1 Chronicles 3:24

The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani--seven in all.

Study Bible

The sons of Elioenai:
Elioenai is a descendant of David, specifically from the line of Solomon, which is significant in tracing the royal lineage. His name means "My eyes are toward God," reflecting a common practice of naming children with a focus on divine attributes or aspirations. This lineage is crucial for understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding his descendants.

Hodaviah:
Hodaviah's name means "Praise of the Lord" or "Thanksgiving to Yahweh." This name reflects the cultural and religious emphasis on gratitude and worship within the Israelite community. Names often carried theological significance, indicating the parents' faith and hopes for their children.

Eliashib:
Eliashib means "God restores." This name is significant in the context of post-exilic Israel, where restoration was a central theme. Eliashib is also a name associated with a high priest in the time of Nehemiah, suggesting a possible connection or commonality in naming practices among priestly and royal lines.

Pelaiah:
Pelaiah means "The Lord does wonders." This name underscores the belief in God's miraculous interventions in the lives of His people. It reflects the cultural context where divine acts were seen as integral to the history and future of Israel.

Akkub:
Akkub means "Insidious" or "Cunning." This name appears in other genealogical records, indicating it was a common name. It is also associated with temple servants, suggesting a possible link to religious service or duties.

Johanan:
Johanan means "The Lord is gracious." This name is shared by several biblical figures, including a high priest and a military leader, indicating its popularity and the importance of grace as a divine attribute in Israelite theology.

Delaiah:
Delaiah means "The Lord has drawn" or "Yahweh has delivered." This name reflects themes of deliverance and divine intervention, which are prevalent throughout the Old Testament narrative, especially in the context of Israel's history of exile and return.

Anani:
Anani means "My cloud" or "Protected by God." This name may symbolize divine protection and guidance, reminiscent of the cloud that led the Israelites in the wilderness. It highlights the belief in God's ongoing presence and protection over His people.

Seven in all:
The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in biblical literature. The mention of seven sons may indicate a sense of fulfillment or divine blessing upon Elioenai's family, aligning with the broader biblical theme of God's perfect plan and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elioenai
A descendant of David, Elioenai is listed as the father of seven sons. His name means "My eyes are toward the Lord," reflecting a posture of faith and reliance on God.

2. Hodaviah
One of Elioenai's sons, his name means "Praise of the Lord," indicating a life that should be characterized by worship and gratitude.

3. Eliashib
Another son of Elioenai, his name means "God restores," suggesting themes of renewal and divine intervention.

4. Pelaiah
His name means "The Lord does wonders," pointing to the miraculous works of God in the lives of His people.

5. Akkub
Meaning "Insidious" or "Cunning," this name may reflect a more complex character or a reminder of human nature's potential for both good and ill.

6. Johanan
Meaning "The Lord is gracious," this name emphasizes God's grace and favor.

7. Delaiah
His name means "The Lord has drawn," suggesting themes of divine calling and purpose.

8. Anani
Meaning "My cloud," this name could symbolize God's presence and guidance, as clouds often represent in biblical imagery.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Legacy
The genealogies remind us of the importance of family heritage and the spiritual legacy we leave for future generations. Our lives should reflect values and faith that can be passed down.

Names Reflect Character and Calling
In biblical times, names often signified character or divine purpose. Consider how your identity in Christ shapes your life and calling.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The continuity of David's line demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Trust in God's unchanging nature and His plans for your life.

The Role of Worship and Praise
Names like Hodaviah remind us of the centrality of worship in our relationship with God. Cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise in all circumstances.

Restoration and Renewal
Names such as Eliashib and Pelaiah point to God's power to restore and perform wonders. Seek God's restoration in areas of brokenness in your life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the genealogy in 1 Chronicles 3:24 encourage you to think about your own spiritual legacy?

2. In what ways can the meanings of the names listed in this verse inspire you to live out your faith more fully?

3. How do the themes of restoration and renewal in this passage connect with other parts of Scripture, such as the return from exile in Ezra and Nehemiah?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that worship and praise are central in your daily life, as suggested by the name Hodaviah?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness across generations in your family or community. How can this encourage you in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 3:1-24
This chapter provides a genealogical record of David's descendants, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises through the Davidic line.

Ezra 2:40-42
The names of some of Elioenai's sons appear in the lists of those returning from exile, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people.

Nehemiah 12:1-26
The mention of similar names in the context of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls connects to themes of restoration and renewal.