Bible Commentaries
1 Chronicles 8

Verses 1-40

6. Benjamin

CHAPTER 8

1. The genealogies of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:1-28 )

2. The house of Saul (1 Chronicles 8:29-40 )

In comparing this list with Genesis 46:21 we find some differences. The names of Benjamites include many who were born in the captivity and who returned to the land and dwelt in Jerusalem. Twice we read “those dwelt in Jerusalem” (verses 28, 32). Some of the names are found in the list of restored exiles in Ezra (chapter 2). Benjamin being brought back from the exile, their loyalty to Judah and the temple was rewarded by God. The following passages will give further light on Benjamin’s connection with Judah and sharing the blessing of the return from Babylon (Ezra 1:5 ; chapter 2; 4:1; Nehemiah 7:0 ; Nehemiah 11:4 , Nehemiah 11:7 , Nehemiah 11:31 ; Nehemiah 12:34 ).

The genealogy of Saul stands last in this chapter. The overthrow of Saul in chapter 10 forms the beginning of the historical records in Chronicles. The son of Jonathan mentioned in verse 34 as Merib-baal is Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 4:4 ).