1 Chronicles 4:9

Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "Because I bore him in pain."

Study Bible

Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers.
Jabez is introduced in the genealogies of Judah, a tribe known for its leadership and prominence in Israel's history. The term "honorable" suggests a reputation for integrity and righteousness, qualities highly valued in biblical narratives. This distinction implies that Jabez's character set him apart from his siblings, possibly indicating a life of faithfulness and devotion to God. The emphasis on honor may also reflect the cultural importance of reputation and legacy in ancient Israelite society. The mention of brothers suggests a familial context, where sibling relationships often highlight themes of rivalry or distinction, as seen in stories like Joseph and his brothers in Genesis.

His mother had named him Jabez, saying,
The act of naming in biblical times carried significant weight, often reflecting circumstances of birth or prophetic insights into a person's future. The name "Jabez" is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "pain" or "sorrow," indicating that his mother experienced significant distress during childbirth. This practice of naming based on birth circumstances is seen elsewhere in Scripture, such as with Benjamin, whose mother Rachel named him Ben-Oni, meaning "son of my sorrow," before his father Jacob renamed him. The mother's role in naming highlights the maternal influence and the emotional and physical challenges of childbirth in ancient times.

“Because I bore him in pain.”
The phrase underscores the physical and emotional toll of childbirth, a common theme in biblical narratives. Pain in childbirth is first mentioned in Genesis 3:16 as part of the consequences of the Fall, linking Jabez's story to the broader narrative of human suffering and redemption. The acknowledgment of pain also reflects the reality of life in a fallen world, where joy and sorrow often coexist. This context may suggest that Jabez's life, marked by a name associated with pain, would be one of overcoming adversity, a theme resonant with the biblical message of hope and divine intervention. The mention of pain could also foreshadow the transformative power of prayer and faith, as Jabez later calls on God for blessing and deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jabez
A man noted for his honor and integrity, more so than his brothers. His name, meaning "pain" or "sorrow," was given by his mother due to the circumstances of his birth.

2. Jabez's Mother
She named her son Jabez, reflecting the pain she experienced during childbirth. Her perspective highlights the cultural significance of names in biblical times.

3. The Tribe of Judah
Jabez is mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah, indicating his lineage and the importance of his account within the context of Israel's history.

Teaching Points

The Power of a Name
Names in biblical times often reflected circumstances or prophetic insights. Consider how names and labels affect identity and self-perception today.

Honor in God's Eyes
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, suggesting that God values integrity and righteousness over worldly success or status.

Overcoming Adversity
Despite being named for pain, Jabez rose above his circumstances, teaching us that our past or the labels others place on us do not define our future.

The Importance of Prayer
Jabez's account continues with a powerful prayer, reminding us of the importance of seeking God's blessing and guidance in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the name "Jabez" reveal about his mother's experience and how might this have impacted Jabez's life and identity?

2. How does Jabez's honor compare to the biblical concept of honor found in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 2:30?

3. In what ways can we apply the lesson of Jabez's honorable life to our own daily walk with God?

4. How does the account of Jabez encourage us to overcome negative labels or circumstances in our lives?

5. Reflect on the role of prayer in Jabez's life. How can we incorporate similar earnestness and faith in our own prayer life, as suggested by James 5:16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:18
This verse describes Rachel naming her son Ben-Oni, meaning "son of my sorrow," which parallels the naming of Jabez and highlights the significance of names in expressing personal experiences and emotions.

1 Samuel 2:30
This verse speaks of God honoring those who honor Him, which connects to Jabez being described as more honorable than his brothers, suggesting a life lived in accordance with God's will.

James 5:16
This verse emphasizes the power of a righteous person's prayer, which relates to Jabez's later prayer in 1 Chronicles 4:10, demonstrating the effectiveness of earnest prayer.