of the continuity of God's promise?
9. What role does the lineage play in the Old Testament, and how is it relevant today?
10. Despite their failings, these kings were part of Jesus' lineage. How does this inform your understanding of God's grace and His plan of salvation?
11. If you were to write a genealogy of your spiritual journey, who would feature in it and why?
12. Reflect on the reigns of some of these kings. Which stories stand out, and what can they teach us about leadership, faithfulness, or failure?
13. How can studying these Old Testament lineages deepen our understanding and appreciation of the New Testament and Christ's fulfillment of prophecy?
14. Can you identify recurring patterns or characteristics among the kings listed in this genealogy? What can this teach us about human nature and the need for God's grace?
15. How does the record of Judah's kings' succession reassure us of God's control over history?
16. How does the continuity of David's lineage, despite various trials, mirror our life situations today?
17. In a world that is increasingly individualistic, what does this emphasis on lineage and ancestry teach us about community, continuity, and our connections with the past?
18. How can we apply the lessons from the lives of these Old Testament kings to our own lives today?
19. This genealogy ends with an account of descendants seven generations after the exile. How does this record of survival and continuity inspire you in your faith journey?
20. How can you see Jesus Christ, the ultimate King in the line of David, reflected in the lives of these Old Testament kings?
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