The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Shallum, the descendants of Bilhah.
English Standard Version (ESV)
All verses
1 Chronicles 7:13
What does 1 Chronicles 7:13 mean?
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
1 Chronicles 7:13
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Even though this verse lists only names, it’s a powerful reminder of how God remembers everyone, even those whose stories aren't explicitly detailed in the grand narratives. The repetition of "sons of" and "descendants of" emphasizes the continuity of God's covenant, extending to every family line. It shows that every individual, no matter how seemingly small their part, is woven into the unfolding story of His people.
The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Shallum, the descendants of Bilhah.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is part of a long genealogy that traces the lineage of Israel from Adam all the way to the return from exile. It's detailing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing here on the family of Naphtali. These lists, while seeming dry, are crucial for understanding tribal lands, priestly duties, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people through specific family lines.
Ever feel lost in the crowd, just another name on a long list? The Bible often records genealogies, and this verse is one of them. But these aren't just dusty names from the past.
Names Carried Hope
Genealogies in the Bible are more than just historical records. They are pathways of promise. Each name, like those of Naphtali's descendants here, represents a life, a family, and a place in God's unfolding plan.
God Remembers Every Detail
Even when names seem obscure or forgotten by history, God remembers. He knows each individual, their struggles, and their contributions. This list, though brief, points to God's meticulous care and His faithfulness to His people through the generations.
This verse names Bilhah as the mother or matriarch of this line. What does it mean to be connected to her story?
More Than Just a Matriarch
Bilhah is known from Genesis as Rachel's handmaid who bore children for Jacob. Her story is complex, involving difficult family dynamics. Yet, here, her descendants are listed as part of the strong tribe of Naphtali.
Inclusion in God's Covenant
Being a 'descendant of Bilhah' connects these individuals to the broader covenant promises made to Abraham and his descendants. It shows that God's grace extends beyond typical family lines and includes those who might be considered on the margins. It highlights that heritage matters in God's eyes, not just for the prominent figures, but for everyone within the covenant family.
Ask a follow-up
This passage introduces Naphtali as one of Jacob's grandsons, directly linking to the lineage discussed in 1 Chronicles.
Numbers 26:48-50This census record from the wilderness journey names the same sons of Naphtali, reinforcing their historical significance and family lines.
Joshua 19:32-39This describes the territory allocated to the tribe of Naphtali, showing how these descendants settled and established themselves after entering the Promised Land.
1 Chronicles 12:35This verse mentions skilled warriors from Naphtali who came to David's aid, demonstrating the character and strength of this tribe later in their history.
Even though this verse lists only names, it’s a powerful reminder of how God remembers everyone, even those whose stories aren't explicitly detailed in the grand narratives. The repetition of "sons of" and "descendants of" emphasizes the continuity of God's covenant, extending to every family line. It shows that every individual, no matter how seemingly small their part, is woven into the unfolding story of His people.
This verse is part of a long genealogy that traces the lineage of Israel from Adam all the way to the return from exile. It's detailing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing here on the family of Naphtali. These lists, while seeming dry, are crucial for understanding tribal lands, priestly duties, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people through specific family lines.
This verse is part of a long genealogy that traces the lineage of Israel from Adam all the way to the return from exile. It's detailing the descendants of Jacob's sons, specifically focusing here on the family of Naphtali. These lists, while seeming dry, are crucial for understanding tribal lands, priestly duties, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people through specific family lines.
"The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Shallum, the descendants of Bilhah." — Even though this verse lists only names, it’s a powerful reminder of how God remembers everyone, even those whose stories aren't explicitly detailed in the grand narratives. The repetition of "sons…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026