Definition: And the families of the scribes which dwelt at Jabez; the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, [and] Suchathites. These [are] the Kenites that came of Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 2:55. It’s a bit complex, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here's what it means, explained as clearly as possible: The Basic Idea: This verse describes the ancestry of a group of people who lived in Jerusalem during the time of King David. It’s about tracing back their lineage to a specific family named the Kenites. Let’s look at the parts: “And the families of the scribes which dwelt at Jabez…” – This refers to a group of scribes who lived near the Jabez house (likely a significant building in Jerusalem). "Scribes" were responsible for writing and recording information. “…the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, [and] Suchathites.” - These are three specific groups of people – the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, and the Suchathites – who lived near Jabez. They were all connected to each other. “These [are] the Kenites that came of Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab.” - This is the crucial part! The Kenites are the main group being described. "Hemath" was a powerful and influential ruler in ancient times who controlled a large territory. “The house of Rechab” refers to a specific family or clan within the Kenite group – specifically, the descendants of Rechab. Putting it all together: This verse tells us that these three groups – the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, and the Suchathites – are all descended from a family named the Kenites who were connected to the powerful ruler Hemath. They originated from a branch of the Kenite family, who became part of the larger Kenite community, and that lineage eventually led to the Rechab clan. In short: This verse establishes a historical connection between a group of scribes and a specific branch of the Kenites, tracing back their roots to a powerful ruler in ancient times. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the word "Kenites"? Discuss the importance of the region (Jabez and its connection to the story)?