1 Chronicles 2:21

Later, Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead. He had married her when he was sixty years old, and she bore to him Segub.

Study Bible

Later, Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead.
Hezron is a significant figure in the genealogy of Judah, being a grandson of Judah himself. The mention of Machir, the father of Gilead, connects this narrative to the tribe of Manasseh, as Machir was the firstborn of Manasseh (Genesis 50:23). This inter-tribal marriage highlights the interconnectedness of the tribes of Israel. Gilead, a region east of the Jordan River, was known for its balm and rugged terrain, often symbolizing strength and healing. The union between Hezron and the daughter of Machir suggests a strategic alliance, possibly for territorial or familial consolidation.

He had married her when he was sixty years old,
The age of sixty for Hezron at the time of marriage is noteworthy, indicating a later stage in life for fathering children. This detail emphasizes the continuation of God's promises and blessings through the lineage of Judah, despite human limitations. It also reflects the cultural norms of the time, where marriages could occur at various stages of life, often influenced by social and familial obligations.

and she bore to him Segub.
Segub, the son born from this union, is part of the lineage that would eventually lead to the establishment of significant families within Israel. The birth of Segub signifies the ongoing fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring the growth and prosperity of the Israelite tribes. This lineage is crucial for understanding the genealogical records that lead to King David and, ultimately, to Jesus Christ, fulfilling the messianic prophecies of a ruler from the line of Judah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezron
A descendant of Judah, Hezron is an important figure in the genealogy of the tribe of Judah. He is the grandfather of Caleb and the father of several significant descendants.

2. Makir
The father of Gilead, Makir is a notable figure in the tribe of Manasseh. His lineage is significant in the history of Israel, particularly in the settlement of the land east of the Jordan River.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, Gilead is often associated with the tribes of Manasseh and Gad. It is known for its balm and fertile land.

4. Segub
The son of Hezron and the daughter of Makir, Segub is part of the lineage that connects the tribes of Judah and Manasseh.

5. Marriage at Sixty
The event of Hezron marrying at sixty years old highlights the continuation of God's promises through unexpected circumstances and ages.

Teaching Points

God's Timing and Purposes
God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways and times. Hezron's marriage at sixty and the birth of Segub remind us that God's purposes transcend human expectations and timelines.

Interconnectedness of God's People
The marriage between Hezron and the daughter of Makir illustrates the unity and interconnectedness of the tribes of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity within the body of Christ today.

Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogies in Scripture highlight God's faithfulness to His promises across generations. We are encouraged to trust in God's faithfulness in our own lives and families.

Legacy and Heritage
Our actions and decisions can have lasting impacts on future generations. Hezron's lineage played a crucial role in the history of Israel, reminding us to consider the legacy we leave behind.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the marriage of Hezron at sixty years old challenge our understanding of God's timing in our lives?

2. In what ways does the connection between the tribes of Judah and Manasseh through Hezron's marriage reflect the unity we should strive for in the church today?

3. How can we see God's faithfulness to His promises in the genealogies of the Bible, and how does this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the legacy of Hezron and his descendants about the impact of our faith and actions on future generations?

5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's timing and purposes in our current life situations, especially when things do not go as planned?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:23
This verse mentions the descendants of Makir, connecting the lineage of Manasseh to the broader account of Israel's tribes.

Numbers 26:29-30
These verses provide a census of the descendants of Manasseh, including the family of Makir, showing the fulfillment of God's promise to multiply Israel.

Ruth 4:18-22
This genealogy of David traces back to Hezron, emphasizing the importance of Hezron's lineage in the messianic line.