1 Chronicles 9:38

Mikloth was the father of Shimeam. They too lived alongside their relatives in Jerusalem.

Study Bible

Mikloth was the father of Shimeam.
Mikloth is a name that appears in the genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin, specifically in the context of the descendants of Saul, Israel's first king. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the continuity and legitimacy of the Israelite tribes after the Babylonian exile. Mikloth's mention here highlights the importance of family lineage and heritage in maintaining tribal identity. The name "Mikloth" means "staves" or "rods," which could symbolize leadership or authority, a fitting connection given the royal lineage of Saul. Shimeam, his son, is less known, but his inclusion underscores the chronicler's intent to preserve the memory of even lesser-known family members, emphasizing the value of each individual in God's plan.

They too lived alongside their relatives in Jerusalem.
The phrase indicates the return and settlement of the Benjaminites in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Jerusalem, the spiritual and political center of Israel, was significant for the restoration of the Jewish community. Living "alongside their relatives" suggests a close-knit community, essential for rebuilding the nation and maintaining cultural and religious practices. This settlement reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people to their land, as prophesied in books like Jeremiah and Isaiah. The return to Jerusalem also prefigures the ultimate gathering of God's people, a theme echoed in the New Testament with the establishment of the Church and the future hope of the New Jerusalem in Revelation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mikloth
A descendant of Benjamin, Mikloth is mentioned as the father of Shimeam. His lineage is part of the genealogical records that emphasize the restoration of the community in Jerusalem after the exile.

2. Shimeam
The son of Mikloth, Shimeam is part of the genealogical record that highlights the continuity of the Israelite community.

3. Jerusalem
The central city for the Israelites, Jerusalem is significant as the place where these families resided, symbolizing the restoration and continuity of God's people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage helps us appreciate the continuity of faith through generations. Just as the Israelites valued their genealogies, we should value our spiritual lineage and the legacy of faith passed down to us.

Community Restoration
The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the community is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness in restoring His people. In our lives, God is also at work restoring and rebuilding areas that have been broken.

Living in Community
The mention of living alongside relatives highlights the importance of community and fellowship. As believers, we are called to live in community, supporting and encouraging one another in our faith journey.

God's Faithfulness in Exile and Return
The genealogies remind us of God's faithfulness during times of exile and return. Even when we feel distant from God, He is working to bring us back into His presence and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 9:38 enhance our appreciation for the continuity of God's people throughout history?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of community restoration in our own lives and churches today?

3. How does the return to Jerusalem after exile serve as a metaphor for spiritual renewal in our personal walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can live in community with other believers, as exemplified by the families living together in Jerusalem?

5. How can reflecting on God's faithfulness in the past encourage us in times of personal or communal "exile" or difficulty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 8
This chapter provides a broader genealogical context for the tribe of Benjamin, to which Mikloth and Shimeam belong. It emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage in maintaining the identity of God's people.

Nehemiah 11
This passage also lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem, showing the repopulation and restoration efforts after the Babylonian exile, similar to the context in 1 Chronicles 9.

Ezra 2
The return of the exiles and the re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem is a theme that resonates with the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 9.