1 Chronicles 1:48-53
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It's easy to speed past this verse, but notice how it connects "Samlah died" directly to "Shaul of Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned." This isn't just a succession; it's highlighting a significant geographical shift, placing a new leader in a place as pivotal and ancient as the Euphrates River, suggesting the ongoing expansion and influence of these lineage groups.
Samlah died, and Shaul of Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place. Shaul died, and Baal-hanan, the son of Achbor, reigned in his place. Baal-hanan died, and Hadad reigned in his place, the name of his city being Pai; and his wife’s name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab. And Hadad died. The chiefs of Edom were: chiefs Timna, Alvah, Jetheth, Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon, Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar,
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the lineage from Adam to David, focusing on the descendants of Israel. It highlights a brief succession in the kingship of Edom, showing how one ruler died and another took his place, connecting them to the broader story of the people of God. This passage serves as a historical marker, demonstrating God's ongoing plan through generations, even amidst the rise and fall of rulers.
Genealogies in the Bible aren't just dusty lists. They reveal purpose and connect God's people across time.
More Than Just Names
When you read through the genealogies in 1 Chronicles, it's easy to skim. But each name represents a life, a lineage, and a piece of God's unfolding plan. This verse marks the transition of leadership from Samlah to Shaul.
A Moment of Succession
This isn't just about who took over; it signals continuity and the passing of a torch. Even as leaders change, God's promises and His people endure.
Where was Rehoboth? This verse places an early Israelite community in a location that might surprise you.
A Surprising Location
Rehoboth on the Euphrates isn't a name you typically associate with the later promised land of Canaan. The Euphrates River is far to the east of Canaan, in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq).
Echoes of the Patriarchs
This geographical marker connects the early days of Israel to the land from which Abraham and his family were called (Genesis 11:31). It suggests that the narrative of Israel's beginnings has roots in this broader Mesopotamian region, far from the later borders of the nation.
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Understand the original words
ba'al chanan · Hebrew Noun (Proper Name)
A common Canaanite word meaning 'lord' or 'master.' While it was used as a divine name for pagan deities, it was also used in human names to signify belonging or honor, though in biblical contexts, it often carries the weight of idolatrous association.
alluph · Hebrew Noun
A term used in this context to denote a tribal leader, sheik, or military commander. It represents a position of authority and governance within Edomite society.
Edom · Hebrew Proper Noun
A nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob. They are often portrayed in the Old Testament as being in conflict or rivalry with the nation of Israel, though they share a common ancestor.
This passage lists the cities that were part of Nimrod's kingdom, including Rehoboth, which helps place the historical context of Shaul's reign geographically.
Genesis 46:10This verse mentions Shaul as one of Simeon's sons, offering a potential genealogical connection or different usage of the name Shaul within biblical accounts.
1 Samuel 9:1-2This passage introduces Saul, a prominent king from the tribe of Benjamin, showing another significant figure named Shaul who rose to prominence in Israel's history.
Joshua 13:5This verse describes the land of the Canaanites east of the Jordan, which would include the region of the Euphrates where Rehoboth was located, further defining the geographical scope.
It's easy to speed past this verse, but notice how it connects "Samlah died" directly to "Shaul of Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned." This isn't just a succession; it's highlighting a significant geographical shift, placing a new leader in a place as pivotal and ancient as the Euphrates River, suggesting the ongoing expansion and influence of these lineage groups.
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the lineage from Adam to David, focusing on the descendants of Israel. It highlights a brief succession in the kingship of Edom, showing how one ruler died and another took his place, connecting them to the broader story of the people of God. This passage serves as a historical marker, demonstrating God's ongoing plan through generations, even amidst the rise and fall of rulers.
This verse is part of a long genealogy tracing the lineage from Adam to David, focusing on the descendants of Israel. It highlights a brief succession in the kingship of Edom, showing how one ruler died and another took his place, connecting them to the broader story of the people of God. This passage serves as a historical marker, demonstrating God's ongoing plan through generations, even amidst the rise and fall of rulers.
"Samlah died, and Shaul of Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place. Shaul died, and Baal-hanan, the son of Achbor, reigned in his place. Baal-hanan died, and Hadad reigned in his place, the name of his city being Pai; and his wife’s…" — It's easy to speed past this verse, but notice how it connects "Samlah died" directly to "Shaul of Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned." This isn't just a succession; it's highlighting a significant ge…
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Last reviewed October 2026
