1 Chronicles 2:27

Authorized King James Version

And the sons of Ram the firstborn of Jerahmeel were, Maaz, and Jamin, and Eker.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּֽהְי֥וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בְנֵי

H1121

And the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

רָ֖ם

H7410

of Ram

ram, the name of an arabian and of an israelite

בְּכ֣וֹר

H1060

the firstborn

first-born; hence, chief

יְרַחְמְאֵ֑ל

H3396

of Jerahmeel

jerachmeel, the name of three israelites

מַ֥עַץ

H4619

were Maaz

maats, an israelite

וְיָמִ֖ין

H3226

and Jamin

jamin, the name of three israelites

וָעֵֽקֶר׃

H6134

and Eker

eker, an israelite

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Chronicles chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?