1 Chronicles 1:2
Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jered,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Written post-exilic (c. 450-400 BC), Chronicles reestablished Israel's identity after Babylonian captivity by tracing their lineage back to Adam. The Chronicler drew from Genesis 5 but adapted it for returnees needing to reclaim their theological heritage and land rights through documented ancestry.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's preservation of a faithful line through history assure you of His commitment to fulfill His promises?
- What does it mean that your spiritual lineage traces back through Christ to Adam—both as fallen humanity and redeemed creation?
Analysis & Commentary
Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jered—these patriarchs bridge Adam to Noah in the godly line (Genesis 5). The Hebrew name קֵינָן (Qenan) means 'possession' or 'acquisition,' while מַהֲלַלְאֵל (Mahalalel) means 'praise of God,' and יֶרֶד (Yered) means 'descent.' The Chronicler omits Cain's line entirely, focusing only on the lineage through which Messiah would come.
This selective genealogy reflects Hebrew historiography's theological purpose—not exhaustive records but heilsgeschichte (salvation history). Every name preserved points toward God's covenant faithfulness across generations, culminating in David and ultimately Christ (Matthew 1:1-17).