1 Chronicles 8:29

Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon. His wife's name was Maacah,

Study Bible

Jeiel the father of Gibeon
Jeiel is identified as the patriarch of Gibeon, a significant city in the territory of Benjamin. This highlights his importance in the genealogical record of the tribe. Gibeon was a prominent city, known for its strategic location and its role in various biblical events, such as the Gibeonite deception in Joshua 9. Jeiel's mention here underscores the continuity of Israel's tribal heritage and the importance of family lineage in maintaining tribal identity.

lived in Gibeon
Gibeon was located northwest of Jerusalem and played a crucial role in Israel's history. It was a Levitical city and a city of refuge, indicating its religious and judicial significance. The city's location made it a key site for trade and military strategy. Archaeological findings, such as the large water system, attest to its historical importance. The mention of Jeiel living in Gibeon emphasizes the rootedness of his family in this influential city.

His wife’s name was Maacah
Maacah is a name that appears several times in the Old Testament, often associated with royal or noble families. The inclusion of her name in the genealogy suggests her significance, possibly indicating her own noble lineage or her role in the family's status. In biblical genealogies, the mention of a wife often highlights her importance in the continuation of the family line or her influence within the family. This reflects the cultural context where family alliances and heritage were crucial for social and political standing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeiel
Identified as the father of Gibeon, Jeiel is a patriarchal figure whose lineage is significant in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. His role as a father indicates his importance in the establishment and development of the city of Gibeon.

2. Gibeon
A significant city in the territory of Benjamin, Gibeon holds historical and theological importance in Israel's history. It was known for its strategic location and later became a Levitical city.

3. Maacah
The wife of Jeiel, Maacah is mentioned here, highlighting the familial structure and the importance of lineage in the biblical account.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage and Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can provide a sense of identity and purpose. Just as Jeiel's lineage was significant for the tribe of Benjamin, our spiritual lineage in Christ is foundational to our faith.

The Role of Family in God's Plan
Families are central to God's design for society and His redemptive plan. The mention of Jeiel and Maacah reminds us of the importance of family in nurturing faith and passing down spiritual values.

God's Sovereignty in History
The city of Gibeon and its inhabitants played a crucial role in Israel's history, demonstrating God's sovereignty in orchestrating events and using people for His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Gibeon enhance our appreciation of its role in biblical history?

2. In what ways can we draw parallels between the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles and our spiritual heritage in Christ?

3. How does the mention of family members like Jeiel and Maacah in the Bible encourage us to value our own family relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Gibeonites' interactions with Israel that apply to our own decision-making and relationships?

5. How can we see God's hand in the seemingly mundane details of our lives, as evidenced by the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The Gibeonites' treaty with Israel is a pivotal event that underscores the city's strategic importance and its inhabitants' cunning. This connection highlights the historical backdrop of Gibeon and its people.

1 Samuel 13-14
The city of Gibeon is mentioned in the context of King Saul's reign, providing insight into its continued significance in Israel's history.

1 Chronicles 9:35-44
This passage provides a parallel genealogy, offering additional context and details about Jeiel's family and their role in the tribe of Benjamin.