Old Testament
1 Chronicles 12:40
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a vibrant scene where people from nearby regions, including Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali, come together to support their community.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
People from the surrounding area — as far away as Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali — brought bread and meat on donkeys, camels, mules, and oxen, along with flour, fig cakes, clusters of raisins, wine, oil, cattle, and sheep in large quantities. For there was joy in Israel.
Moreover they that were nigh them, even unto Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, and meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly: for there was joy in Israel.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a vibrant scene where people from nearby regions, including Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali, come together to support their community. They bring a variety of food supplies, such as bread, meat, and fruits, carried on different animals like donkeys and camels. This act of generosity shows their commitment to one another and their shared joy. The abundance of offerings reflects a time of celebration and unity among the people of Israel. It highlights the importance of community support during significant moments. The joy mentioned is not just personal; it resonates throughout the entire nation, indicating a collective spirit of happiness and togetherness. This gathering symbolizes how shared resources can strengthen bonds and foster a sense of belonging. Ultimately, it reminds us that joy is often found in community and generosity, where everyone contributes to the well-being of others, creating a rich tapestry of support and celebration in life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 12:40 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community, whether through sharing resources or offering support to those in need. Small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of joy and connection. Remember, togetherness enhances our experiences and strengthens our bonds with one another, fostering a happier environment for all involved.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 12:40 teach about community support?
1 Chronicles 12:40 illustrates the importance of community support by showing how people from various regions came together to contribute food and resources. This act of generosity highlights the strength found in unity and the collective joy that arises when individuals support one another during significant times.
What types of food were brought in 1 Chronicles 12:40?
In 1 Chronicles 12:40, the people brought a variety of food items including bread, meat, flour, fig cakes, clusters of raisins, wine, oil, cattle, and sheep. This diverse array of offerings signifies not only their generosity but also the abundance and celebration within the community.
Why is joy mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:40?
Joy is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:40 to emphasize the positive atmosphere created by the community's gathering and support. The collective contributions and shared resources foster a sense of happiness and unity among the people of Israel, reflecting the joy that comes from togetherness and generosity.
How can we apply the message of 1 Chronicles 12:40 today?
We can apply the message of 1 Chronicles 12:40 by actively participating in our communities, whether through sharing resources, volunteering, or supporting those in need. Small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, enhancing connections and fostering a sense of belonging, much like the joy experienced by the people of Israel.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
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