the fifth, Shephatiah, by Abital; the sixth, Ithream, by his wife Eglah;
English Standard Version (ESV)
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1 Chronicles 3:3
What does 1 Chronicles 3:3 mean?
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1 Chronicles 3:3
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It's easy to skim past this verse, but notice how the text specifically names the mothers of these sons, distinguishing them from other wives who aren't mentioned. This detail highlights the importance of lineage and the specific individuals God chose to carry forward His promises, even within a complex family structure.
the fifth, Shephatiah, by Abital; the sixth, Ithream, by his wife Eglah;
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the lineage of David. It details the sons born to David during his time in Hebron, listing them alongside their mothers. Immediately following this, the text continues to enumerate David's other sons and descendants, highlighting the continuation of his royal line.
Ever feel lost in the crowd, like your story doesn't matter? The Bible often highlights grand heroes, but what about the everyday folks and their families?
The Significance of Every Name
This verse might seem like just a string of names, a quick mention in a long genealogy. But in ancient Israel, genealogies were vital. They traced lineage, land rights, and covenant promises.
Even names that appear briefly, like Abital and Eglah here, represent real people. They were mothers, part of the fabric of the community, contributing to the continuation of the lineage. Their mention, however small, affirms their place in God's unfolding plan.
David, Israel's beloved king, faced immense personal and political turmoil. How did his family life reflect these struggles, and what does it mean for us?
The Shadow of Struggle, The Light of Hope
This verse names two of David's sons: Shephatiah and Ithream. These names appear in the context of David's reign in Jerusalem. While not as famous as Solomon or Absalom, they are part of the royal line.
Their mothers, Abital and Eglah, are also mentioned. The Bible doesn't shy away from the complexities of David's family. He had many wives and children, and his family life was marked by both joy and deep sorrow (think Amnon, Absalom, Tamar).
Yet, despite the difficulties, the lineage continued. God's promises to David were not annulled by his family's struggles. This continuity points to God's faithfulness, even when human lives are messy and imperfect.
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c. 1040 BC
David Anointed King
David is secretly anointed king by Samuel, though Saul is still reigning. This marks the beginning of David's rise to power.
c. 1010 BC
David Becomes King of Judah
After Saul's death, David is made king over the tribe of Judah. He eventually unites all the tribes.
c. 1010-1003 BC
Wars and Consolidation of Power
David wages war against the Philistines and other enemies, securing his kingdom and establishing Jerusalem as his capital.
c. 1003 BC
David Takes Bathsheba
While his army is at war, David commits adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrates the death of her husband, Uriah the Hittite.
c. 1002 BC
Birth of Solomon
Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, is born. He will later succeed David as king.
c. 1000 BC— this verse
David's Family Grows
This period sees the birth and upbringing of many of David's sons, including those mentioned in this genealogy.
c. 970 BC
David's Death
David dies after a long and eventful reign, leaving his kingdom to his son Solomon.
This passage lists the same sons of David born in Hebron, identifying their mothers, which provides context for the genealogy in 1 Chronicles.
Genesis 35:23-26This passage lists the sons of Jacob, providing a parallel for patriarchal lineage and the importance of recording family lines across generations.
1 Chronicles 14:3-7This passage also records David's children born in Jerusalem, highlighting the continuation of his family line and the significance of different locations for these events.
It's easy to skim past this verse, but notice how the text specifically names the mothers of these sons, distinguishing them from other wives who aren't mentioned. This detail highlights the importance of lineage and the specific individuals God chose to carry forward His promises, even within a complex family structure.
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the lineage of David. It details the sons born to David during his time in Hebron, listing them alongside their mothers. Immediately following this, the text continues to enumerate David's other sons and descendants, highlighting the continuation of his royal line.
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the lineage of David. It details the sons born to David during his time in Hebron, listing them alongside their mothers. Immediately following this, the text continues to enumerate David's other sons and descendants, highlighting the continuation of his royal line.
"the fifth, Shephatiah, by Abital; the sixth, Ithream, by his wife Eglah;" — It's easy to skim past this verse, but notice how the text specifically names the mothers of these sons, distinguishing them from other wives who aren't mentioned. This detail highlights the import…
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Last reviewed October 2026