1 Chronicles 3:20

and five others: Hashubah, Ohel, Berechiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-hesed.

Study Bible

and Hashubah
The name "Hashubah" means "considerate" or "esteemed" in Hebrew. This name reflects a characteristic valued in biblical times, suggesting a person of thoughtfulness or high regard. In the context of genealogies, names often carried significant meaning, indicating the hopes or attributes parents desired for their children. Hashubah's inclusion in this lineage underscores the importance of each individual in the unfolding account of God's people.

Ohel
The name "Ohel" translates to "tent" in Hebrew. Tents were central to the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites, symbolizing both physical dwelling and spiritual pilgrimage. The use of this name may reflect the transient nature of life and the journey of faith, reminding believers of their temporary sojourn on earth and the eternal home promised by God.

Berechiah
Meaning "Yahweh blesses" or "blessed by the Lord," Berechiah's name is a testament to the divine favor and blessing that the Israelites sought from God. This name serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where blessings were both a sign of God's faithfulness and a call to live in obedience to His commands.

Hasadiah
This name means "Yahweh is kind" or "the Lord shows mercy." It highlights the attribute of God's loving-kindness and mercy, which is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures. The inclusion of Hasadiah in the genealogy emphasizes the enduring mercy of God towards His people, a source of hope and encouragement for believers.

and Jushab-hesed
The name "Jushab-hesed" translates to "love is returned" or "mercy is restored." This name encapsulates the reciprocal nature of God's covenant love, where His mercy invites a response of love and faithfulness from His people. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God's grace, calling believers to live lives marked by love and mercy in response to the divine kindness they have received.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hashubah
One of the sons of Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David. His name means "consideration" or "thoughtfulness" in Hebrew.

2. Ohel
Another son of Zerubbabel. The name "Ohel" means "tent" or "tabernacle" in Hebrew, possibly indicating a connection to dwelling or presence.

3. Berechiah
Also a son of Zerubbabel. His name means "Yahweh blesses" or "blessed by the Lord" in Hebrew, reflecting a divine favor or blessing.

4. Hasadiah
Another son of Zerubbabel. The name "Hasadiah" means "Yahweh is kind" or "mercy of the Lord" in Hebrew, emphasizing God's kindness and mercy.

5. Jushab-hesed
The final son listed of Zerubbabel in this verse. His name means "return of love" or "restored love" in Hebrew, suggesting themes of reconciliation and restoration.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Names
In biblical times, names were often prophetic or descriptive of character. Reflect on the significance of your own name and how it might relate to your identity in Christ.

God's Blessing and Kindness
Berechiah and Hasadiah remind us of God's continual blessing and kindness. Consider how you can be a conduit of God's blessing and kindness to others.

Restoration and Reconciliation
Jushab-hesed speaks to the power of restored love. In what ways can you seek reconciliation in your relationships, mirroring God's restorative work in your life?

Legacy and Lineage
Zerubbabel's descendants remind us of the importance of spiritual legacy. How are you contributing to a legacy of faith in your family or community?

Thoughtfulness and Consideration
Hashubah's name encourages us to be thoughtful and considerate in our actions and decisions. How can you practice greater thoughtfulness in your daily life?

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the meanings of the names in 1 Chronicles 3:20 reflect the character of God, and how can these attributes be seen in your life today?

2. Zerubbabel is a key figure in the lineage of Jesus. How does understanding his role in biblical history enhance your appreciation of God's faithfulness to His promises?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's kindness or blessing. How can you share that experience to encourage others in their faith journey?

4. In what ways can you actively participate in God's work of restoration and reconciliation in your community or family?

5. Consider the legacy you are building. What steps can you take to ensure that it aligns with biblical principles and honors God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Zerubbabel's Lineage
Zerubbabel is a significant figure in the post-exilic period, and his lineage is mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises through David's line.

Names and Meanings
The meanings of the names in this verse can be connected to various Psalms and Proverbs that speak of God's blessing, kindness, and the importance of thoughtful consideration.

Restoration Themes
The name Jushab-hesed can be linked to the broader biblical theme of restoration, as seen in the prophetic books like Isaiah and Jeremiah, where God promises to restore Israel.