1 Chronicles 7:14-15
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It's easy to skip over the mention of the "Aramean concubine" and just see the genealogy, but her identity as a foreigner, and specifically an Aramean, is significant. This detail highlights the diverse ethnic makeup of Israel, even within the lineage of a major tribe like Manasseh, and shows God's inclusion extends beyond ethnic boundaries.
The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead. And Machir took a wife for Huppim and for Shuppim. The name of his sister was Maacah. And the name of the second was Zelophehad, and Zelophehad had daughters.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the descendants of Adam through Noah and eventually to the tribes of Israel, specifically highlighting the lineage of Manasseh, son of Joseph. Just before this, the text lists other sons of Manasseh and their descendants, emphasizing their place within the tribal structure. Immediately following, it details the descendants of Ephraim, Manasseh's brother, further solidifying the families' positions and inheritances.
Ever wondered how your family story shapes who you are? This verse drops us into a specific family tree, highlighting how even seemingly minor details can reveal significant truths about God's people.
Tracing the Threads
Genealogies in the Bible aren't just boring lists; they're crucial threads weaving through God's redemptive story. They show God's faithfulness in preserving His people and carrying out His promises through specific individuals and families.
This verse names the descendants of Manasseh, son of Joseph. Notice the specific mention of Manasseh's sons, including one born to an "Aramean concubine." This detail isn't accidental. It shows that God's plan incorporates people from various backgrounds and circumstances, not just the 'ideal' family unit.
What happens when family lines seem 'unclean' or 'foreign' by cultural standards? This verse quietly points to God's ultimate authority, even over complex family situations.
Beyond Human Judgment
The term "Aramean concubine" might raise eyebrows today, as it likely did in ancient times. Concubinage was a complex social structure, and an Aramean origin could suggest a foreign, non-Israelite background.
However, the genealogy includes this lineage. This reveals a profound theological truth: God's sovereign plan is not limited by human social hierarchies, ethnic prejudices, or complicated family dynamics. He works through whomever He chooses to fulfill His purposes.
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The inclusion of Asriel, son of a concubine, through Manasseh, shows that God's covenant blessings and the continuation of His people don't depend solely on purity of bloodline or perfect family structures. God's grace is wider than we often imagine.
Understand the original words
pilegesh · Hebrew Noun
Refers to a woman who was a secondary wife or a woman of lower social status in an ancient Near Eastern household. While distinct from a primary wife, concubines were recognized in the lineage of families, particularly in the patriarchal narratives of Israel.
This genealogy, tracing back to Joseph's son Manasseh, is significant in the post-exilic period when establishing lineage was vital for land inheritance and tribal identity within the restored community.
c. 1800 BC
Abraham's Covenant
God establishes a covenant with Abraham, promising descendants and land. This sets the stage for the formation of the Israelite nation through Abraham's lineage.
c. 1446 BC
The Exodus from Egypt
Moses leads the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. This event marks the birth of Israel as a unified people and their journey towards the Promised Land.
c. 1406 BC
Conquest of Canaan
Under Joshua's leadership, the Israelites conquer and divide the Promised Land. The tribes, including Manasseh (son of Joseph), are allocated territories.
c. 1200-1050 BC
Period of the Judges
A time of tribal confederation and cycles of disobedience, oppression, and deliverance. The genealogies recorded in Chronicles reflect the established tribal structures during this era.
c. 1050 BC
Establishment of the Monarchy
Saul is anointed king, followed by David and Solomon. The united kingdom later splits, solidifying the distinct identities of the tribes and their descendants.
931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
After Solomon's death, the kingdom splits into Israel (North) and Judah (South). The Northern Kingdom of Israel later falls to Assyria.
c. 5th-4th century BC— this verse
Post-Exilic Period and Compilation
After the Babylonian exile, the books of Chronicles are compiled, aiming to provide a theological history and legitimize the post-exilic community. Genealogies, like the one for Manasseh's descendants, are crucial for establishing identity and land rights.
This passage names the same sons of Manasseh, providing a fuller family context from the earlier patriarchal period.
Joshua 17:1-3This shows how the inheritance of Manasseh's descendants, including Machir's family, was determined during the conquest of Canaan.
Judges 5:14This song of Deborah mentions Machir as a prominent family within Manasseh, highlighting their historical significance and leadership.
1 Chronicles 7:1-5This section immediately preceding the verse provides a broader genealogy of Manasseh's sons, emphasizing their numbers and strength in God's eyes.
It's easy to skip over the mention of the "Aramean concubine" and just see the genealogy, but her identity as a foreigner, and specifically an Aramean, is significant. This detail highlights the diverse ethnic makeup of Israel, even within the lineage of a major tribe like Manasseh, and shows God's inclusion extends beyond ethnic boundaries.
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the descendants of Adam through Noah and eventually to the tribes of Israel, specifically highlighting the lineage of Manasseh, son of Joseph. Just before this, the text lists other sons of Manasseh and their descendants, emphasizing their place within the tribal structure. Immediately following, it details the descendants of Ephraim, Manasseh's brother, further solidifying the families' positions and inheritances.
This passage is part of a lengthy genealogy tracing the descendants of Adam through Noah and eventually to the tribes of Israel, specifically highlighting the lineage of Manasseh, son of Joseph. Just before this, the text lists other sons of Manasseh and their descendants, emphasizing their place within the tribal structure. Immediately following, it details the descendants of Ephraim, Manasseh's brother, further solidifying the families' positions and inheritances.
"The sons of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she bore Machir the father of Gilead. And Machir took a wife for Huppim and for Shuppim. The name of his sister was Maacah. And the name of the second was Zelophehad, and Zelop…" — It's easy to skip over the mention of the "Aramean concubine" and just see the genealogy, but her identity as a foreigner, and specifically an Aramean, is significant. This detail highlights the dive…
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Last reviewed October 2026
